Canary Wharf Ice Rink

One cold evening my flatmate Emily and I decided to go Iceskating. After a little research we found out the Canary Wharf Ice Rink is only 11 pounds for students. So off we went to get into the Christmas mood. 

Iceskating in England is different from Iceskating in Europe in the sense that you pay for a “session” which is usually an hour long, and you have to get off the ice and return the rental skates after your session. We planned well, so we arrived 20 minutes before our session, put our bags in lockers, and exchanged our shoes for skates. I tend to get used to the ice more if I listen to some My Chemical Romance, so I put on Three Cheers for Sweet Revenge and off I went on to the ice. 

Over the course of the hour, I only fell over twice. Emily managed to never fall over. It was nice to skate outside and see all the Christmas lights. I love iceskating because its a work out without being too sporty, almost everyone can skate a little. 

It was really nice to see the mix of people skating and since it was a Monday night it wasn't too crowded so you could skate which ever direction you wanted. Overall, I loved it, it was probably my best skating experience in the UK. Its a great place to go after work for a bit, and there are bars right next to it, so you can get a drink to warm you up after. 

Here’s the rink’s website: http://www.icerinkcanarywharf.co.uk/

(TimeOut.com has also featured all the other open-air rinks that have been set up around London)

Paramount

If you’re looking to have a drink with a view and you can’t afford the Shard, the next best option is Paramount bar and club. You need to call to make a reservation, but after that you don’t even have to worry about being on time. The building where you find Paramount is called Centre Point, and the closest station is Tottenham Court Road. Upon arrival, you walk up the stairs and talk to the reception, they then take you up to the 33rd floor where you will find the bar. 

This isn't just an ordinary bar, its a bar with an amazing view. I like to go there around Christmas time because they’ve already set up all the lights so there’s even more to see. The drinks aren't cheap, but with a view like that it’s worth it. Also, their wine glasses are bigger than in most places around London. The staff is incredibly polite, and they know exactly when to approach you and when to leave you alone. That to me is very important I need to read the whole wine list before choosing one, and I hate being rushed.

After making your order, walk around the bar, since all the exterior walls are made of glass you can see London from every direction. Last time I went I spent hours just awing at the view. I never expected to see that much of London especially since somehow its always grey here. Overall, if you want to treat yourself to a good drink and a nice evening I strongly recommend Paramount. Where else can you go to see all the Christmas lights? 

Here’s their website: http://www.paramount.uk.net/