Where to take a skater

Skating in town has become really popular over the last few years which is all very well if you're called Jane Torvil. The rest of us however may need a bit of Dutch courage beforehand or a strong snifter after to recover. Here's some handy places to get that all-important drink.

One Aldwych 1 Aldwych, WC2 (020-7300 1000).

With Somerset House's ice rink only open until Sun 25 Jan (closed Christmas Day), it's time to get your skates on and head for this wonderful outdoor space (call 020-7845 4670 for times and prices).

It's so popular you're strongly advised to book. Complete your romantic sortie with an excellent cocktail in the lobby of this hotel and you'll have the perfect Christmas day out.

Corney & Barrow 19 Broadgate Circle, EC2 (020-7628 1251).

From now until April, Broadgate Circle will be under ice for skaters (visit www.broadgateestates.co.uk for details). The Corney & Barrow wine bar overlooking the rink is one of the most happening bars in the City, has an excellent wine list and a seriously good snack menu.

White Hart Hotel 1 High Street, Hampton Wick, Kingston-Upon-Thames, Surrey (020-8977 1786).

Until Sun 18 Jan, the Hampton Court skating rink (www.hamptoncourticerink.com) is open for its first-ever season and offers skating sessions for £8.50 including skate hire (bookable through Ticketmaster, 0870 060 1778). Then repair to this Fuller's pub, restaurant and hotel close to the river for a pint of one of their excellent cask ales or bottled beers.

Bar Med The Holland Tringham North Block, 5 Chicheley Street, SE1 (020-7803 4790).

On the opposite side of the river to Somerset House is the new rink on the London Aquarium roof terrace, open until Sun 4 Jan. As skating beneath the London Eye must be one of the most romantic things to do this Christmas, you'll need to book in advance through Ticketweb (www.ticketweb.co.uk). Bar Med, close to the London Eye and in the County Hall complex, is a place favoured by young-at-heart folk who want to get into the party spirit.

The Holland Tringham 107-109 Streatham High Road, SW16 (020-8769 3062).

Streatham Ice Rink is open all year for skating sessions and evening discos (www.streathamicearena.co.uk). The Holland Tringham is a large, spacious pub operated by the J.D. Wetherspoon group. Expect cheap drinks and a good supply of cask ales.