By Amanda Gegg
It’s no secret that London has its fair share of beautiful outdoor spaces. However, what might not be so well known is that many of the most stunning are hidden behind the doors of its best restaurants.
A restaurant garden might not sound like much in itself but believe me, when you see some of London’s most gorgeously kept al fresco plots you won’t think of this term the same again.
The Ivy Chelsea Garden (Kings Road, Chelsea)
Located conveniently in the home of horticulture, this Ivy – one of many in the chain – is one of the most celebrated in London thanks to its stunningly well-kept garden, which you can always expect to be fully booked on the day. It’s the perfect setting for a special occasion so make sure you book in advance.
Coppa Club (Tower Bridge)
Every year when summer hits, Coppa Club transform their winter igloos in to an unforgettable summer garden and this year they’ve gone for Surfers Paradise, complete with a VW campervan bar and individual surf shacks.
The Orangery and Garden at Number Sixteen (South Kensington)
You definitely don’t see restaurant gardens like this every day and just the sight of the Orangery at the impeccably designed Number Sixteen Hotel in South Kensington will blow you away with its ornate décor, exclusively put together by Kit Kemp.
The Culpeper (Spitalfields)
It doesn’t get more rustic than the rooftop garden at the Culpeper in Spitalfields, where you will find yourself feasting on an array of homegrown produce, which was once upon a time probably grown right next to where you’re sitting.
The River Café (Hammersmith)
This picturesque riverside garden could easily give the Loeb Boathouse in Central Park a run for its money and its iconic restaurant has been serving fine Italian food since the 80s.
The Sanderson
On trend as ever, the Sanderson have joined forces with Veuve Clicquot this year to transform their gorgeous courtyard in to a tropical palm tree-laden paradise. I still hold firm that this is one of London’s unwavering hidden gems.
Annabel’s (Mayfair)
Annabel’s didn’t earn its reputation as one of the most sought-after venues in London for nothing. Just its garden alone is enough to leave you speechless and this is most likely down to the fact that they don’t miss a beat when it comes to elegance, comfort and up-to-the minute style.
Floral Court at La Goccia (Petersham Nurseries, Covent Garden)
Like the other Petersham Nurseries sites, La Goccia is completely inspired by nature and the same can be said for its gorgeous Floral Court, displaying the perfect placing of beautiful plants in amongst shabby chic décor.