Ice skating season officially started last night with the launch of Skate at Somerset House – the coolest rink in the country
Having taken ice skating lessons as a kid and hung out at the Dancing On Ice rink a couple of times (for work, not D-list celeb-stalking, ok?), I’ve had, what I can only describe as, ice skating delusions of grandeur. I got my comeuppance last year, when I fell over andbroke my knee (whilst on a date, doh), and spent the next two months on crutches. So it was with trepidation that I headed to Skate at Somerset House last night – but if anything was going to ease me back onto the ice, it was their VIP launch party…
From fashion to film and TV, there’s always a great celebrity turn out at Somerset House and last night was no different. I got slightly overexcited when I spotted Jeremy Irvine on the ice (with a bunch of hipster mates who made me feel about 50). If you’re not familiar with him, go and see Great Expectations when it opens later this month – I think you’ll agree I did well to not fall on my arse. Very distracting! Designer Gareth Pugh was also whizzing around, Romola Garai was there, but my top winter chic spot? Parisian chef Rachel Khoo looking all wrapped up and super cute. Who knew?
It was all very star-studded, gorgeously Christmasy and, I’m pleased to report, accident-free. Following the live jazz quartet who played at the opening drinks reception, DJ Dan Lywood (who played at Madonna’s Christmas party) took to the desks. So the party animals were happy, and with locally sourced nibbles by Michelin-starred chef Tom Aikens(think pulled pork baps and mince pies) the foodies were too.
It may be only mid-November, but I am officially feeling festive and can’t wait to go back. And, open until 6 January, there’s going to be plenty of opportunities. Break a leg! (no, don't really…) www.somersethouse.org.uk/ice-rink