For those who solely head to the Alps for the après-ski rather than tackling a black diamond, London's top restaurants and rooftop bars have turned to introduce winter terrace spaces for the festive season. Aiming to match the same vibe without the flight to Geneva. From a fireside fondue overlooking the high-rise buildings of Shoreditch, to Michelin-starred mince pies and caviar blinis in a glittering Mayfair setting, each spot offers its own cosy escape from the London Christmas rush. Just leave the salopettes and ski boots at home…
10 Winter Terraces in London for an Après-Ski Feel
Words by
Pippa Lowe and Lara Finn
6th December 2024
We’re all familiar with al fresco dining, but when winter arrives, restaurants and bars in London take things up a notch with winter terraces. We've curated a list of 10 spots that capture the après-ski atmosphere we crave – no trip to the Alps required.
Don Julio x Rosewood - For the warmth of Tequila
Rosewood London and Don Julio 1942's immersive terrace 'Hacienda 1942' inspired by the agave fields of Jalisco
Iconic Holborn hotel, Rosewood London and Don Julio 1942 invite you to step into "Hacienda 1942" – a stunning, immersive terrace inspired by the agave fields of Jalisco, open from November 2nd, 2024, to January 10th, 2025. Sip on signature cocktails like the Sacred Wood and Hot Xocolatl, each made with Don Julio 1942 tequila, while indulging in a mouthwatering menu curated by Executive Chef Fernando Corona Burch. Think Grilled Baby Corn, Baja Fish Tacos, and Beef Tongue Tacos, with a luxury sharing dessert and hot chocolate options to sweeten the experience. A warming spot to unwind with DJs spinning live on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays.
Book a table at the Hacienda 1942 terrace here
Boundary Shoreditch - For a Fireside Fondue
Enjoy Boundary’s signature bubbling Cheese fondue
This winter, escape the city chill and head to Boundary Shoreditch's rooftop that has been transformed into a cosy alpine haven. Enjoy an Alps inspired menu whilst soaking in the sparkling view from the heated glass Orangery, or on milder nights from the outdoor heated terrace. Nothing screams alpine more than a warming cheese fondue. Indulge in Boundary's bubbling cheese fondue savoyard alongside tempting dishes like Maldon rock oysters or share a baked mont d’or or raclette served with charcuterie. To aid in fighting the chill select a winter warming drink to sip on. From house made vin chaud to expertly crafted seasonal cocktails you will find a tipple to fight the cold.
For lunch or dinner reservations in the Orangery book now.
Sky Garden - For a Skyline View
Enjoy Moët & Chandon's Festive pop-up at Sky Garden's Christmas in the Clouds
Enjoy a Moët & Chandon pop-up with a view like no other at Christmas in the Clouds at Sky Garden. Step into a winter wonderland with stunning city views and festive charm, blending cocktails, live music, and seasonal festivities for an unforgettable holiday celebration. The music of ALR and a late-night DJ set the tone making it the perfect festive escape. Take your pick of the unique Moët & Chandon cocktails they have to offer from the 22nd Century to a Raspberry 75 all topped with only the best Moët & Chandon Impérial Brut. For an even more spectacular view head two floors up to the alpine terrace for raclette. If that’s not your speed savour a three-course feast or tasting menu at Darwin Brasserie or Fenchurch Restaurant—both offering exceptional dining experiences that will delight every palate.
Open from the 18th of November explore the festive offers at the Sky Garden with Moët Chandon here.
Scott's Mayfair - For Stepping into a Christmas Film
Experience 'It's a Wonderful Life' at Scott's of Mayfair this Christmas
Inspired by the classic ‘It’s a Wonderful Life’, Scott’s of Mayfair transforms the festive season into a cinematic experience. Picture a heated dining terrace shimmering under a starry night sky—straight out of a holiday film. Enjoy seafood classics from caviar and blinis to lobster and Dover sole alongside apple pie or lemon posset for dessert. Don’t forget to add the Nyetimber pairing menu to complete your meal in style. Looking for something more exclusive? Reserve one of Scott’s two private dining rooms for a bespoke celebration tailored to you.
Book your festive celebration at Scott’s Mayfair here.
Pan Pacific London - For a Festive Afternoon Tea
Indulge in a festive afternoon tea at Pan Pacific London
Wondering where to find London’s tallest Christmas tree? Look no further than Pan Pacific London at Bishopsgate Plaza. This breath-taking 67-foot tree, illuminated by 65,000 lights, is impossible to miss—literally. After admiring the display, indulge in a festive afternoon tea, beautifully presented with seasonal delights such as Rudolph pecan tart and a mint chocolate macaron wreath. The hotel's signature restaurant, Straits Kitchen, offers a four-course festive experience menu and a warming Sunday winter roast. For a more casual setting, Ginger Lily Bar & Lounge serves up festive cocktails and finger foods, alongside a Pierre Marcolini cart offering elevated hot chocolates and chocolate cocktails.
Don’t miss this unforgettable Christmas experience—book now!
Dovetale - For a Michelin Starred Mince Pie
Dainty mince pies by Tom Sellers at Dovetale
Dovetale's terrace at 1 Hotel Mayfair is turning into a festive fantasy land, where woodland huts await to transport you to a winter escape. At the heart of this wonderous winter village? Michelin-Starred chef, Tom Sellers' mouthwatering mince pies, crafted to perfection with the rich flavours of The Singleton Whisky. These sweet treats, served grab-and-go style, are the perfect festive bite to enjoy alongside a pint of Guinness or a warming whisky sip. Whether you're indulging in sizzling bratwursts, sipping hot cocktails, or cosying up with fondue, Dovetale promises to be Mayfair's ultimate winter hideaway.
Dovetale's Winter Village is walk-in only and is now open 7 days a week after only being open for 5 during November, head down before the 5th January 2025 and find out more here
The Montague - For a chalet in the city
A dazzling display at The Montague on the Gardens ski lodge
Tucked away in the bustling Bloomsbury streets, the Ski Lodge at The Montague on the Gardens is back to provide an alpine city escape, turning the hotel’s Wood Deck into a snowy alpine haven until December 30, 2024. Think pine trees, reindeer, fairy lights, and a bar stocked with schnapps and flights of homemade Christmas-flavored vodkas including mandarin, toffee, and candy cane (£18 per flight). Warm up with mulled wine, hot spiced cider, or a steaming cup of hot chocolate, and indulge in a festive platter of bratwurst, prawn tempura, and deep-fried camembert (£21 per person). For those seeking an even more secluded retreat, the adjacent Winter Lodge offers crackling fireplaces, warm throws, and comfort food like gourmet cheese fondue, with crusty bread and new potatoes (£50 for two).The Winter Lodge will be with us all the way up until the 31st March 2025.
Booking is essential, particularly in the run up to Christmas, so make sure you get you name in before bookings fill up here
J Sheeky – For an Oyster or two
Indulge in a couple of oysters and espresso martinis at J Sheeky
For those seeking a more glamorous celebration visit the historic J Sheekey, found on St. Martin's Court. Inspired by the "Pearls of J Sheekey," the restaurant will be adorned with grand, ocean-themed décor. Enjoy six varieties of seasonal oysters or caviar pearls to embrace the pearl theme or opt for the set menu. Featuring dishes like stilton Welsh rarebit gougères and roast Devonshire chicken & chestnut pie this menu will please even the most discerning tastes. Sip on Guinness cocktails whilst enjoying live jazz on Sundays creating a magical atmosphere.
The Pearls of J Sheekey Festive Set Menu & Guinness specials are available from the 14th November.
Visit J Sheekey on St. Martin's Court for Pearls of J Sheekey
Coq D'argent - For Cognac Connoisseurs
Enjoy the warming menu at Coq d’Argent in partnership with Courvoisier
Lodge d’Argent is back! This year, in collaboration with French cognac brand Courvoisier, bringing a slice of French charm to the heart of the City of London. Sneak away into a cosy chalets with up to six guests, these are available daily with a. Enjoy sharing plates, featuring delights like Provençal olives, truffle mayo Pommes frites, and honey mustard cocktail sausages. For something more indulgent, try French cheeses, a whole Baked Boite chaude, or artisanal charcuterie. The cocktail menu is a treat in itself, with creations featuring Couvoisier of course, in addition to the signature rosemary-infused Coq d’Argent cocktail and Espresso Martinis being shaken up table-side from a Martini trolley.
Visit Lodge d'Argent at Coq D'argent and book yourself a chalet here
The Campaner - For a Tapas and Wine Vibe
This winter, The Campaner, Chelsea’s chic Catalonian restaurant, is transforming its terrace into a cosy haven, perfect for escaping the chill. With blankets, outdoor heaters, and views over Garrison Square, guests can enjoy hearty Catalonian dishes and Spanish favourites in warmth and style. The restaurant is offering enticing promotions, including a weeknight happy hour from Tuesday to Friday, where every drink ordered comes with a free second. Sundays bring a taste of Catalonian tradition with L’Escudella, a hearty broth with meat-filled pasta, sausage, and more, served with wine for £59 per person. Plus, the first Sunday of each month features live Rumba Catalana music, adding a festive, cultural touch to the experience.
Book a table at The Campaner here
