If you’re in London and looking for some exciting places to go roller skating, you’re in luck! London is home to some of the best roller skating spots that offer a perfect blend of thrilling paths, stunning views, and vibrant atmospheres. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced skater, these cool spots in London will surely satisfy your roller skating cravings. So, lace up your skates and get ready to explore the city on wheels!
Outdoor Roller Skating Spots
Hyde Park
Hyde Park is a fantastic outdoor space in London that offers a beautiful setting for roller skating. With its wide pathways and smooth pavement, it’s the perfect spot to glide along on your skates. The park is also known for its stunning scenery, with lush greenery, serene lakes, and iconic landmarks like the Serpentine lake. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned skater, Hyde Park guarantees a delightful skating experience.
Victoria Park
Located in the heart of East London, Victoria Park is another great outdoor roller skating spot. The park features well-maintained paths and a flat surface, ideal for practicing your skating skills. Victoria Park also offers a peaceful atmosphere, making it an excellent choice for a leisurely skate. As you glide through the park, you’ll pass by vibrant flower gardens, picturesque lakes, and charming cafes where you can take a break and soak in the beauty of the surroundings.
Richmond Park
Richmond Park is a sprawling green oasis that provides a wonderful outdoor roller skating experience. The park boasts wide, smooth roads that are perfect for a thrilling skate. As you explore this vast expanse, you’ll encounter breathtaking views of lush meadows, ancient woodlands, and even herds of deer roaming freely. Richmond Park is an ideal destination for skaters who enjoy a blend of nature and adrenaline-inducing rides.
Battersea Park
If you’re looking for a versatile outdoor roller skating spot, Battersea Park is a must-visit. This picturesque park offers a combination of smooth paths for skating and scenic areas to enjoy a relaxing break. With its tranquil riverside location, beautiful gardens, and iconic attractions like the Peace Pagoda, Battersea Park provides an enriching skating experience. Whether you choose to skate along the river or explore the park’s hidden corners, Battersea Park is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories.
Indoor Roller Skating Rinks
Roller Nation
Roller Nation is one of the top indoor roller skating rinks in London, providing a vibrant and energetic atmosphere for skaters of all levels. The rink features a polished wooden floor that offers excellent traction and a smooth glide. With its disco-style lighting, pumping music, and friendly staff, Roller Nation guarantees a fun-filled roller skating experience. They also offer skating lessons and host special events, making it a go-to spot for roller skating enthusiasts.
VauxWall
VauxWall is a unique indoor roller skating venue that combines skating with rock climbing. This innovative concept allows you to switch between scaling walls and gliding on skates, providing a thrilling and adventurous experience. VauxWall features a spacious rink with a smooth surface, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable skating session. Whether you’re a climbing enthusiast looking to try roller skating or a roller skater seeking a new challenge, VauxWall offers a one-of-a-kind adventure.
Rollerworld
Located in Colchester on the outskirts of London, Rollerworld is worth the short journey for an exceptional roller skating experience. This enormous indoor rink boasts a whopping 36,000 square feet of skating space, making it one of the largest rinks in Europe. Rollerworld offers a smooth, polished floor and state-of-the-art lighting and sound systems, creating an electrifying atmosphere. From traditional roller disco nights to roller hockey events, Rollerworld has something for everyone.
Better Extreme
Better Extreme is a popular chain of indoor roller skating venues, with several locations across London. Their rinks are well-maintained and offer a range of facilities to cater to different skating styles. Better Extreme focuses on providing a safe and inclusive environment for skaters of all ages and skill levels. Whether you’re a beginner looking for a supportive atmosphere or an experienced skater looking to showcase your skills, Better Extreme has you covered.
Rainbow Roller Rink
Rainbow Roller Rink is a colorful and lively indoor venue that caters to the roller skating community in London. With its vibrant decor and disco lights, the rink creates a festive atmosphere that will undoubtedly put you in the mood to skate. Rainbow Roller Rink hosts regular roller disco events, where skaters can groove to the latest hits while showing off their moves on wheels. The rink also offers skate hire and refreshments, making it a convenient and enjoyable option for roller skating enthusiasts.
Historical Roller Skating Venues
Alexandra Palace
Alexandra Palace, also known as Ally Pally, is a historical landmark that has seen its fair share of roller skating history. This iconic venue in North London has hosted numerous roller skating events throughout the years, attracting skaters from all over the city. Although roller skating is not a regular activity at Alexandra Palace, it occasionally hosts special roller disco nights and events. If you’re lucky enough to catch one of these events, you’ll get to experience the unique blend of history and roller skating at this historic venue.
Crystal Palace
Crystal Palace, located in South London, is another historical site with a roller skating legacy. The Crystal Palace Skating Rink, which was originally built in 1890, played a significant role in the early development of roller skating in the UK. Although the original rink no longer exists, Crystal Palace Park offers ample space for outdoor roller skating. As you glide through the park, you can imagine the excitement and energy that once filled the air during the golden age of roller skating.
Serpentine Galleries
While primarily known for its art exhibitions and stunning architecture, the Serpentine Galleries in Hyde Park have also embraced roller skating in their venues. The galleries occasionally host roller disco events, giving visitors a unique opportunity to experience art, music, and roller skating all in one place. So if you’re a roller skating enthusiast with an appreciation for contemporary art, keep an eye on the Serpentine Galleries’ event calendar for roller disco nights.
River Thames Roller Skating
South Bank Skate Park
Located along the picturesque South Bank of the River Thames, the South Bank Skate Park is a haven for roller skaters. This outdoor skate park offers a range of ramps, rails, and obstacles suitable for both skateboarding and roller skating. With the iconic backdrop of the London Eye and the city skyline, the South Bank Skate Park provides a thrilling and dynamic roller skating experience. Whether you’re a freestyle skater looking to practice tricks or just want to enjoy a scenic riverside skate, this park is not to be missed.
Primrose Hill
Primrose Hill is a charming park situated near Regent’s Park and offers a unique roller skating experience with its hilly terrain. While it may not be the most traditional roller skating spot, the gentle slopes of Primrose Hill allow you to glide effortlessly and enjoy the surrounding natural beauty. As you make your way up the hill, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the London skyline. Roller skating at Primrose Hill is a refreshing change of pace, combining the joy of skating with the tranquility of nature.
Parks with Roller Skating Facilities
Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park
Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, built for the 2012 Summer Olympics, is not only a symbol of sporting excellence but also a prime location for roller skating enthusiasts. The park offers a designated roller skate lane that meanders through its expansive grounds, providing an excellent opportunity for skaters to showcase their skills. With its modern facilities, beautiful landscaping, and iconic Olympic venues, Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park delivers a memorable roller skating experience.
Mile End Park
Mile End Park is a vibrant green space in East London, offering a range of recreational activities, including roller skating. The park features a dedicated roller skate circuit that loops around its picturesque lake, allowing skaters to enjoy a scenic and serene skate. The well-paved paths and peaceful surroundings make Mile End Park an excellent option for both beginners and experienced skaters who want to enjoy a leisurely skate in a tranquil setting.
Skateboarding Parks Suitable for Roller Skating
Cantelowes Skate Park
Cantelowes Skate Park, located in Camden, is a popular destination among skateboarders and roller skaters alike. This skate park offers various features, including ramps, bowls, and rails, making it suitable for different skating styles. Roller skaters can enjoy the park’s smooth concrete surface and the opportunity to showcase their skills alongside skateboarders. Cantelowes Skate Park is the perfect place to challenge yourself, learn new tricks, and immerse yourself in the vibrant skate culture of London.
BaySixty6 Skate Park
BaySixty6, located in West London, is a renowned skate park that welcomes roller skaters seeking an adrenaline rush. This skate park boasts an array of ramps, stairs, and rails, providing endless possibilities for roller skaters to push their limits. Whether you’re a street skater or a freestyle enthusiast, BaySixty6 offers an exciting and dynamic environment to hone your roller skating skills. With its state-of-the-art facilities and a vibrant skate community, BaySixty6 is a must-visit for roller skaters looking for a thrilling experience.
Night-Time Roller Skating
Friday Night Skate
Friday Night Skate is a long-standing tradition in London, bringing together roller skaters for an exhilarating nighttime skate through the city’s streets. Led by experienced marshals, this weekly event offers skaters the chance to explore the city while enjoying the camaraderie of fellow skaters. Friday Night Skate follows a different route each week, taking participants on a thrilling journey through the vibrant streets of London. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced skater, Friday Night Skate is a fantastic way to experience the city like never before.
Sunday Stroll
Sunday Stroll, similar to Friday Night Skate, is a leisurely roller skating event that takes place every Sunday. As the name suggests, Sunday Stroll offers a more relaxed pace, allowing skaters to soak in the beauty of London’s streets at a more leisurely tempo. The event is open to everyone, regardless of skating ability, making it a welcoming and inclusive experience for all. Whether you prefer the excitement of Friday Night Skate or the laid-back vibes of Sunday Stroll, both events offer unique opportunities to explore London on wheels.
Skate Shops and Venues for Roller Skating Supplies
Slick Willie’s Skate Store
Slick Willie’s Skate Store is a well-established skate shop in London, catering to the needs of roller skaters, skateboarders, and other action sports enthusiasts. With a wide range of roller skates, protective gear, and accessories, Slick Willie’s is a go-to destination for sourcing quality skating equipment. The store also offers expert advice from knowledgeable staff, ensuring that you find the right gear to suit your skating style and preferences.
RollerLoaded Skates
RollerLoaded Skates is a specialized roller skate shop located in London, dedicated to providing a wide selection of roller skates for all ages and skill levels. Whether you’re a recreational skater, a derby enthusiast, or a dance skater, RollerLoaded Skates has a range of models and styles to meet your specific needs. Their knowledgeable staff can assist you in finding the perfect pair of skates and offer advice on maintenance and customization.
The Brick Lane Rollershop
Located in the eclectic Brick Lane area, The Brick Lane Rollershop is a unique roller skate store that embraces the vibrant culture of roller skating. This shop showcases a curated selection of roller skates, from vintage designs to modern, stylish options. The Brick Lane Rollershop also offers customization services, allowing you to personalize your skates and make a statement on the rink. Whether you’re a dedicated skater or simply looking for a fashionable pair of roller skates, The Brick Lane Rollershop has you covered.
Skate Dance Classes and Roller Discos in London
Skate Dance Studios
Skate Dance Studios in East London is dedicated to combining the art of dance with roller skating. They offer a range of classes suitable for all ages and skill levels, covering various dance styles, from salsa to hip-hop. Whether you’re a beginner looking to learn the basics or an experienced skater seeking to refine your dance skills, Skate Dance Studios provides a supportive and inclusive environment. Joining their classes is a great way to meet like-minded individuals and embrace the joy of roller skating through dance.
Pineapple Dance Studios
Pineapple Dance Studios, located in Covent Garden, is a renowned dance studio that offers roller skate dance classes. These classes focus on teaching choreography specifically designed for roller skates, allowing you to combine your love for dance with your passion for roller skating. The experienced instructors at Pineapple Dance Studios guide you through various dance techniques and routines, helping you develop your skills and confidence on skates. If you’re looking to take your roller skating to the next level and express yourself through dance, Pineapple Dance Studios is the place to be.
Roller Disco at Vauxhall
Vauxhall Roller Disco is a popular roller disco event held at The Lightbox, a vibrant nightclub in Vauxhall. Every Wednesday, skaters gather to roller skate to the beat of disco and dance music under the colorful lights of the venue. The event offers a lively and energetic atmosphere, with DJs spinning upbeat tunes and a crowd of enthusiastic skaters showing off their moves. Whether you’re a seasoned skater or a complete beginner, the Roller Disco at Vauxhall promises a night of fun, laughter, and plenty of great music.
Events and Festivals for Roller Skating Enthusiasts
London Skate Night
London Skate Night is a recurring event that takes place on Friday evenings across various locations in the city. Skaters gather in a designated meeting point and embark on a guided skate tour, exploring different parts of London while surrounded by a lively and supportive community. London Skate Night is suitable for skaters of all levels, with different routes available to cater to different skill sets. Whether you’re a beginner looking to build confidence or an experienced skater seeking a new adventure, London Skate Night offers a fantastic opportunity to discover London on wheels.
Roller Skate Jam
Roller Skate Jam is an annual event that brings together roller skating enthusiasts for a day filled with skating, music, and fun. This festival-style event features live DJ performances, roller skating workshops, and thrilling showcases by professional skaters. Roller Skate Jam is a celebration of the vibrant roller skating community in London, providing a platform for skaters to showcase their skills and enjoy the camaraderie of fellow enthusiasts. Whether you’re a participant or a spectator, Roller Skate Jam guarantees an exciting and unforgettable roller skating experience.
London Roller Marathon
The London Roller Marathon is an annual event that attracts roller skaters from around the world. Skaters of all levels gather to participate in competitive races, ranging from short sprints to full marathon distances. The event provides a thrilling and adrenaline-pumping experience, as skaters navigate through the streets of London, cheered on by spectators and fellow participants. Whether you’re a professional skater looking to challenge yourself or a recreational skater seeking a competitive edge, the London Roller Marathon offers a unique and exhilarating roller skating adventure.
In conclusion, London offers a plethora of diverse and exciting roller skating spots for skaters of all levels. From picturesque outdoor locations and historical venues to thrilling skate parks and vibrant indoor rinks, there is something for everyone in this bustling city. Whether you prefer leisurely glides through scenic parks or adrenaline-fueled tricks at skate parks, London’s roller skating scene is sure to capture your heart. So grab your skates and explore the best roller skating spots that London has to offer!
