If you’re looking for the coolest new rooftop in London to drink cocktails and watch the sun set over the city skyline, we’ve found it: The Berkeley Rooftop Bar. The ultra-exclusive spot – known for being home to one of the most glorious outdoor pools in the capital – is normally only reserved for hotel guests. But this August, the sky-high spot will be open to all as they unveil their brand-new rooftop bar, set to be the destination of the summer.
Open for evenings only, the high altitude al fresco spot is going to be top of the list for discerning Londoners looking to sip a sundowner or two in style. The Berkeley Rooftop boasts one of the finest views in London, taking in the handsome red brick buildings of Knightsbridge, the sweeping crescents of Belgravia and the verdant treetops of Hyde Park. Those unparalleled vistas of the capital’s skyline will be accompanied by a menu of refreshing spritz cocktails, as well as Mediterranean-inspired small plates.
On arrival, guests will be whisked up to the top floor by lift, encountering a new mural by British-Italian artist Chiara Perano along the way. The dreamy freehand painted piece is made up of rich blues and greens, inspired by the colours of the sparkling pool and the leafy surrounds of the park. You can either book a table in advance or nab one of the blue and white candy-striped sun loungers, which will be reserved for walk-ins (though get there early, as this is set to be one of the hottest new rooftop bars in London and is bound to be one hot ticket).
You’ll feel like you’ve been transported to a glamorous beach club in the South of France rather than a new bar in London, as you’re served from magnums of rosé by the rooftop pool, while the thirst-quenching tipple of choice is set to be the bar’s hero sangria, which is mixed with Côte de Provence rosé and Fever-Tree raspberry lemonade, fresh grapefruit juice and seasonal fruit.
The cocktail list, meanwhile, will be made up a collection of highballs and summer spritzes like the Pool Party, made with Campari, Chambord, rhubarb, strawberry bitters and Fever-Tree soda water, and the Hyde Park Spritz, a blend of Ricard Pastis, Cointreau, Benedictine, lemon and sparkling water.
The food offering is just as enticing, with a seasonal menu of Mediterranean small plates on offer, all made for sharing as you lounge in the sun: think seared beef with truffle artichoke pesto and rocket, marinated squid with courgette spaghetti and watermelon, cherry tomato and feta salad topped with mint dressing. While the weather may have been fairly frightful of late, if there’s anything that can save our summer, it’s the Berkeley Rooftop. Chin-chin!
The Berkeley Rooftop Bar, Wilton Place, Knightsbridge, London, SW1X 7RL
the-berkeley.co.uk
