Did that trip to Iceland evade you again this winter? Didn’t manage to swish off slopeside to your favourite ski resort? Maybe you missed that visit to Sweden’s Jukkasjärvi Ice hotel too? Chill-ax, we’ve got the next best thing right here in town with our choice of date venues that are guaranteed to ‘break the ice….’
So, put on your best woolly hat, gloves and snuggle up to your date as you make your very own ‘Frozen’ fairytale….
Ever wanted to live in an igloo? Well, London’s Ice Bar might be the closest you’ll get! Here the walls, bar, tables and even your own personal glass are made from crystal clear Torne River ice harvested from the pristine winter wonderland of Jukkasjärvi in Northern Sweden. Located off Regent Street on Heddon Street, the bar is pretty central and there are always plenty of events on. You’ll be allocated a time slot and cool cape for the occasion. The current theme is ‘Food Glorious Food’, with a pop-up food truck cocktail bar, among other delights. Enjoy!
This indoors ice-climbing wall is located in Covent Garden’s Ellis Brightman Tower House shop. If you’ve ever felt the need to embrace your inner Scott or Shackleton, here’s your chance. Expert instructors will teach you how to scale the icy 8-metre wall using all the latest ice picks and equipment and beginners are welcome. From a pleasant ascent to a drastic overhang, there are plenty of routes to enjoy.
Ally Pally hosts one of the most active ice hockey clubs, with the home team The Haringey Racers playing and competing regularly on the international-sized ice rink during hockey season. If you’re feeling brave or have made a New Year’s Resolution to try new things, the rink has some evening sessions available for ice hockey training.
Not strictly in London, The Snow centre is the nearest you’ll get to the white stuff and is just a short half hour train journey away in Hemel Hempstead. Whether you’re a seasoned pro looking to show off your skills to a date, a pair of beginners looking to take the plunge together or just fancy some sledging then this is the place to come. There are ski-ing and snowboarding lessons for all levels and private options for you and a date. After your session on the slopes, visit the Schuss bar for some refreshment on the slopes or off them, there’s an alpine-themed Lodge Bar and Kitchen too.
Have you ever ‘broken the ice’ at any of these venues? Tell us @lovestruck
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