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When the sun is out in London, finding a good outdoor place to have a drink, relax and enjoy the long awaited summer sunshine can be difficult. Here are five idiosyncratic options to enjoy the city sun.

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The Roof Gardens, Kensington.

The Roof Gardens in Kensington really stand out when it comes to an outdoor location to enjoy in London. Primarily a restaurant, club and event venue, the extraordinary Roof Gardens are accessible to the general public during the day if no event is taking place. Close to Kensington High Street, the gardens are divided into three distinct areas, traditional English, formal Spanish and Tudor. The English garden offers a wild woodland theme featuring over 100 trees which are all under a preservation order, a stunning stream and pond with flamingos and ducks create an enchanted atmosphere.

Image by @iamfionaanderson

The Spanish Garden offers old fashioned fountains, spectacular vines and palm trees, while the Tudor garden delivers a subtle contrast with roses, ivy and leafy arches. The creative design of the Roof Gardens really makes it one of London’s secret treasures and definitely one of the best outdoor places to visit in the sunshine.

Image by @queeniech

Coq d’Argent

Coq d’Argent’s green rooftop garden features bright green lawn, sprawling vines, little walkways, and some of the best London views which make it a very popular hang out when the sun shines. With the mix of modern and old architecture surrounding the outdoor bar, the architecture in Coq d’Argent is very modern and minimalist, with spherical stones dotted around and perfectly trimmed hedges giving it a somewhat Alice in Wonderland feel. 

Image by Coq d'Argent

Rumpus Room

The Rumpus Room designed by talented Tom Dixon which is located in Mondrian Hotel gives the impression that guests are on the deck of a luxury cruise ship. The bar has floor-to-ceiling windows which features an eye catching brushed gold bar surrounded by lavish velvet and leather seating and statement lighting and the best part an outdoor terrace with glistening views across the river.

Image by @thenudgelondon

Notch London

Sat above one of the busiest streets in London, Oxford Street, you will find a little hidden edgy paradise. Located on the fourth floor of Park Lane’s Marriot Hotel Ideal for shade with massive white canopies, the style of the rooftop bar is very rustic with metal and rope swings for guests to enjoy, a big greenhouse and dusky big brown benches. The look of Notch will make you believe you’re in an old country farm.

Image by @alice_moore

Radio Roof Top Bar

Opening in 2013, Radio Rooftop Bar high above the Strand has protected its rank as one of central London’s prime rooftop drinking destinations. When you enter the terrace on a hot day it is like being in a glamorous hotel in Mallorca, although guests would struggle to find such luxurious blankets and patio heaters in the Balearic Islands. The bar is surrounded by gorgeous views of the city which guests can enjoy whilst relaxing on one of the contemporary white sofas. The style of the bar is white and black and very minimalist.

Image by @evenaila