Photo of Somerset House in Greater London1 / 3
Skating

Somerset House

📍 London, Greater London

4.4(1,850 Google reviews)

Grade I listed building in central London with a large courtyard ice rink open seasonally, rotating art and cultural exhibitions, and multiple on-site dining options including Poon's Chinese restaurant and Café Petiole.

Seasonal ice rinkHistoric courtyardArt exhibitionsCentral LondonPram accessibleEvening atmosphere
★★★★★Featured review by Adis K.

Visited Somerset House in Aldwych recently and it truly delivers on atmosphere and experience. The setting alone is stunning, a beautiful historic courtyard right in central London, perfect for a relaxed walk and taking in the architecture. We went in the evening for iftar at Aram, which was a great choice. The ambience was warm and welcoming, and it felt special being there as the courtyard lit up after sunset. Beyond dining, the exhibitions are always thoughtfully curated and worth seeing. It's one of those places where you can combine culture, food, and a peaceful stroll all in one visit. A fantastic London spot great for relaxing, exploring, and soaking up a bit of art and history all together.

🏆 Family Action Verdict

Best for families visiting during the winter skating season, when the floodlit historic courtyard is at its most distinctive. Outside skating season, the value depends on which exhibitions are running — check in advance, as some visits find most rooms closed.

ℹ️ What to Know Before You Go

💡Check which exhibitions are open before visiting — room closures significantly reduce what's accessible
Book skating tickets toward the end of the seasonal run for smaller crowds
🎟️Evening skating sessions deliver the most atmospheric experience in the floodlit courtyard
🚗Kiosks sell drinks and snacks rinkside during skating season; a cafe is available year-round

💬 What Families Are Saying

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4.4

1,850 Google reviews

Stunning historic setting and atmosphere45%
Ice rink experience30%
Exhibitions and cultural events15%
Food and drink options10%
A

Adis K.

a month ago

Visited Somerset House in Aldwych recently and it truly delivers on atmosphere and experience. The setting alone is stunning, a beautiful historic courtyard right in central London, perfect for a relaxed walk and taking in the architecture. We went in the evening for iftar at Aram, which was a great choice. The ambience was warm and welcoming, and it felt special being there as the courtyard lit up after sunset. Beyond dining, the exhibitions are always thoughtfully curated and worth seeing. It's one of those places where you can combine culture, food, and a peaceful stroll all in one visit. A fantastic London spot great for relaxing, exploring, and soaking up a bit of art and history all together.

L

Louise Louise

a month ago

It was an exhibition with several works I wanted to buy for the first time in a while. The curators in charge of each piece explained the artworks very enthusiastically, and it felt more lively than most exhibitions. There were quite a few pieces with unique and interesting ideas or materials, so if you are interested, I would recommend visiting before it closes this weekend.

I

iva tania

2 months ago

Skate here was genuinely amazing with the great vibes and ambience. The staffs are very friendly and helpful. Kids friendly with many facilities and affordable services. Get your lower price tickets near the end of the season! and it’s even not too crowded. They managed it well 👍🏻 thanks

C

Christine

3 months ago

Visited Somerset House to check out the ice rink (just as a spectator), and it was really lovely. The rink is large and beautifully set up, making it perfect for the festive season even if you’re not skating. There are kiosks around selling drinks, cookies, and other treats, plus a café nearby if you want to sit and warm up. A very apt and enjoyable winter visit.

Reviews from Google

Overview

Somerset House is a Grade I listed building on the Strand with a large open courtyard that hosts an ice rink seasonally. Year-round programming includes rotating art exhibitions, cultural installations, and events. The building is pram-accessible throughout. Kiosks operate around the rink during skating season. Multiple dining options on site. Located in central London with strong transport links.

🕐 Opening Hours

Monday10:00 – 19:00
Tuesday10:00 – 19:00
Wednesday10:00 – 19:00
Thursday10:00 – 19:00
Friday10:00 – 19:00
Saturday10:00 – 19:00
Sunday10:00 – 19:00

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