Canary Wharf Ice Rink

Canary Wharf feels a weirdly corporate place to have something as carefree as an ice rink. It's not a beautiful setting like Somerset House or the Natural History Museum; nor is it surrounded by the buzz of busy museums and child-friendly cafes. But it does have a charm of its own, with the soaring towers and their blinking lights that feel like an extension of the Christmas light-festooned trees strewn around the ice.

Best of all is the ice rink itself. As well as a large arena for expert skaters to whiz about on, there's a channel of ice that runs through a glittering canopy of trees, which is perfect for novices as it offers a barrier to hold onto as you find your feet. It's also an exciting extra bit of ice to dart down if you're a seasoned skater. New this year is also a children's skating area, so your little ones can learn and have fun in a safer environment. Luckily the whole rink is protected from any potential British weather woes by a clear roof that won't distract from the skyscraper view.

The cafe/restaurant space wouldn't win any Michelin stars, but bankers in search of Christmas cocktails won't be disappointed. The chips and hot dogs are perfect for the kids and naturally it's close by, so you don't have to get cold looking for somewhere to eat.

For those Londoners who won't be travelling to Canada this Christmas season to skate on the largest ice rink in the world, family friendly fun can be found just around the Canada Wharf corner.