Spanning a massive 6,000-square-metres above Kensington High Street, The Roof Gardens is where West London's most discerning inhabitants hang out when the sun is shining down on our fair city. As the largest roof gardens in Europe - and there are a fair few! - visitors will find a Moorish-style garden based on the Alhambra in Spain, complete with fountains and palms, a Tudor garden characterised by vine-covered archways and hanging wisteria, and a classic English garden, featuring over 100 different species of trees and a traditional pond. It is amongst The Roof Gardens' flora and fauna that sundress-clad ladies and polo shirt-wearing gents can meander through the foliage, flutes of bubbling Champagne undoubtedly in-hand. Al fresco isn't for everyone, though, so those who prefer the shade to the sun can retreat inside to the glamorous Babylon restaurant on the seventh floor. With views out over the capital, the on-site restaurant is as gorgeously-designed as you'd expect, and is inspired by iconic 60s fashion brand Biba. With lime-green chairs, moody damask wallpaper and a garden-esque pattern emblazoned on the front of its bar, guests can enjoy high-flying style while indulging in substantial, world-class British cuisine. The adjoining Club awaits for those gasping for a nightcap, with a breathtaking pink theme camper than Elton John's very own boudoir. With a hot-to-trot crowd dancing to the slickest R&B, hip-house and house, it doesn't get more chic than this. Owned by Richard Branson and part of Virgin Limited Edition - a luxury portfolio of properties that includes Necker Island - The Roof Gardens is the only place to party this summer. Be sure to pack your moviestar-style shades, though - the glare of the paparazzi outside can be stronger than that of the sun.
www.roofgardens.virgin.com / Images: Virgin Limited Edition