Sustainable fashion is booming, with shoppers who want to reduce their environmental impact – and save money – flocking to charity stores, vintage boutiques and sites like Depop and Vinted in search of secondhand bargains. Having cut ties with fast fashion brands, Love Island is partnering with eBay again for its summer season, bringing preloved going-out gear into the villa for the reality show’s contestants to wear in the evenings. The islanders always wear new bikinis, one-pieces or swim shorts, however, so does that mean it’s not hygienic to buy secondhand swimwear? We asked doctors to talk through the pros and cons of preloved swimming gear… Health risks “By the nature of what they are for, swimsuits are not very breathable and hence an easy trap for moisture,” says personal physician and private home visiting GP Dr Suhail Hussain. “The area it covers – your genital region – is particularly susceptible to reacting badly to prolonged contact with moisture.” This means the fabric could become a breeding ground for fungal or bacterial infections. “It may also contain traces of the previous owner’s skin cells and skin flora such as staph aureus – the nose and perineum being the most common sites for this bacterium,” Hussain continues. “Norovirus and MRSA are also other potential pathogens that could be found and transmitted.” However, the actual risk of becoming ill – as long as you wash your swimwear properly – is low. “It is unlikely that you will develop any serious infection from such pathogens, even if they do exist,” Hussain says. “And this phenomenon is not exclusive to used clothes – research has found that any/all of these bugs can exist on new clothes.” He also points out the idea that you could catch a sexually transmitted disease via swimsuits is a myth: “These can generally only be transmitted from person to person contact or via contaminated blood, needles etc, the same way you can’t contract an STD from a public toilet.” Wash before wearing To minimise the risk of illness, make sure to wash a secondhand bathing suit before you wear it. “I recommend the first wash should be at 60C or above,” says Dr Sarah Brewer, medical nutritionist and brand ambassador for Origins. “That’s because fungal spores – such as candida albicans, which causes thrush – aren’t killed at lower temperatures. This higher temperature will also kill scabies.” After that you can go back to 30C washes, which also save energy. Hussain agrees: “Putting swimwear in the washing machine before wearing is a good idea – used or new.” He recommends one further precaution when shopping: “Don’t forget to wash your hands after having tried on swimwear.” Personal preference Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide if secondhand swimwear gives you the ick (to borrow a term often heard on Love Island). “While I’d personally draw the line at wearing someone else’s secondhand underwear, I’d happily buy a secondhand swim suit,” says Brewer. “Let’s face it, most people only use their swimsuits a few times a year – perhaps when on holiday – and if they’ve given it away and it’s in good shape, then go for it.” Love Island returns to ITV2 and ITVX on June 5. Read More Charity boss speaks out over ‘traumatic’ encounter with royal aide Ukraine war’s heaviest fight rages in east - follow live 10 of the best affordable gifts for dads of all ages Top tips to avoid garden injuries Planning an LGBTQ+ wedding? Why inclusivity can be a driving factor for couples

The ring watch came into my life unexpectedly. I was perusing new collections at the House Of — a New York City-based fashion PR agency — pre-New York Fashion Week editor preview, where new collections from a variety of brands are shown. There, on the table, I saw it: the dashing gold and vibrant crystals, the watch face, nearly as big as a quarter.

If you’re looking for a short-haul European escape for winter sun in Greece, a family ski trip in France or a cool city break in Spain, the hotel you choose to book is, of course, as much a part of the getaway as the destination itself. Whether you want to relax in tranquil surroundings after a busy day of exploring or you want to be right in the heart of the city nightlife, selecting the right hotel for you can make or break a holiday. Whether it’s Instagrammable style for an absolute steal, thoughtful design and architecture, historic glamour, or a hotel newcomer packing the coolest new rooftop bar around, Europe has a hotel to suit every traveller – and budget. Ranging from grand dames that have been delighting guests for centuries, to the new kids on the block, through big-hitting brands and boutique stays, here’s our hand-picked round-up of 20 of the best hotels in Europe. The best hotels in Europe for 2023 are: Best hotel for a mind-blowing spa: The Retreat at Blue Lagoon, Iceland Best hotel for a city break: Pulitzer Amsterdam, the Netherlands Best hotel for a romantic retreat: Manon les Suites Guldsmeden, Denmark Best hotel for wine buffs: Palacio Ludovice Wine Experience Hotel, Portugal Best hotel for foodies: São Lourenço do Barrocal, Portugal Best hotel for gin-lovers: Solar Branco Eco Estate, Portugal Best hotel for an all-inclusive family holiday: Ikos Andalusia, Spain Best hotel for a bohemian break: Montesol Experimental Ibiza, Spain Best hotel for art-lovers: Hotel El Palace Barcelona, Spain Best hotel for a seaside staycation: The Nici, UK Best hotel for a boutique spa experience: Middleton Lodge Estate, UK Best hotel for style on a budget: Mama Shelter Rennes, France Best hotel for skiers: Portetta, France Best hotel for showstopping swims: Cali Mykonos, Greece Best hotel for a wellbeing boost: Pnoé Breathing Life, Greece Best hotel for a ritzy multi-gen getaway: Amanzoe, Greece Best hotel for wildlife: Oasyhotel, Italy Best hotel for la-dolce-vita opulence: Passalacqua, Italy Best hotel for polished service: Mandarin Oriental, Czech Republic Best hotel for a flight-free escape: The Hoxton, Brussels, Belgium Best hotels in Iceland Best hotel for a mind-blowing spa: The Retreat Hotel Location: Blue Lagoon Soaking in the milky-blue, mineral-rich waters of Iceland’s Blue Lagoon is the stuff of spa-lovers’ dreams. Staying at this blow-the-budget, 60-room property, built into a lava flow at the lagoon’s shore, takes the experience up a notch. As well as access to the main lagoon, the hotel has a series of travertine terraced pools (resembling Turkey’s Pamukkale), which flow straight from the lagoon, meaning you can soak in peace, rather than having to do the selfie-stick dodge. Another USP? The atmospheric subterranean spa, ringed by ultramarine waterways, has a lava rock steam room; sultry lit-by-fire relaxation rooms; plus, spherical nests suspended waterside. As well as bookable float therapy and in-lagoon massages, there’s a cavern for a fun DIY spa “ritual”, which involves slathering yourself in algae masks and lava scrubs. Post-spa, bedrooms with duck-egg blue and leafy palettes, plus deep, egg-shaped stone bathtubs offer further relaxation. On-point dining at Michelin-starred Moss shows off Icelandic bounty, while high-energy staff can organise helicopter rides over the Reykjanes Peninsula, and guided hikes up nearby Mount Þorbjörn. Price: Doubles from £1,029 a night Book now Best hotels in the Netherlands Best hotel for a city break: Pulitzer Amsterdam Location: Amsterdam Amsterdam’s almost unrivalled when it comes to atmospheric city-centre prettiness, and The Pulitzer – which has 225 rooms spread across a rabbit warren of 25 17th- and 18th-century canal houses – fits right in. Jacu Strauss’s interiors fuse architectural beams and carved fireplaces with contemporary Dutch craftsmanship, and bedrooms with pastel, purple and gold touches (all of which, rather handily, have bike-repair kits). Top-level suites pack eccentric personality – you’ll find playable instruments hung on the wall in the music collector’s suite. As well as having Amsterdam’s Unesco World Heritage-listed waterways on the doorstep, it’s an easy walk to wonder at the works of Van Gogh, Rembrandt and Vermeer at the Rijksmuseum. Anne Frank’s house is close by and, back at the hotel, there’s a garden to retreat to for plates of burrata pistachio fusilli. Best hotels in Denmark Best hotel for a romantic getaway: Manon les Suites Guldsmeden Location: Copenhagen Manon Les Suites – about 15 minutes from Copenhagen’s Central Station, in the north of the city – provides a calming base close to lakeside strolls, yet within easy reach of the city centre. The 87-room hotel delivers a rush of Bali-inspired tropicool, thanks to a showstopping central, green-tiled swimming pool, adorned with dangling fish-shaped lighting and swinging pot plants – dips don’t get more atmospheric than this. Pared-back bedrooms have a touch of cabin cool, with wood detailing, white curtained beds (crisp Scandi, rather than old-fashioned frills and flounce), Marshall radios and a monstera plant here and there. A roof terrace, complete with a sauna and steam room, is a divine spot for R&R too. Best hotels in Portugal Best hotel for wine buffs: Palacio Ludovice Wine Experience Hotel Location: Lisbon With a stellar location in Bairro Alto, opposite the Glória tram – take in the views of Lisbon’s terracotta rooftops and the meandering Tagus River from the Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara park – this wine-focused palacete (small palace) is now a contemporary haven for oenophiles. Behind a sunrise-yellow 18th-century facade, there’s a 61-room hotel, where bedrooms pair original frescos and stucco ceilings with contemporary peach and blue accents, and airy bathrooms with gilt-edged mirrors. Particularly special, rooms 210 and 310 feature original wall-to-wall blue-and-white tiling. Check-in glasses of port set the tone for a bon vivant stay, underlined by tastings, which zoom from the vineyards of the Douro Valley to the sunny south, with a dedicated-to-Portuguese-wine list, including Madeiran tinta negra and Alicante bouschet from the Algarve. Paired wine suppers take place in the Hanging Gardens-feel restaurant, Federico, and there’s a Caudalie Vinotherapy spa for crushed-cabernet scrubs. Best hotel for foodies: São Lourenço do Barrocal Location: Alentejo In Alentejo’s rural interior, two hours’ drive from Lisbon and surrounded by ancient olive groves and vineyards, is the 19th-century whitewashed farmstead São Lourenço do Barrocal. Family-run for generations, since being transformed into a boutique hotel a few years ago, it’s established itself as one of Portugal’s best. Orange trees line a cobbled central street, with 40 bucolic rooms and cottages sprinkled either side. Decor is wonderfully hushed, with terracotta brick floors, sage-coloured shutters and botanical touches. Fans of the farm-to-table ethos are spoilt, with opportunities to gen up on wine and olive oil production, and the nuances of the estate’s terroir (granite and schist soils), while Alentejano chef José Júlio Vintém serves locally farmed, acorn-fed black pig, fresh goat’s cheese and traditional breads at the field-to-fork restaurant. A monastic-feel spa is a real mellower, as are dips in the 20m outdoor pool and stargazing trips in the nearby Alqueva Dark Sky Reserve. Best hotel for gin-lovers: Solar Branco Eco Estate Location: São Miguel, Azores This boutique home-away-from-home is the ideal base to explore this Azorean isle, where jewel-hued crater lakes pepper the volcanic landscape, and whales traverse the waves offshore. With eight minimal-chic rooms in a country house, and reimagined outbuildings on the remote São Miguel island, this is a restful retreat just a few minutes’ drive from downtown Ponta Delgada and the airport. Solar Branco also has a sustainable ethos – think breakfast spreads of locally grown pineapples, avocados and strawberries, plus slabs of Sao Jorge cheese, and eggs from the chickens on site; rewilded grounds; an organic kitchen garden, and soon-to-be-activated electricity and water trackers in bedrooms. The hotel’s gin-enthusiast owners are also the proprietors of The Gin Library – a 1,140-strong gin collection meets speakeasy and masterclass space. A complimentary “gin o’clock” tipple is included nightly, meaning guests can sample the likes of Canadian lavender Silver Fox and CBD-infused Colorado High gin (from Silent Pool distillery in Surrey) on the bar’s suntrap terrace. Best hotels in Spain Best hotel for art-lovers: Hotel El Palace Barcelona Location: Barcelona With more museums and galleries than you can shake a stick at, Barcelona is catnip for fans of art. This grande dame hotel – close to the city’s Gothic quarter – first opened as Barcelona’s Ritz in 1919, attracting art-world royalty and actual royalty. Today, the 120 neoclassical-inspired rooms at the revamped El Palace Barcelona still cater to an arty crowd. The Versailles-look Great Hall doubles up as a rotating gallery, where bold works from Iñigo Manterola and Ana Paúl have been displayed. Top suites take inspiration from artists, including Joan Miró (dark wood and gold touches nod to his primary-colour-based surrealist works) and Dali (the suite where the artist used to stay for extended periods has a canopied bed, red chinoiserie-style wardrobe and restored sunken Roman bath). Further draws include a vast garden rooftop, which has a pergola draped in orange-blossom and its own telescope to ogle Gaudi’s Sagrada Familia from on high, plus Amar Barcelona, where former El Bulli chef Rafa Zafra whips up seafood in the dark-blue and gold-columned surrounds. Best hotel for an all-inclusive family holiday: Ikos Andalusia Location: Estepona Providing the ultimate clap back to the dreaded “I’m bored” refrain is this 411-room resort on the sun-kissed coastline between Marbella and Estepona. A standout kids’ club is packed to the gills with arts-and-crafts activities, water sports, summer football academies (coached by ex-Premier League players) and musical sing-along sessions. Plus, there are nine palm-fringed swimming pools and seven restaurants (Asian through Spanish) to keep even the most hard-to-please guests happy. While the resort bubble has enough spaces, including an Anne Sémonin spa and bars with cocktails dreamt up by Marian Beke of Shoreditch’s Gibson, to ensure adults come back refreshed – exploring is encouraged with a day’s complimentary hire of a Tesla and a “dine out” concept, encompassing local restaurant visits. Best hotel for a bohemian break: Montesol Experimental Ibiza Location: Ibiza Long a favourite of hippy hedonists, the historic Montesol, in Ibiza Town’s main Paseo Vara de Rey square (favourite of Pink Floyd and Orson Welles), is packing fresh verve, thanks to a takeover and transformation by hip hotelier Experimental Group and designer-of-the-moment Dorothée Meilichzon. As well as a kick-back-and-relax rooftop bar for cava-topped hanami spritzes and Ibizan rooibos iced teas at sundown, expect celestial design touches, such as moon carvings, starry alcoves and brass suns. The 33 photogenic bedrooms come with puzzle-look zellige-tiled cabinetry, while walls have a beachy texture through hand-pressed shell imprints. As for food, enjoy delights such as top-notch tapas, watermelon and feta salad, squid brioche with lime mayo, patatas bravas and torrija (a Spanish bread pudding) with vanilla ice cream. Best hotels in the UK Best hotel for a seaside staycation: The Nici Location: Bournemouth Checking into this Miami-inspired hotel, moments from the golden sands of Bournemouth’s West Cliff, could be just the ticket for your next staycation. Not only is the hotel mere steps away from one of the UK’s finest beaches, its 30m outdoor pool is a joy – featuring mermaid-shimmer tiling, and ringed by bubblegum-pink parasols. Crucially, given the British weather, the pool is heated, and if you splash out on a curtained cabana, charming pool assistants will appear to offer chilled pineapple slices throughout the day. As for dining, golden palm-tree-adorned South Beach restaurant does Caesar salads and surf ’n’ turf. The 88 white and forest-green bedrooms deliver holiday vibes, with Art Deco-style drinks trolleys, pineapple-shaped glassware and ready-to-pour Whitebox negronis and cosmos. Miami nice, indeed. Best hotel for a boutique spa experience: Middleton Lodge Estate Location: North Yorkshire Proving you don’t have to jet overseas for a superlative spa break is this family-run estate, at the edge of England’s rugged Yorkshire Dales. As well as a walled garden, walkways fringed by rambling roses and rich-on-romance boutique accommodation housed in attractive stone farm buildings, there’s an appealing, earthy-feel Forest Spa. Framed by ancient woodland where lilting birdsong fills the air, there’s a spring-fed, al-fresco, 15m, heated swimming pool, with teal-striped loungers – there’s a touch of South of France allure here. There’s also as a meadow-view sauna and chilly tadelakt plunge pool. A relaxing pool house, complete with flickering fireplace, keeps things grounded with natural, neutral tones, seed-pod-inspired ceramics and floral prints. VOYA and Aromatherapy Associates treatments, which take place in cabins surrounded by wildflowers, ramp up the pamper levels. Price: Doubles from £185 a night Book now Best hotels in France Best hotel for style on a budget: Mama Shelter Rennes Location: Rennes, Brittany Mama Shelter, known for its more-is-more style, has outdone itself in Rennes. Set in lively square Place des Lices, inside a stone-fronted, listed building, this 119-room hotel has design exuberant enough to have Iris Apfel chortling with glee. Think ballet-slipper-pink bedrooms – some with original mouldings and fireplaces; bathrooms in monochrome zebra-stripe tiles, and a salmon-hued nana-chic dining room where everything, from tieback curtains to banquettes, are upholstered in sea creatures (and, yes, it’s where seafood platters are served). Entertainment wise, you’re spoilt for choice, with basement karaoke rooms, and a statement indoor swimming pool hung with wave-decorated ceiling canopies and neon artwork. There’s also a hammam, sauna and Mama Skin Spa. At sundown, head to the rooftop bar for grapefruit-gin cocktails and spectacular views of Rennes’s mediaeval bell towers and half-timbered houses. Best hotel for skiers: Portetta Location: Courcheval Ski in, ski out Portetta is the Alpine hotel to know. It’s located in Courchevel Moriond (1650), which is part of the Three Valleys, with more than 600km of runs, and the 30 cossetting rooms are upscale and inviting, with wood-panelled walls and crisp, white bedding. Plus, six loft rooms have roaring fires. There’s also a spa for post-run legs, with Bamford and Oskia treatments, As for fuelling up apres ski, head to Cucina Angelina, helmed by Angela Hartnett. The food is sensational – think the likes of pumpkin ravioli and sage butter with amaretti, alongside classic fondue and raclette. Backcountry ski touring trips through La Vallée des Avals – guided by experts from Le Bureau des Guides – can be arranged. Look out for marmots and ibex along the way. Price: Doubles from £465 a night Book now Best hotels in Greece Best hotel for show-stopping swims: Cali Mykonos Location: Mykonos While Greek isle Mykonos might be best known for its non-stop party atmosphere, Kalafati Beach on its more secluded eastern side – around 25 minutes from the airport – is home to Cali Mykonos, a 40-villa property carved out of the cliffside. Swimmers are spoilt for choice here, as each suite – which nails soothing Cyclades, with sleek lines and natural tones – has its own private pool. There’s also a 110m-long saltwater infinity pool (over double the size of an Olympic pool), which snakes along the cliff edge, with views of the shimmering Aegean. If that isn’t enough, head to the secluded private beach for peaceful, private sea dips. Another highlight is Lefteris Lazarou’s traditional Greek food, and a clever menu of mythology-inspired cocktails, including the likes of ‘the wings of thyme’, an olive-oil-infused tequila number with refreshing rosemary and lime. Best hotel for a wellbeing boost: Pnoé Breathing Life Location: Crete Living up to its name, Pnoé (meaning “breath”), this adults-only retreat on vibrant Karteros Beach, just outside ancient-ruin hotspot Heraklion, has been designed to foster pause. While the coastal locale – with craggy peaks and Cretan sea views – has a buzz to it (and is close to the airport, so no long-transfer faff), once you arrive at Pnoé, it’s all about powering down. Bowl fires light the entrance lobby, and on-arrival hot towels are infused with calming herbs. Hushed architecture is built in natural wood and Milatos stone, and the 60 suites, with private stepped pools, have earthy palettes. As well as top-notch spa treatments (Germaine de Capuccini, Dr Barbara Sturm), the hi-tech wellbeing space – where a stepping-stone walkway reinforces a go-slow state of mind – has a hyperbaric oxygen therapy pod, a Zerobody dry float (for the benefits of soaking without getting wet), one-to-one breathwork sessions, and a waterfall pool. There’s a private section of beach to laze on, fringed parasols by a teardrop-shaped main pool, and Thymises by Peskesi restaurant for authentic Cretan food, too. Best hotel for a ritzy multi-gen getaway: Amanzoe Location: Peloponnese For those able to splash serious cash on a family getaway, make like the cast of Glass Onion, and bed down at Amanzoe in the Peloponnese, not far from Porto Heli. Stunning Grecian scenery – olive groves paired with turquoise Aegean – is matched by 12 villas (with one to nine bedrooms) designed by architect James Tuttle. Each has Acropolis-of-one’s-own vibes, with stone-walled courtyards, smooth columns, marble flooring and private plunge pools. One even has its own James Turrell installation, Skyspace, with ceiling aperture for straight-from-room stargazing. As well as a private chef and villa host to keep things running in always-smooth Aman style, the beach club has a plethora of pools to keep the whole gang happy; watersports galore, and boat trips to visit car-free island Hydra, or to explore Spetses’s neoclassical mansions, can be arranged. Price: Doubles from £1,028 a night Book now Best hotels in Italy Best hotel for wildlife: Oasyhotel Location: Tuscany Wolves howl, honey buzzards soar overhead and green woodpeckers can be heard tap-tapping against tree trunks in swathes of regenerated forest – it’s Tuscany but not as you know it. Just an hour from Florence, 16-lodge Oasyhotel – within the 1,000ha, WWF-protected Oasi Dynamo Reserve in the San Marcello Piteglio mountains – offers perhaps Europe’s most exciting safari experience. On guided nature walks through the former-hunting-reserve-turned-protected-land, it’s possible to see wild boar, deer and goshawks, while wolf-spotting safaris offer an after-dark thrill. A raft of other activities span foraging, organic farm volunteering, wild swimming in a private lake, and spa treatments overlooking the water. Smart, pitch-roofed lodges, made from sustainably sourced wood, give a wrapped-in-the-forest feel, and the majority of produce used at the two farm-to-table restaurants comes from within a kilometre (grown on site or sourced nearby). Best hotel for la-dolce-vita opulence: Passalacqua Location: Lake Como It’s impossible not to get swept up in la dolce vita in this 18th-century mansion, which was once the private home of composer Vincenzo Bellini and is now an opulent 24-room boutique hotel. A 45-minute drive from Milan, in mountainside village Moltrasio, the hotel’s baroque-wow bedrooms feature restored frescoes, soft Beltrami bedding and mirrored chests, which open to reveal minibars, while Italian marble bathrooms are kitted out with Dyson hair appliances. Meanwhile, stairways are adorned with Barovier & Toso Venetian glass chandeliers. Outside, seven acres of jasmine-scented and olive-grove-filled gardens – including a swimming pool terrace and bocce court – tumble down towards the shores of Lake Como, where a duo of private boats are on hand to whisk guests across the water. Service is as sublime as the shimmering views, and activities include gelato-making and classic Italian film screenings under the starry sky. Best hotels in Czech Republic Best hotel for polished service: Mandarin Oriental Location: Prague While the setting – a former monastery dating back to the 14th century in Prague’s historic centre, the Malá Strana – might be serene, the reception at this 99-room property is always warm. Affable staff manage to appear at just the right time, proffering mini fluffy robes for kids, or providing insider tips on visiting the next-door Czech Museum of Music. Asian-inspired rooms have arched ceilings, muted palettes lifted by bursts of red and blue, and stone-clad bathrooms. The spa is also a real one-off – housed inside a former Renaissance Chapel, there’s a glass floor under which the original remains of a Gothic church can be seen, while intuitive therapists deliver the likes of Qi and four-hands massage. Best hotels in Belgium Best hotel for a flight-free escape: The Hoxton, Brussels Location: Brussels For city-break fans who prefer to dip in and out of the action, The Hoxton Brussels – housed inside a brutalist-inspired tower building in Brussels’s Northern Quarter – is a strong choice. Yes, it’s in the business district but, actually, it’s got a lot going for it: top live-music venue Le Botanique is next door, the iris-filled botanical gardens are close by, and it’s a 15-minute walk to the city centre (or you can hop on a free-to-use Cowboy ebike). As for the hotel itself, it riffs on its heritage and locale, with a 1970s brutalism-meets-botany aesthetic – think vintage chrome modular furniture and bedrooms with striped headboards, lily-shaped lighting and velvet sofas. There are two vibey restaurants: Peruvian-inspired Cantina Valentina, and Tope for rooftop tacos and weekend DJ sets. Those arriving by train – from a stay in another of The Hoxton’s European properties – can bag a €20 (£17) discount off each stay by taking advantage of “The Good Rate”. Handy, as the hotel’s only 15 minutes from the TGV, which has connections to the likes of London and Paris. Read more of our Europe hotel reviews: Best romantic breaks in Europe Europe’s best family-friendly hotels Best winter sun hotels in Europe Read more about Europe travel: Europe’s best road trips Best river cruises in Europe Best Northern Lights holidays Read More The UK’s 10 favourite beaches and seaside holidays in Europe Eight of Europe’s best road trips to try in your lifetime 10 of the world’s most beautiful Unesco World Heritage Sites The best European holiday destinations to travel to by train from London The 8 best winter sun holidays to book for 2023/24 8 best family adventure holidays in Europe that adults, teens and kids will love

With summer finally deciding to make an appearance in the UK, there’s no better time to book a reservation or two at your favourite restaurants with outside space in London. There’s nothing better than getting some of that much-needed vitamin D as you tuck into a delicious meal and whether you’re grabbing a quick lunch, dinner with friends or your date is going al fresco, there are plenty of options to choose from. While some pubs and restaurants have permanent outdoor seating areas, others actively create their own in the summer so that its patrons can enjoy a delicious meal al fresco as soon as the sun decides to come out. From pub gardens to rooftop terraces, there’s a number of spaces to soak up the sunshine with your favourite dish and a glass of something refreshing – and we’re here to help you find all the best places in the city to do just that. London is a foodie capital and at times dining options can be overwhelming. If you’re in need of some guidance for your next al fresco booking, look no further than our list below. Joia We’ll never say no to a new Portuguese restaurant opening up in London and new spot Joia does seem to be drawing in all the crowds. While its rooftop (complete with that swimming pool) has certainly nailed the Instagram aesthetic on the head, we can’t credit Joia’s success solely to this, having dined on its delectable menu ourselves. An excellent pan con tomate set the meal off to a great start (it can really go the other way, you see), followed by the classic Iberico ham croquettes – once again, it’s like a rite of passage with this type of cuisine. The classic tortilla secured a solid spot in our good books, while the grilled leeks and beef pica pau (a highly popular Portuguese snack dish) were also crowd-pleasers. The salted cod worked a charm. We loved the Josper-grilled prawns and recommend you definitely leave space for the arroz con leche (in this case, passionfruit cream rice pudding). joiabattersea.co.uk Luca Stepping into the terrace at Luca is like stepping straight foot in Italy. With exposed brick walls, plenty of shrubbery and a retractable roof, the one-Michelin-starred spot is the perfect way to while away the hours in true al fresco style. Enjoy everything the restaurant has to offer in this secluded oasis, from the must-get parmesan fries (cheese lovers will want several portions of these gooey churros) to the pasta made fresh every day in The Pasta Room (shouldn’t everyone have one of those?). During the summer, seasonal delights include Orkney scallops, Cornish lobster and Hebridean lamb. Wash that down with a house cocktail such as the Luca Martini or the Gold Negroni, or consult with head sommelier Enzo for something from their excellent wine list - the bone-dry Soave Classico Calvarino Pieropan gets our vote. luca.restaurant Florattica A newcomer to the terrace scene in London, Florattica sits above the Canopy by Hilton in East London. A hidden gem if you’re looking for understated luxury, the decor is full of floral designs and bold colours – accompanied by equally strong cocktails. Come rain or shine this little oasis is a great hideaway from the busy city, with both indoor and outdoor seating, where you can enjoy a variety of premium drinks from the bar and sharing snacks. The sourdough flatbread with whipped feta, peppers and rosemary jam was a particular standout, but there’s also oysters, a selection of sushi, teriyaki chicken skewers and more. floratticalondon.co.uk Sabine If you’re looking to soak up a great summer vibe alongside sipping signature cocktails, Sabine is the place for you. Offering a stunning view of St Paul’s Cathedral, as well as gorgeous sunset scenes and the Shard on the other side, Sabine is a great terrace for kicking back after a long day at work. With Sabina Coladas and dangerously good daiquiris on the menu (among other favourites, of course), it was only too easy to sit back, sip and snack on delicious bar bites such as pulled lamb or barbecue jackfruit tacos; tandoori prawn skewers; mac n cheese bon bons and much more. sabinelondon.co.uk Outcrop X AngloThai You have just over a month to catch the excellent collaboration between Outcrop and AngloThai at 180 The Strand – and it’s one that should not be missed. The leafy courtyard at the heart of London’s West end offers John Chantarasak’s signature (and spicy) Thai-British food, featuring oysters dressed in sea buckthorn and fermented chilli, curried flatbreads, zephyr squash tempura, som tam salad, vine leaf-wrapped hake, and much more. Wines are of the low-intervention, natural, barrelled variety and the cocktails pack a punch. Dine in dappled sunlight under the canopy to bops from DJs, selectors and collectors, then venture inside to take in the immersive art installation. No spoilers here. It’s worth seeing for yourself. outcrop.social Maene From oysters with pickled cucumber and sorrel to whipped ricotta, pickled beetroot, lemon thyme, there are plenty of delicious dishes to enjoy alongside a cocktail or two, while basking in the (occasional spot of) sun that graces this city. Other items from the menu that caught our eye include the Cornish mussels in smoked cider and butter sauce and we’d never say no to almond ice cream with poached rhubarb and black pepper sable. We can confirm the cocktails went down a treat but now it seems you’ll see us back for dinner, too. maenerestaurant.co.uk Kapara The little sister of Israeli eater Bala Baya, Kapara is the latest offering from chef Eran Tibi who has brought a taste of Tel Aviv to the streets of Soho. In addition to a variety of cocktails to be enjoyed on the terrace, we’d also recommend you not leave before trying the baklava prawns – one of our top favourite dishes in London – as well as the likes of the romano carpaccio, braised aubergine and tomato hummus and oxtail in pearls. kapara.co.uk Jurema at The Mandrake Simultaneously sultry and seasonal, Jurema at the Mandrake stays true to the hotel’s moody on-trend decor, while also making bringing a spot of summer to the terrace – courtesy of a hanging garden of suspended jasmine and passionflower. A main feature throughout the hotel (with all floors looking out onto it), it’s a great space to enjoy a drink (should you be tempted away from Waeska downstairs). Food-wise, it’s all from Yopo below so we knew it would be great and the terrace also offers a beautiful Sunday brunch where you can tailor your experience from free-flowing cocktails to unlimited Veuve Cliquot, alongside crab tostadas, wild mushroom buckwheat crepes and chorizo eggs benedict dishes. Coupled with a DJ and tarot reading, you’ll find yourself checking into a room (should there be availability) afterwards, never wanting to leave. themandrake.com Hotel AMANO Hotel AMANO is another secret terrace in the heart of central London – and it comes with a beautiful view of the city. Sip on chamapgne or choose one of the cocktails expertly created by the bar staff at the rooftop bar. The seventh floor is a true highlight of the London hotel. With dishes making their way up from the kitchen at Penelope’s (the hotel’s Israeli-Spanish restaurant downstairs), we’d say bar snacks have certainly stepped up in the form of salmon tiradito, black challah calamari (possibly our favourite in London), pan con tomate and much more. amanogroup.de The Landmark It’s one of London’s most well known hotels and for good reason. While the Landmark has no traditional terrace as such, its winter garden still makes for a magical sun spot – and is perhaps not such a bad idea when the city’s weather is so unpredictable. Whether you’re there to dine on the modern European menu or opt for a classic or seafood-themed afternoon tea, there’s plenty to feast upon at the Landmark and, if we do say so ourselves, the most elegant setting in which to do so. landmarklondon.co.uk The Sanderson While the Sanderson hotel normally draws people in for its iconic Long Bar and Mad Hatter’s afternoon tea, we’re here to tell you that you shouldn’t be quick to overlook the terrace either. The current pop-up in the garden is with The Uncommon, where you can enjoy a slice of escapism from central London alongside a mint and jasmine rosé wine spritzer. Known for its eco-friendly bubbly wine in a can, The Uncommon drinks are being used to create cool and carefully-crafted cocktails, perfect for summer. ennismore.com Madison Perhaps the OG when it comes to a view of St Paul’s, Madison is most known for its buzzing bar but its restaurant has long been on our radar, too. Whether you’re enjoying a bottle of rosé in the sunshine as you watch people taking photos of the impressive monument or you’re feasting upon dishes such as prawn linguine, swordfish steak or a mixed mezze plate, nothing quite says summer than this terrace. madisonlondon.net St Martins Lane While boasting a variety of dining concepts within the hotel, come summer we’re most interested in the outdoor terrace for some after work drinks. Currently home to TRIP, the terrace offers a quaint oasis just moments from the hustle and bustle of Leicester Square. Sip on refreshing cocktails which have all been inspired by the CBD drinks brand. St Martins Lane’s mixologists have expertly crafted such beverages, featuring the peach and ginger, elderflower and mint, and lemon and basil drinks. To be enjoyed best alongisde small plates such as spiced gazpacho, octopus carpaccio and much more on the main menu. ennismore.com Mama Shelter Forever a favourite in East London and across the globe, Mama Shelter is always a good time – and now that good time can be had on its terrace. Whether you’re making the most of the seasonal drinks pop up at the bar or simply enjoying your brunch (we love the chicken schnitzel and the pulled beef bao), this sun trap is a great spot to unwind come the weekend. mamashelter.com Bantof Blink and you’ll miss it – we’ll get onto the food and drink in a second but Bantof might just win the award for “secret terrace in the centre of London”. In the heart of Soho sits this tiny terrace, which offers the perfect escape to the hustle and bustle of the city – plus some good grub. Sit back with a great martini (though we did have our eye on the almond sour as a virgin digestif, too) and enjoy some seriously good padron peppers, one of the most tender-cooked octopus we’ve tried and an absolutely stunning sea bream tartare. Mains of lamb chops and sea bass certainly did not disappoint and if you’ve got room, there’s a chocolate mousse with your name on it. bantof.com The Hari Secret terraces do seem to be all the rage right now (or in this round up, at least) with even The Hari getting in on the action. This quaint little terrace is perfect for hotel guests or passerbys to sit back with a cocktail and enjoy some sun in a more relaxed environment. While you won’t find DJ beats and dancing, you can enjoy a delicious all-day dining menu featuring everything from oysters to beef brisket croquettes to a tagliata. Currently Malfy Gin has taken over the terrace so you can experience a little bit of Amalfi lifestyle in the heart of London. thehari.com Read More King’s Guard shares sweet exchange with young boy wearing royal uniform Internet sleuths turn to live-stream to help catch people fly tipping in London skip Where to find the best Guinness in London – and how to spot a bad one Is it heat exhaustion or are you just tired? Inside the multi-million pound homes on BBC’s new real estate show Crazy Rich Agents What to know about eating raw oysters safely

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