Thursday 24 March 2011

Five Fantastic Elevator Journeys for Spring (to five great outdoor bars)




It’s only when the weather picks up that you get a sense of just how many people are in this city. Cycling to work becomes a Beijing like experience and Pubs spill punters across pavements, cycle paths and side streets. So if you fancy an after work pint (or lunchtime if you’re very naughty) and don’t want it knocked out of your hand by a seasonal jogger then look up, jump in a lift, and arrive with a ding at one of London’s rooftops for an altogether calmer experience…

One

Skybar at the Mint Hotel
7 Peppys Street
Tower Hill
EC3N 4AF

Currently my go-to place for work drinks it’s recently opened and has comprehensive cocktail, wine and whisky lists as well as some good food.  If speed impresses you then ride in the lift up to the 12th floor for wonderful views of the city and South London.  The large west-facing balcony is excellent for smokers, sunshine sippers and in the summer an outdoor bar and BBQ.

Two

The Boundry Rooftop
2-4 Boundary Street E2 7DD
April - October

The coolest on the list, the décor and relaxed atmosphere means you’re only a couple of glasses of rose away from feeling like it’s the first day a holiday.  Return to street level (in the lift obviously) for a reality check.

If this pushes your buttons but Shoreditch is a bit too east for you Coq D’argent is reassuringly in the heart of the city, fabulously French and wall to wall suits.

Three

Coq d’Argent
No.1 Poultry Street
EC2R 8EJ

Most Mentioned Venues:
Four

Oxo Tower
Oxo Tower Wharf
South Bank
SE1 9PH

It’s obvious, it’s been around forever and once rated as the most overpriced dining experience in London but it does have an undeniably good view of the river and North London. There’s also a public viewing deck so if you can’t afford the bar bill then you could always stop at a friendly corner shop, kick back on the deck with your BYO and see how long it takes to get booted off the premises.

Five

Kensington Roof Gardens
99 Kensington High Street
W8 5SA

To satisfy the West Londoners there’s always this iconic location. Leafy luxury that’s large enough to stroll around and balmy nights its easy to inspire a summer feeling. Turn up your collar and arrive early as at peak times the limited lifts make for a slow entrance.

Coming Soon:

I ‘m due to have a tour of this building in a couple of weeks time but until then I’ll have to go by the website – it looks and sounds impressive. I will revisit this shortly!

Restaurant Skybar with Terraces
Heron Tower
110 Bishopsgate
EC2