By Luke Chapman
Though London may not be the most reliable when it comes to providing hot summer weather, on those rare occasions the sun does come out to play, it can suddenly become a tropical hotspot.
From swimming in the Hampstead ponds to strolling around a Southbank food festival, there are endless ways of finding refreshment throughout the city. Perhaps surprisingly, that also includes the Square Mile.
The oldest part of London, now dominated by tall office buildings, may not seem like the most appropriate spot for a chill, but that’s merely because all the good spots are hidden – and we’re here to lift the veil for you.
Lounge at the Riverside
Even if you can’t swim in it, having water near you can make a hot day a lot more bearable. That’s why we love strolling along the Thames so much, especially since there are so many lovely restaurants and pubs along the way.
One great place is Samuel Pepys, a casual pub with panoramic river views, as well as a lovely balcony perfect for sunbathing. Other riverside joints are The Banker – a traditional social with plenty of outside seating – and The Oyster Shed, who don’t only offer great views, but excellent food, too.
Find shelter in the park
The City is full of beautiful parks, gardens and squares to take refuge in. St Dunstan in the East Church Garden is small but offers plenty of shade due to its surrounding walls.
Bring a book, pick a bench, and you’re sorted. A more adventurous space can be found in the Inner Temple Garden: a three-acre garden full of unusual trees and spectacular borders which, located in the heart of the City, offers a welcome oasis on a hot summer’s day.
Photo Credit: Claire Takacs
Jump in a pool
Open pools in the City are a bit hard to find, but there are myriad equipped gyms with refreshing pools for you to dive in. The Ironmonger Row Baths near Old Street, for example, where you can enjoy a spacious pool that typically doesn’t get too busy. What’s more, their spa facilities include a proper ice fountain for those who really need to cool down. Note, these are just a stone's throw away from the City boundary.
Other City pools can be found at Fitness First Bishopsgate, various Virgin Actives in the City, and Nuffield Cannon Street– good for swimming laps as well as relaxing if you want to grab a day pass. If you want to take it up a notch, you can also grab a day pass for the spa at The Ned, now that's how you do it!
Go for an outdoor meal
When the days of outdoor dining are so limited, you’d better enjoy every single one of them. Restaurants in the City offering outside seating include Madison (gorgeous view overlooking St. Paul’s Cathedral), Yautcha (great terrace in Broadgate Circle), and the aforementioned riverside Oyster Shed, among others.
Madison's rooftop terrace at One New Change
See? There are plenty of places in The City worth paying a visit next time the sun comes out. All there’s left to do is make sure you wear plenty of sunscreen.