London's popular pop-up ice rink at Canary Wharf will sit out the 2026/27 winter season, organisers announced, ending a 20-year run that began in 2005.
The Ice Rink Canary Wharf, a temporary 1,200-square-metre venue on the Isle of Dogs, usually opens for 18 weeks from October to late February, drawing thousands of winter-sport enthusiasts.
In a statement posted on its website, the event chiefs said: "After many wonderful seasons at Canary Wharf, we have made the decision to take a break for the 2026 winter season and the rink will not be operating this year. We would like to sincerely thank all of our customers, partners, sponsors and supporters who have visited and supported the rink over the years. It has been an absolute privilege to be part of so many of your festive memories."
While the organisers did not explain the cancellation, they added they hope to return in the future and thanked visitors for their understanding.
The decision follows the scrapping of Edinburgh's George Street ice rink and Brighton's Royal Pavilion ice rink earlier this year.
Since its launch, the rink has offered free skating lessons to hundreds of local school children and has been housed in a temporary structure outside One Canada Square, featuring a bar, fairy-light décor and DJ-led themed nights.
When the rink was dismantled in February 2026, a social-media post read: "We can't wait to see you again next season...but for now, that's a wrap."
Londoners can still find seasonal skating elsewhere: Somerset House will host a pop-up rink from November 11 with Aperol Spritz sponsorship, Glide at Battersea Power Station opens on November 6 with a 30-ft Christmas tree, and the Queen's House Ice Rink in Greenwich starts on November 18 offering views of the historic building and hot drinks at the Zero Degrees restaurant.
