Even the water looks fancy when it’s placed on the table in the Great Room at The Merchant Hotel, Belfast. The former headquarters of the Ulster Bank has all the old world charm of years gone by and their formal dining area is a sight to behold.
The Merchant Hotel, Belfast
The Merchant Hotel, Belfast brings together old world luxury and exceptional service in the heart of Belfast. Located in the popular Cathedral Quarter, it is easy access to cobblestoned laneways filled with a vibrant and eclectic mix of bars, clubs and restaurants.
Lyaness Bar, Sea Containers London
Award winning London cocktail bar, Lyaness, on the Ground Floor of Sea Containers London, is definitely worthy of an article of its own. From the moment you enter the doors and are seated in plush electric blue velvet, comfy chairs to opening up the menu, you know you’re in for something special.
London Eye
If it’s your first time in London, I always recommend taking a spin on the London Eye. In particular, to elevate your booking to the next level, definitely book the Champagne Experience to make it a much more civilised spin. The London Eye, situated on the South Bank of the Thames, was officially opened on …
The Tower of London
Although it was my second time visiting the Tower of London, I still can’t say I’ve spent enough time there or seen it all. Visiting it out of season, however meant crowds were low and we didn’t even have to queue to see the Crown Jewels. Unheard of during the Summer peak season. The Tower …
Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Bar, Soho, London
Located in the heart of bustling Soho, Ronnie Scott’s, the legendary jazz institution was high on my list of places to check out recently.
The Best Tasting Menu at Kahani Indian Restaurant, Sloane Square
I love a good tasting menu, and the one experienced at Kahani Indian Restaurant in Chelsea, London was probably in the top five of my most delicious meals of all time. I’m still dreaming about the food, and hope Michelin award winning chef, Peter Joseph, brings out a cookbook so I can attempt to recreate …
Diana Memorial, Kensington Gardens
While wandering around Kensington Gardens, we took the time to visit the Sunken Garden, which is now home to the Princess Diana Memorial unveiled in July 2021 to commemorate what would have been her 60th birthday.
Sky Garden, London
Although I have travelled to London many times, the first time visiting Sky Garden, was truly memorable. After drizzling all day, the sun came out to shine just as we arrived. We were privileged to watch the sunset over the iconic London landscape and the view, and pictures didn’t disappoint!
We booked online prior to our visit for 4pm to be there at the optimum time to catch the sunset. There are two queues, one for ticket holders and the other for any overflow who may be allowed in depending on the number of ticket holders. Tickets are free and can booked up to three weeks in advance from their website.
The line moves quickly and before you know it, you’re through airport style security and swept into a lift to rise to level 35. Here you will find the bar area, outdoor viewing deck, and stairs to the public garden. A word of warning though, don’t be like us and forget your government issued ID which matches your ticket as you won’t be allowed to enter.
Sky Garden is home to two bar areas – Sky Pod and City Garden. They’re great spaces to enjoy a cocktail and listen to live music while soaking in a 360 degree view over London. Darwin Brasserie is a great place for weekend breakfast or brunch and is also opened throughout the week. Our only disappointment was we didn’t have time to try their fine dining restaurant, Fenchurch as we had other plans for the evening. However, as is always the way with London, there’s always next time!
Contact Details:
Sky Garden
1 Sky Garden Walk
London EC3M 8AF
www.skygarden.london
For other things to do in London, check out these posts:
Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Bar, London
Baccarat Bar, Harrods
London Eye
Check out our Essential Guide of what to do in London
Baccarat Bar, Harrods
Starting a trip to London from the other side of the world generally means you fly in early in the morning and need to find a way to deal with the inevitable jet lag. I find one of the best ways to combat it is to celebrate with a glass of cheeky champagne at a London institution.