The launch of the Winter Village ice rink at Westfield was a dazzling evening of live music, delicious food, and incredible entertainment.

I went along with my partner to the launch on Wednesday, November 23, for an evening of festive fun and some shaky ice skating, and we were certainly not disappointed.

With the bright lights, towering Christmas tree and jolly music it was everything we needed to feel the festive spirit.

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The Resident: The Winter Village ice rink at WestfieldThe Winter Village ice rink at Westfield (Image: Emma Fradgley)

The ice rink is a stone’s throw from Wood Lane, right outside of Westfield shopping centre making it extremely easy to spot and access.

It felt like the organisers had thought of everything  - there was live music, a hot chocolate bar and even a professional ice skater made an appearance.

The Resident: The hot chocolate bar at the launch of Westfield's Winter Village ice rinkThe hot chocolate bar at the launch of Westfield's Winter Village ice rink (Image: Emma Fradgley)

The rink is surrounded by bright lights and with the enormous Christmas tree at its centre - the experience really does whisk you away for a few hours, while you feel the full effect of the stunning, festive lights and immersive Christmas experience.

The Winter Village also supplies penguins for an additional £5 for children who need a companion on the ice.

Professional ice skater, Tiepy Packard, performed at the launch, wow-ing audience members with her talent and twirls.

The Resident: Tiepy Packard: A professional ice skater who performed at the opening of Westfield's Winter Village and ice rinkTiepy Packard: A professional ice skater who performed at the opening of Westfield's Winter Village and ice rink (Image: Emma Fradgley)

Children on the ice looked up at her in awe as she drifted effortlessly across the rink, twisting and turning with absolute ease.

A group of gospel singers filled the air with festive joy as they performed through the evening, putting smiles on skaters’ faces as they whizzed - or stumbled - past.

Their renditions of happy, upbeat numbers brought a special touch of atmosphere to the launch.

In addition to the rink itself, organisers of the launch spoiled attendees with food, drinks and a DJ indoors for anyone who fancied a quick break from the ice.

The hot chocolate bar proved a hit with kids, giving them the chance to shower their drink with marshmallows, crushed Oreos and sprinkles, meanwhile their parents could add in some baileys or disaronno amaretto.

Also at the bar was a variety of wines for guests to enjoy in the warmth of the village.

Waiters brought festive food around for guests to eat as the evening wore on, including sliders in a variety of flavours, chestnut stew and minced pies.

While the food, drinks and live music were in place for the special occasion of the launch, the atmosphere of the ice rink is unmatched and definitely makes for a special evening.

Westfield’s Winter Village is open from 10am – 10.30pm every day until January 8 with the exception of Christmas day.

Ticket prices range from £11 - £18.50. 

Website: icerinkatwestfieldlondon.co.uk

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