When it comes to the perfect Christmas experience, a certain scene comes to mind. It will usually include one or all of the following; Firstly, whether it be Mariah Carey’s classic or a Michael Bublé rendition, there will be one of those instantly recognisable songs playing in the background to fill you with a warm nostalgia. Next, there will be steaming mulled beverages and an unmistakable aroma of spices coming from a wooden bar. There will almost always be couples and friends whirling round an ice rink, and depending on the hour, some families may join them. Finally, the surrounding setting will be a cosy, cheerful environment, radiating with sparkling lights, golden baubles, and laughter.
If this sounds like a checklist of your idyllic festive evening, head down to Skylight Tobacco Dock, where you will find not one, but all of these wonderful features and more. As can be expected from Europe’s only real-ice rooftop ice rink, this truly is a winter experience like no other.
Upon entry, you will be greeted with a Winter Moscow Mule cocktail, composed of a tangy ginger beer and a delicious concoction of warm spices. This will be sure to ignite your taste buds in preparation for some of the wonderful cocktails on offer at the sheltered Après Skate Bar, ranging from spicy Picantes to Espresso Martini awakeners.
Should you want a more festive brew, mulled wine and boozy hot chocolate are just two options from the selection of winter warmers to choose from. As you sip on your beverage of choice, you will be transported to a cosy mountain retreat with the low-lit, wooden benches surrounded by illuminated fir trees.
If the cold is a concern, you’ll be pleased to know there are heated igloos on offer. With city-scape views as far as the eye can see, the brand-new Igloo Village on the mezzanine is built to protect you and your nearest and dearest whatever London’s winter has in store, even offering UV protection!
Nestled into these snug escapes, you can sip and nibble away in a state of festive bliss, all whilst enjoying the awe-inspiring views of the city’s twinkling lights. Think of it as being in your very own snow globe! These luxury igloos that house ten people come embellished with faux-fur rugs and thick blankets, with full table service for those Alpine-inspired dishes and drinks. For those who plan to immerse themselves in the festive spirit with a bigger group, the mezzanine is also home to heated Alpine Huts, which hosts up to 14 guests.
Finally, before you get too comfortable, make sure to immerse yourself into the true spirit of the season. And what better way than parking your ego and lacing up your skates? After a few laps around Europe’s only real ice rooftop ice rink, you’ll find your inner child has been unleashed, whether you’re a seasoned pro or prefer the security of the railing. Plus, you can enjoy the silky ice under glimmering lights of the city for just £15 per 45-minute session. Meanwhile, resident DJs will be soundtracking the party season from Thursday to Saturday, whilst Sunday afternoons promise a special package for families, specifically designed for the little ones who are brave enough to take to the ice.
After all of the action and activity, you may reach a stage where your body is craving some delicious fuel. For a true festive feed, we would strongly recommend trying the option that’s brand new to this year’s Skylight Tobacco Dock- The Raclette Menu. Expect gooey melted cheese slathered onto a jacket potato, served with Wiltshire ham, salami and pickles. Whether you’re on the market for some light finger food or more of a dinner affair, from burgers to bao buns, there are options to suit every diet and satisfy whatever strength of appetite you’ve worked up.
It’s time to bid farewell to what was once Tobacco Skylight’s sunlit terraces. Instead, prepare to enter a twinkling urban igloo village filled with pergolas and festive decor, along with an après ski lodge and skating in the sky. Be it an overdue catch-up with friends or a special, intimate date, the Skylight Tobacco Dock is just 5 minutes from Bank Station and offers something for everyone. Take it from us, this is a must-visit this festive season!
