When the sun comes out you can take us to the terrace, please.
Aperol slushies did you say? We're listening. Stylish hotel The Standard in King's Cross has opened a sun-trap terrace & we're keen. The vibe is buzzing, with huge planters and loads of space. Plus they've got a Moët Minis vending machine so you can get your fizz-fix completely contactless. It's such an oasis of calm you'll feel like you're a million miles from the hectic rush of Euston Road. Result.
10 Argyle St, London NW1 2ST
It's no secret Churchill loved his booze & his cigars, and this refined terrace has kinda merged the two - only here the tobacco can be found in the sophisticated interior palette. This newly decorated terrace is decorated with wreaths of lavender and buddleia plants (Churchill & his wife were a fan, apparently) & the cocktails are as well-crafted as Churchill's famous speeches. We'll be sipping on Forbidden Spritz when we want a break from the chaos of Hyde Park.
Hyatt Regency, 30 Portman Square, Marylebone, London W1H 7BH, UK
Sure, the Heron Tower OG might have the views, but London's second SUSHISAMBA wins for al fresco dining with a slice of people-watching served on the side. The interior vibes of tropical rainforest vibrancy spill out onto the balcony terrace, and you get a great view of Covent Garden while tucking into your Brazillian-Japanese-Peruvian fusion food. The cocktails are also things of beauty - in fact, everything about this place is a feast for the eyes as well as the stomach.
35 The Market Building, London WC2E 8RF, UK
This brand new addition to the terrace scene has already set our pulses racing. The Mediterranean vibes are real at this hidden hideaway - think lanterns, festoon lights and candles twinkling between olive trees and lavender. We'll be having the charred octopus with lemon & garlic saffron aioli accompanied by a glass of fizz. Basically, you can feel like you've enjoyed a jaunt to Europe without the hassle of getting on a socially-distanced flight...
Wilton Pl, Knightsbridge, London SW1X 7RL
Missing the sand between your toes, the sound of the ocean & chillin' on a cabana? We might be able to help ya with the last one. This tropical hideaway in the uber-hip Mandrake Hotel is an evergreen oasis of hanging passion-flower and jasmine plants, with Mandrake Cabanas dotted throughout. It's perfect for lazing on those sunny afternoons or rocking into those balmy nights. The cocktails are equally exotic, served from a wooden shack-style bar. You know where to find us.
20-21 Newman St, Fitzrovia, London W1T 1PG
Who'd have thought there was such a pretty & peaceful escape tucked in Belgravia? Head to The Hari hotel, swish through the uber-chic lobby, ask one of the very friendly staff to show you the terrace and boom, you're in a glorious garden escape. Luscious plantlife, comfy couches and festoon lighting make this the kinda terrace we'd have in our own home if wishes came true. Come to graze on their light bites over lunch with their impressive array of Italian wines by the glass, and stay til sunset as the sky darkens and the lights twinkle into action. Don't wanna leave? We don't blame you. Luckily the bedrooms here are just as divine, so whack it on the plastic & treat yourself to a night out in true style.
20 Chesham Pl, Belgravia, London SW1X 8HQ
A spacious seating area in Covent Garden? We'll take that, especially when luxury tea cocktails and French pastries are on the menu. Mariage
Frères have opened their chic Iced Tea Terrace on the newly pedestrianised King Street. Since they're France’s oldest tea house, it makes sense that they've got creative with their cocktails - the Opéra Sunrise is a fruity green tea cocktail flavoured with red fruits and blue berries, basil, ginger and a little gin kick. Or go booze-free with their brand new Pink Cactus Iced Tea. Ooh la la.
38 King St, Covent Garden, London WC2E 8JS
You can't go wrong with Dalloway Terrace for a blooming beautiful time with kickass food & drink to match. This aesthetically-aspirational terrace is covered in seasonally-inspired flowers and flora - ideal for anyone who's been missing nature & needs some soul-nurturing in London post-lockdown. Join us on the Bloomsbury Blush cocktails or get involved with their killer selection of sparkling wines - this feels like the kinda place where sparkles are suitable at any time of day.
16-22 Great Russell St, Fitzrovia, London WC1B 3NN, UK Bloomsbury
Fancy a little opulence outdoors? Head to FOLIE. This swish restaurant on Golden Square has a brand new terrace for al fresco dining if the mood takes you. The menu is channeling Mediterranean dishes inspired by the Italian and French Riviera, and as well as some epic cocktails they also have a bunch of rare and unusual pastis and vermouths. If you've been craving a three-Martini lunch then this could be the place to come...
37 Golden Square, London, W1F 9LB
This sleek little sister of Pachamama has a menu based around seafood, and a beautiful aesthetic almost as fresh as their ceviche. They also have a cute terrace garden that's a perfect blend of posh Chelsea garden centre and breezy Latin American beach shack. There are brightly woven blankets to keep warm as evening cools & the festoon lighting starts to glow, and some of the best Pisco Sours you're gonna find in SW London. Who needs a summer holiday when you have this place?
383 King's Rd, Chelsea, London SW10 0LP