9 magical igloos to cosy up in this winter

You know it’s Christmas when twinkling, transparent igloos start popping up around London – the kind you can drink, dine and be merry in, that is. Here are nine magical igloos to cosy up in this winter

 

1. Circe’s, Waterloo

 

Previously known as Bar Elba, Circe’s Aurora Nights in Waterloo offers fully enclosed pods, heated for the winter season. Why not book a Party Pod this Christmas? Expect curated winter menus and warming festive drinks (try the Hot Chocolate cocktail) with plush seating, soft blankets, ambient lighting and blue-tooth speakers in each igloo, so you can play your own music to your heart’s content. Circe’s Rooftop at Mercury House, 1117 Waterloo Road, SE1 8UL (opposite Waterloo station). www.circesrooftop.co.uk

 

2. Aviary, Finsbury Square

 

Combining rooftop views with festive, cosy surroundings, Aviary Rooftop Restaurant and Terrace Bar‘s pods will surely impress again this Christmas. Located on the 10th floor, the Alpine-themed ‘Summit above the Skyline’ igloos hold up to eight people but can be booked together for larger parties. This year they have partnered with Grey Goose vodka so you can expect an ultra-sleek offering. Dine on bespoke seasonal offerings and enjoy unique cocktails. 22-25 Finsbury Square, EC2A 1DX. www.aivarylondon.com

 

3. Wagtail, the City

Also getting the Grey Goose treatment, Wagtail presents a luxury rooftop location in central London. Cosy up in the comfortable, magical igloos while sipping on expertly crafted cocktails and gazing at 360-degree views including St Pauls, The Shard, Tower Bridge and Battersea Power Station. 68 King William Street, City of London, EC4N 7HR. www.etmcollection.co.uk

 

4. 1864 Rooftop Bar & Kitchen, Oxford Street

 

Once you’ve shopped ’til you drop in John Lewis’s famed department store, give yourself a well-deserved break with a table in one of the private heated igloos at 1864 Rooftop Bar & Kitchen. Positioned on the sixth floor and adorned with fairy lights, savour Winter Warmers from spiced mulled wine to crafted cocktails, and indulge in seasonal feasting menus. 300 Oxford Street, WC1 1DX. www.1864rooftopbar.co.uk

 

5. Coppa Club

Winter igloos crop up in various places across London now, but Coppa Club Tower Bridge was the ‘OG’ destination for the magical pods (and there’s now a Putney site, too). Overlooking the river with incredible views of the city, they are decorated with greenery and hanging lanterns. Cosy up under blankets and indulge in European dishes as well as festive specials (year round). This Christmas there will be a 100% chance of snow at the Tower Bridge location – with snow flurries timed to fall over the pods every half an hour. It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas… 3 Quays Walk, EC3R 6AH. www.coppaclub.co.uk

 

6. Skuna Boats, West India Quay

Taking the theme of igloos to a whole new level, Skuna Boats sees our cosy winter domes move from dry land to water! These ingenious igloo boats float down the River around West India Quay so you can see the twinkling lights of the city all around you. Dock at Canary Wharf and float for 90 minutes as you enjoy a fondue feast and seasonal drinks. Sure to be popular, they can be booked well after Christmas, until spring next year. West India Quay, E14 4AL. T: 020-3034 0293. www.skunaboats.com/igloo-boat

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7. Mercer, the City

8. The Secret Garden at The Crowne Plaza, Kensington

 

You’d been forgiven for forgetting you were in the heart of busy Kensington at the Secret Winter Garden in the Crowne Plaza (year-round). The one-acre garden provides a haven of tranquillity and this is further emphasised if you take a pew in one of their five domes, each heated and suitable for up to 10 guests. Take your pick from a two or three-course winter menu comprising international cuisine, or a spot of afternoon tea. Alternatively, try the tasting menus for Asian-inspired or Middle Eastern flavours. Pre-booking is essential. 100 Cromwell Road, SW7 4ER. www.londonsecretgarden.co.uk

 

9. The Sipping Room by Drake & Morgan, Canary Wharf

 

 

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