Daytime drinking in your favourite beer garden; discovering your city’s best rooftop hangouts; cooling off with an ice cold spritz... is it even summer if you’re not sipping on something delicious? From Instagrammable concoctions at a brand new terrace to bars shaking up frosty takes on your favourite classic, DesignMyNight reveals the best summer cocktails up and down the country and exactly where you’ll find them.
All about gin and cider, the menu at this King’s Cross hideaway is the perfect summer staple. Make your way to the gorgeous rooftop terrace and get involved with alfresco drinks, American junk food and bottomless brunch signatures. With a frozen pink Beefeater G&T, seasonal negronis and Hawkes rosé cider on the list, Big Chill is indeed bringing the chill this year.
Is your summer looking sweet, trashy and delicious? That’s exactly how this Bristol-based bar describes the Twister. As Instagrammable as it is tasty, this nostalgic concoction is inspired by Blackpool’s infamous Pleasure Beach. Head to Her Majesty’s Secret Service for a tangy mix of pear vodka, white chocolate strawberry cream, kiwi sherbet, milk and egg whites topped off with an ice lolly. Yep, you read that right.
When temperatures soar, take things to the roof. Located on the top floor of the ME London hotel, Radio is all about sky-high wining and dining with stunning views across central London. Gin lovers can take advantage of the exclusive Bombay Sapphire menu; including the elderflower and cider-infused L'été Indien and the Dolce Peccato which combines gin with limoncello, Campari, grapefruit and passionfruit.
If there’s one place you can count on for impressive cocktails, it’s Dirty Martini. Not only will you find vermouth-laced frosé, frosty margaritas and icy daiquiris on the menu, but also a frozen strawberry version of the rum-based concoction: we’re talking Havana 3 year rum, lime, sugar and bitters for the ultimate cool-down.
Prepare to be transported to Mexico as the Queen of Hoxton’s rooftop brings you a slice of Latin America. From tacos and tequila to piñata-making and live wrestling from the badass Luchadores, this isn’t your average day drinking destination. The days might be getting warmer but the drinks are most definitely cooler, so get your hands on frozen watermelon palomas and pineapple margaritas.
Just when you thought Red Door couldn’t get much better, the Berry Street bar launches the exclusive Eden. Transforming the rooftop space with luscious greenery, quirky décor and comfy seating, this beautiful spot is serving up a refreshing gooseberry and elderflower sour, as well as a Champagne-topped Aperol and rose spritz.
The go-to for decent drinks and live music in Hackney, Night Tales is a no-brainer. Not only is the beer garden lined with palm trees and Insta-baiting décor, when it comes to drinks, they’re not messing around. Expect all your summer favourites like fruity spritzes and sharing punch bowls alongside frozen ice tea, slushy negronis and craft beers.
Jungle-themed cabanas, a stunning covered pergola and a sandy beach in the heart of London? That’s right, Fulham Beach Club is back and this gorgeous west London hangout is fulfilling all your summer sipping needs. Whether you’re feeling thirsty after a few rounds of mini golf and shuffleboard, or you’re soaking up bottomless brunch in the sun, make sure to try the frozen porn star martini in this palm tree paradise.