We’re in for a scorcher this summer, so you’re going to need somewhere to keep cool. From laid-back rooftops to open-air cinemas, these pop-ups are leading the way when it comes to alfresco chilling. Just like this miraculous weather, these pop-ups won’t be around for long so take note from DesignMyNight and make your way to one of the hottest summer spots in London.
1. Neverland: Fulham Beach Club
Neverland has returned and this time it’s all about the beach. Transporting you to warmer climates, you’ll find nautical beach huts, plush cabanas and cute deck chairs on actual sand. With two bars, a tasty BBQ and live DJs, this is the perfect place to unwind; whether that’s with beach yoga, cocktail masterclasses or a round of refreshing drinks.
2. Skylight
Taking over Wapping’s Tobacco Dock, Skylight is the rooftop playground bringing you old school games and unrivalled views. Set over three floors, there are cocktail bars, street food and huge screens showing sports all through the summer. Practice your croquet and polish your pétanque skills, with gorgeous views of the city skyline providing the perfect backdrop.
3. Last Days of Shoreditch
Escape to the enchanted forest at this east London hotspot. Only minutes from the City, Last Days of Shoreditch is an ideal spot to drift away from the hustle and bustle of urban life. Filled with lush greenery, swinging hammocks and a tree house, you can relax over cocktails and street food. From mindfulness workshops to action-packed World Cup screenings and food festivals, this retreat has it all.
4. The BBQ Club
Calling all foodies: Jimmy's BBQ Club is back and bigger than ever. This time, there’s a revamped six-course menu, where you can tuck in to innovative dishes like moreish miso-glazed aubergine and smokey charred squid. With griddled apricots to finish, it beats a back garden BBQ any day.
5. Lost Vegas
This is Las Vegas… but not as you know it. Shoreditch staple, Queen of Hoxton, has restyled its rooftop into the strip of the future, with a little help from the production company behind El Dorado and Secret Garden Party. Chow down on vegan hot dogs from the abandoned yellow school bus bar, slurp on boozy ice pops and canned cocktails, or dance at a silent disco and meet Elvis in the wedding chapel.
6. Pitch Stratford
There’s a lot more to Stratford than shopping centres and the Olympics; there’s also an open-air cinema, live music and craft drinks. You’ll find all this and more at Pitch; the colourful oasis leading the way in alfresco activities. Beers are provided by Camden Town Brewery, while street food traders cook up a storm. Whether it’s after-work drinks or a weekend party you’re after, this place is a must visit.
7. Pub Tropicana
Kick start your weekend at this weekly Friday pop-up, bringing you all things tropical. Studio 338 and Sol have teamed up to bring you London’s hottest new music venue, providing the soundtrack to your summer. There are one-off parties, glow in the dark table tennis, cult pub quizzes and a whole heap of exciting events alongside special hosts including SB.TV, The Little Festival and more.
8. Magic Roundabout
Old Street’s most famed daytime destination has opened its doors for one final summer showdown. This last hurrah sees Magic Roundabout transformed into a hidden jungle, complete with palm print seating, a floral photobooth and a working waterfall. Attracting the likes of Smokin’ Lotus and Burger Bear, you’ll have more than enough food to choose from, as you soak up the rays and dance to top-notch DJs.
9. Rooftop Film Club
From the epic Roof East to Peckham’s uber cool Bussey Building, Rooftop Film Club is taking over some of London’s best sky-high hangouts for a season of screenings. Go old school with cult classics like Pulp Fiction or a modern hit like Black Panther. Whatever you pick, there will be bottomless popcorn and comfy deckchairs to chill out in as the sun goes down over London’s stunning skyline.
10. Scoop: A Wonderful World of Ice Cream
Heatwave, you say? Cool down at this unique exhibition, bringing ice cream to life through complete sensory immersion. Popping up at The British Museum of Food, founders Bompas & Parr have curated the world’s largest collection of ice cream paraphernalia, taking you on a journey through the past, present and future of our favourite frozen treat. You’ll even taste and create your very own flavour.
For more info on London’s best pop-ups, visit DesignMyNight, and follow them on Instagram and Twitter; @DesignMyNight.
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