Is this the bar with the best view of London? We think it might be.
There are so many cocktail bars in London these days that it can be difficult to decide where to go that might be that extra bit special. Sometimes a great USP can be the clincher – and this is where Skygarden holds its own.
Situated in the Walkie Talkie building – that massive structure on Fenchurch Street that stretches upwards in an eye-bending curve – this is taking sipping in the sky to new, well, levels. The 35th level, to be precise. Not only does Skygarden tower above London, turing pedestrians into mere ants, but the panorama is spectacular. With 360 degree views, you will find yourself wandering around in open-mouthed wonder, marvelling as the city stretches below you. Don’t be surprised if you feel like Simba surveying his kingdom, or the Hobbits peeking out over the Eagle’s nest. It really will wow you to blockbuster proportions.
We visited at nighttime, when the darkness was lit up like a circuit-board of twinkling lights, neon glows and bright flashes. The Thames winds below, while Canary Wharf gapes nearby. The actual design of the place is equally impressive – set out like a giant conservatory with cascading flowers and plants. It seems for a moment like you could be on the edge of a new world.
But what about those cocktails? It would be a shame if such impressive surroundings were let down by the libations. Luckily, this is not the case. The Sky Pod bar menu is divided into classics, signatures, champagne and sparkling (well, if anywhere was going to be appropriate for a bit of fizz, this is it). Tables are dotted around next to the glass like little islands, each one offering a unique view. So what cocktails are best?
The Charles Chaplin from the Classic Menu was a super balance of Apricot Brandy, Sloe Gin and Lemon – it was on the sweeter side, a gorgeous deep coral colour with a twist of lemon, perfect for indulgent sipping. Those looking for something on the fresh side will love the Signature Thyme For Tea – Gin stirred with Sauvignon Blanc, Thyme & Earl Grey Syrup & a kick of fresh lemon juice, decorate with a sprig of thyme for a gorgeous nose. The Autumn Breeze is a rich, complex mixture of Vodka, Pinot Noir, beetroot juice, Eager Apple Juice & homemade falernum, completed with the woody spice of cinnamon, while a fragrant and exotic libation comes in the form of the Princess Jasmine – gin infused with fresh lime, jasmine syrup, soda, pretty edible flowers and lemongrass cones.
And what about those bubbles? The aptly named High In The Sky is a fresh and flirty mix of Mandarin vodka, peach liqueur, passion fruit & lime juice, all topped with Champagne, while fans of the sparkling stuff can order a classic Bellini.
With such a fabulous choice to make your way through, it might not just be the heights that begin to make you dizzy… but surely this is just the perfect excuse to return again and again. After all, it’s not exactly a location you can get bored with…