Remember that day a couple of weeks ago when it was hot in London? Well I’m positive this rainy spell is going to end and London is in for a beautiful summer! I’m thinking prosecco in the park, long walks by the river and sunny days with roof top views…
That being said here are eight luxurious things to do in London this summer, once the sun has got his hat on again.
1. Afternoon Tea at Dalloway Terrace
Earlier in the year, myself and a group of fellow bloggers enjoyed the most fantastic afternoon tea at Dalloway Terrace at The Bloomsbury Hotel.
The beautiful terrace is perfect to bask in the sun during the day and as the evening comes in fairy lights twinkle through the hedges and you can draw up a blanket for warmth.
During the 1930’s Virginia Woolf and the Bloomsbury Group were a group of influential intellectuals who lived and worked in the area where the hotel now stands. Rather fittingly the terrace is named after the eponymous character in Virginia Woolf’s novel, Mrs Dalloway, and the afternoon tea draws inspiration from 1930’s recipes.
2. Taste of London
The time is here once again for a massive celebration of London’s restaurants scene and some of the top food and drink producers in the UK. Held this weekend in Regent’s Park, Taste of London gives the opportunity to try the signature dishes of some of London top restaurants as well as attend masterclasses with renowned chefs. I popped down last night to check out the ‘Entertaining at Home’ Masterclass with Laurent-Perrier and The Grill at The Dorchester. 
One of the luxurious tents at the festival had been transformed into the Grill and Alain Ducasse’s protege Christophe Marleix was on hand to show us how to prepare his signature dishes at home. Each dish was paired with a different cuvée and of course the whole experience was very special to me as we had our wedding reception at The Dorchester and drank Laurent-Perrier.
My favourite dish was the Hansen and Lydersen smoked salmon, paired with the zero dosage Laurent-Perrier Ultra Brut but I also loved the Grand Siècle which went perfectly with lobster chowder. 
And finally we enjoy braised lamb with Laurent-Perrier cuvée rose, because why not! After attending the Evening Standard restaurant awards, I enjoyed the gorgeous Laurent-Perrier Club House, which is available on a first come first served basis. 
Leaving me not much time to try the other restaurant! Though I loved the tuna tartare from Heddon Street Kitchen, and others on my table raved about the macaroni and cheese with beef cheeks from the same restaurant. 
Just before the event closed I had time to grab some chicken with Keralan spices from Trishna, which I would highly recommend! Tickets for Taste of London are still available for tonight and this weekend.
3. Drink champagne at The Secret Garden at The Four Seasons Park Lane
There’s a little secret spot in located in the heart of Mayfair, where you can indulge in a couple of glasses of champagne away from the crowds…
The Secret Garden at The Four Seasons London is the only place where you can enjoy Veuve Cliquot RICH this summer. With a little extra sugar and served over fruit and ice, Veuve Cliquot RICH is a deliciously refreshing summer drink. 
Mr S and I popped down to try a glass (or two) and we loved the beautiful floral terrace with its monogrammed Veuve cushions, umbrellas and throws…
With a menu of Italian light summer dishes it’s the perfect place to settle in for the afternoon to enjoy some good food and fantastic bubbly.
4. A Taste of The Mediterranean with Daniel Boulud at The Mandarin Oriental
For me Mediterranean flavours really epitomise summer, which is why I was delighted to try Daniel Boulud’s pop up restaurant at the Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park London
Located in his existing restaurant, Bar Boulud, Daniel has transported the vibrant menu of his Mediterranean-inspired restaurant, Boulud Sud, to London for the summer.
Expect flavours from Italy, France and Morocco, plenty of rosé and themed decor to match the experience. My full review of the pop-up is coming soon and the start date is early July.
5. A Room With View
One of my favourite things to do when summer sparks in London is to visit one of the fabulous roof terraces that show off the famous London skyline. Earlier in the year I visited Vista in Trafalgar Square; the bar has a great view of Nelson’s Column and the London Eye and it is surprisingly less crowded than some of the roof top lounges.
Some of my other fashionable favourite bars with a view are Radio at the ME Hotel, The Terrace at SushiSamba and Aqua Spirit off Oxford Street. Do be aware that these bars can get very crowded and it can be very so difficult to get a table. Shoreditch House is my absolute favourite rooftop bar as you can relax in the sun by the pool whilst enjoying some cocktails and a fabulous view of the city – you have to know a member to get in though.
6. Picnic in the Park
Some of my favourite luxury London hotels have taken the hassle of preparing the perfect picnic. Outlaw’s at the Capital has created a classic picnic basket, ideal for a lunch in nearby Hyde Park, while the Charlotte Street Hotel has options for breakfast or lunch. For a supplement you can add a bottle of bubbles to the party.
Photo Credit: Suze, The Luxury Columnist
I particularly love the look of the luxurious picnic from Duke’s Hotel who will set up your spot for you and even provide a private picnic butler! My friend Suze loved the experience last year.
7. Watching Wimbledon
There are several luxurious places to watch Wimbledon from this year and I’d certainly recommend checking out Strawberries and Screen at Duke of York Square. From 8th – 10th July, bring along a blanket and buy some nibbles from Partridge’s or one of the other nearby artisan food shops. To make sure you’re in the centre of the action, you can even reserve VIP seats.
Photo Credit: Mina, King Road Rocks
There are also free screenings of Wimbledon from 27th June to 8th July at Cardinal Place in Victoria. Relax here on a deck chair with a beer or a bite to eat from one of the Shepherds Market Food Stalls.
8. BONUS OPTION!! London’s first naked restaurant!
Yes, you read that correctly, The Bunyadi is London’s first naked restaurant! The restaurant is in South East London but the exact location is top secret and diners can enjoyed ‘naked,’ natural and organic food and wine while letting it all hang out! If you’re keen to pay a visit be aware that currently 46,000 people have applied for a ticket and the cost is £69.
