If you're a novice ice skater, the hardest thing about skating is not so much staying on your feet, but
getting back up once you've landed on your backside. You can be there for what seems like an eternity as you slip and slide about, desperately trying to cling on to something, anything, like a panicking non-swimmer who's suddenly found they're out of their depth. So, best grab some skates and get practising.
There'll be a few places in London laying down the ice this winter, but few with surroundings as idyllic as those of
Somerset House, located on the Strand.
Those slippery on their feet can join the Skate School being put on by the ice rink's organisers. Lessons are tailored for all ages and abilities and are designed to build your confidence and improve technique.
Hopefully they'll tell you the trick of how to get up after tumbling over, too. Click
here to find out more about lessons and courses.
If you're around during lunchtimes on weekdays and feeling energetic, then you might want to take part in the Big Ice Dance Lunchtime Workouts. Dancers from the English National Ballet will be there to help you through a 20-minute workout to the wonderful music of George Gershwin. Information about times and tickets can be found
here.
Of course, you might want to simply skate with friends and family, or by yourself, instead of joining some special event. Well, you're in luck, because there'll be plenty of opportunities to do so. Session times start at ten in the morning and last an hour each, with the final one taking to the ice at 10.30pm. Full information
here.
For clubbers who like it slippery, there'll be some special nights laid on at the rink where the likes of the Ministry of Sound will be taking over the soundtrack and lightshow, guaranteeing a fabulous night out for all (just go easy on the mulled wine). The clubbing events will be taking place mostly on Friday and Saturday nights, though a few other evening will also be hosting DJs. Find out more
here.
Special storytelling events beside the giant Christmas tree have been laid on for children, too.
The setting for the ice rink is very special. Somerset House, which backs onto the Thames, was mostly built at the end of the 18th century and has been used for a wide variety of purposes over the years.
Today it's mainly used as a centre for the visual arts and puts on a number of art exhibitions throughout the year. In the winter, the courtyard of Somerset House becomes the venue for the ice rink, while in the warmer months it's often used for live music performances or
outdoor cinema events.
Images: Somerset House
