Skating on King George's Lawn

Remember how, a few days ago, I said I was going ice skating somewhere rather special?
That somewhere was here:

The Royal Pavilion in Brighton was built between the late 18th and early 19th century, for the Prince Regent (who later became King George IV). The building is open to the public and is exquisite inside and out.
For the past several years the Royal Pavilion has set up an ice rink during the winter season. I've thought about going before, but have always talked myself out of it.

This year, I talked myself into it.

I also persuaded my sisters to go with me, which meant I couldn't back out!

Sister #1 went around the rink once and couldn't get on with it, so she slid off the ice early and became our photographer instead.
Meanwhile, sister #2 and I kept at it.
Notice how we're both sticking close to the edge, so we have something to grab hold of if our legs slipped from under us!

Of course, we did stop to pose for a 'happy skater' picture!

Sister #2 has been ice skating before, and apparently fell over lots that time. She had more luck today!

It took me a while to get the hang of moving along the ice without holding on to the railings. There were other people with loads of skill and confidence, who skated around like it was nothing! Oh to have that talent!

Aafter a while, I found it a bit easier. I think this is a few minutes before Sister #1 called out, "You're doing it!" ...and then I fell on my butt. I was jinxed, I tell you...

Hee hee, it looks like the guy in the background is skating on the rail...

Falling over wasn't going to stop me, so I got up and got going again. Massive appreciation for the school(?) students who offered their help when I fell over. I felt so sheepish!

Our tickets gave us an hour on the ice. Sister #2 and I managed to stay upright for most of that, hurrah!
Ice Skating was goal #88 on The List, so I can now cross that one off. Hurrah!

It was a great trip out, and I can totally recommend ice skating here, whether you're a novice or Yuzuru Hannyu.

The Royal Pavilion Ice Rink is open until 18th January, so if ever there's a time to get your skates on, this is it! Check their website for more info and tickets.