Where to find igloos in London this winter

Twinkling, transparent igloos are popping up all around London – don’t worry, the temperature hasn’t dropped that much. Find out the best igloos to wine and dine in this winter

 

Coppa Club

In recent years London has gone mad for PVC domes, and Coppa Club Tower Bridge was one of the first places to introduce them. The magical pods, overlooking the river with incredible views of the city, are decorated with greenery and hanging lanterns. Cosy up under blankets and indulge in European dishes such as pasta, pizza, salads and steaks as well as festive specials (year round). There is now a new Igloo-tastic Coppa Club site in Putney, too – check it out here. These pods are especially popular at Christmas time so book yours now!

3 Quays Walk, EC3R 6AH. T: 020-8016 9227. www.coppaclub.co.uk

 

Aviary, Finsbury Square

Combining rooftop views with festive, cosy surroundings, Aviary Rooftop Restaurant and Terrace Bar’s pods are sure to wow you once again this Christmas (from 18 Oct-March 23, daily). Dotted across the 9th and 10th floors, the igloos hold up to eight people but can be booked together for larger parties. Indulge in a savoury fondue, including Swiss cheese and antipasti bites such as cold meats and olives, or a sweet fondue (Swiss cheese, chocolate and fruits) – both served with mince pies and drinks of your choice.

22-25 Finsbury Square, EC2A 1DX. T: 020-3873 4060. www.aivarylondon.com

 

Jimmy’s Pop Up, Southbank

For a taste of the Alps (albeit on the banks of the Thames rather than up a snowy mountain) Jimmy’s Pop Up igloos are the perfect place to enjoy the hustle and bustle of the Southbank but in the privacy of intimate surroundings (from 5 Nov-8 Jan 23). They cater for groups of up to ten people and run a lunch, pre-theatre and dinner setting seven days a week. Choose from festive dishes such as wild game terrine, traditional alpine fondue and venison bourguignon and watch the world go by – on both water and land.

Southbank Centre, Belvedere Road, SE1 8XX. www.jimmyspopup.com

 

Skylight Tobacco Dock, Wapping

Twinkling lights, heated igloos with city skyline views and a rooftop skating rink… you can’t get much more festive than at  Skylight Tobacco Dock this Christmas. Each themed, heated igloo (spread over two floors) fits 10 people maximum and what’s more, there’s a bottle of Prosecco or six bottled lagers included in the booking fee. Wash them down with delicious dishes from the Alpine-themed street food menu, as well as warming winter cocktails such as mulled cider and of course, mulled wine. Available until March 2023.

Tobacco Quay, Wapping Lane, E1W 2SF. www.skylightbars.com

 

Bar Elba, Waterloo

In the festive mood? Then why not book a party pod? Bar Elba’s igloos are available all year round but really come into their own at Christmas time. The illuminated structures can host up to 15 guests and you can even plug in your own playlist for a totally personal experience. The relaxed menu features burgers, fries and bottomless drinks.

Rooftop at Mercury House, 109-117 Waterloo Road, SE1 8UL (opposite Waterloo station). T: 020-3892 8166. www.bar-elba.co.uk

 

 

Winterland, Fulham

From cosy cabins to a Bavarian tent, a ski lift bubble to an Alpine lodge and even a fire pit, Winterland (in the heart of Fulham) is exactly that and fans of the festive season will be spoilt for choice (from 4 Nov). Seating 6-8 people, the Forrest igloos are surrounded by pine trees, with cosy faux furs to cuddle up to and a cheese fondue to dip your snacks into. Schnapps, anyone?

Neverland, Wandsworth Bridge Road, SW6 2TY. T: 020-3034 0293. www.neverlandlondon.com

​

Mercer, the City

Mercer Roof Terrace (to March 23), at the top of the Vintry & Mercer Hotel in the City, really showcases the magic of London at this time of year. Their rooftop igloos, surrounded by twinkling city lights, are warm and cosy – think flickering candlelight and fluffy blankets. The igloos seat up to eight people – enjoy the best of modern English food (farm-to-table produce cooked using the charcoal oven) with your pals as you look out over onto St Paul’s Cathedral and The Shard from the rooftop.

20 Garlick Hill, EC4V 2AU. Nearest station is Mansion House. T: 020-3908 8088. www.vintryandmercer.com

 

Vinegar Yard, London Bridge

Positioned next to bustling London Bridge Station, Vinegar Yard offers everything from alfresco drinks and food to a flea market and stunning art installations. In the colder months, the space is ‘winter-proofed’ with huge tents and outdoor heating. The terrace is now also home to a handful of heated igloos – cosy up in one of them on a comfy sofa by the fire (yes, they even include a fire!) and gaze out to one of the best views of London as you enjoy warming cocktails and winter street food.

Vinegar Yard, 72-82 St Thomas St, SE1 3QU. www.vinegaryard.london

 

The Secret Winter Garden at The Crowne Plaza, Kensington

 

The Waterway, Maida Vale

 

Please like, share and comment below and see if we have anything else to inspire your next visit to London.