As the temperatures rise and the clouds begin to clear up, it’s about time we all started heading outdoors. If you live in central London, you probably already know that this is easier said than done – there may be a good choice of parks that you can visit, but none that really offer the same sense of privacy that a garden does. Fortunately, plenty of central London properties come fully equipped with their very own roof terraces, so feeling the wind in your hair has never been easier.

Your roof terrace is your own space, high above the busy city, and this means that you can be creative in the ways that you use it. Yes, it’s nice to sit on your roof and take in the views, but there are plenty of other ways that you can make use of this feature. We’ve put together a list of our favourite ideas to get you inspired.

Get Grilling

Imagine that it’s a Saturday afternoon: the sun is shining and you’ve got an empty roof terrace at your disposal. Phone your friends and grab your spatula, because this calls for a BBQ. Most London rooftop venues claim to have the best BBQ spots in the city, but you’ll be able to tailor your day to suit your needs – without ever having to leave your building.

While everybody in the park is competing for the best spot, you will already be kicking back with a freshly grilled burger and an ice cold beer. Plus, roof terraces have the added benefit of extra exposure to sunlight, because they generally aren’t blocked by any surrounding buildings or trees, so you can make the most of your day in the sun.

Host a Rooftop Party

London is known for providing sky-high party experiences, but with a rooftop at your disposal, why don’t you throw your own? With the warmer nights and your landlord’s permission, you’ll be able to make full use of your rooftop space.

If you’re looking to make your gathering stand out, we suggest installing some battery-powered fairy lights to create an ambient atmosphere for your guests when it gets darker in the evening. Give your rooftop that high-end feel by creating a comfortable space with cushions and blankets for when it gets colder, and choosing a theme for your party will help you to throw a party that will fill your friends with envy.

Have a Spa Day

When the BBQs and beers get too much, you can use your terrace to give yourself a bit of TLC. Choose a quieter point in the day – early evening is best – and make the most of the private and serene atmosphere in your own little haven above the busy city.

Your roof terrace is the ideal spot to put on a relaxing playlist and feel the wind on your face – the perfect way to recover after that rooftop party.

Take in the Views

There is no denying that London is a vibrant place with one of the world’s most attractive skylines. If you’re lucky enough to have access to a rooftop terrace, it’s worth taking ten minutes out of your day to soak in the atmosphere of the city.

London is a hive of activity, and regardless of the direction you choose to look, your roof terrace will put you in a good position to take in the hustle and bustle of the city. Whether you choose to watch the swarms of people on their way to work or the sun setting behind the Shard, there’s plenty for you to see from high above it all.

Experience London Without Leaving Your Building

London is known for its outdoor spaces that are tucked away in the corners of busy city life, its assorted nightlife, and its exceptional choice of daytime activities when the sun is shining. If you live in an apartment with access to a rooftop terrace, you have the ability to bring all of that to you, so you can experience London without ever having to leave your building.

Living With Us - Essential Living

Amy Hirst

Author

Championing brand ambassadorship, Amy builds relationships with the coolest bloggers across London, mixing her own love for the capital with that of each blogger's experience.