We’re fully in the swing of spring, but many of us are already thinking ahead to summer.
More specifically, we’re trying to work out which of London’s outdoor terraces we need to book now, to make the most of the sunshine when it finally hits.
But finding the perfect spot to enjoy a spritz is easier said than done, especially as everyone and their mother will be planning to do the same.
As such, we at Metro won’t, in good conscience, gatekeep one of our favourite spots for drinking and dining al fresco.
Here’s everything you need to know about it…
Where’s London’s best summer terrace?
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Like with all the best things in life, you’ll have to put in a little work if you want to enjoy this place. That’s because, for many Londoners, it’s going to be a bit of a trek – all the way to one end of the District Line, to be precise.
The terrace in question can be found at Scott’s in Richmond, a stunning riverside spot that overlooks the Thames.
While it’s not quite on the roof of the restaurant, you’re at the ideal height to sit back and enjoy incredible, uninterrupted views of the water and the wide, open sky above.
This scene becomes even more magical if you time your visit right to see the sun start to set, as you’re in the perfect spot to watch the sky become a vibrant canvas covered in shades of orange and pink, as the sun dips below the horizon.
And if you’re someone who can’t resist snapping a pic for the ‘gram, this is the place to really make the most of that golden hour glow.
What’s the vibe?
For Spring 2026, Scott’s Richmond has partnered with Silent Pool Gin to turn the terrace into a botanical garden.
The ceilings and windows are covered in realistic-looking wisteria, cascading leafy green vines, and lots of lemons, which all add fantastic pops of colour and almost make you feel like you’ve been swept off to Italy.
And you don’t have to panic at all about getting chilly when the sun goes down, as there are plenty of gloriously cosy blankets dotted around, and the terrace is heated too.
What’s on the menu?
There’s a limited-edition Spring drinks menu, featuring several cocktails crafted with Silent Pool Gin, with prices starting from £13.
A real highlight is the Silent Bloom Spritz (£15), which combines Silent Pool Gin, Silent Pool Rose Expression, tawny port, lemon juice, orange bitters, and Fever-Tree orange and raspberry soda.
A refreshing change from your average Aperol, it’s an elegant, fruity and slightly bitter drink that tastes like summer in a glass.
Fans of Royal Ascot can also enjoy one of the signature drinks from the races – the Royal Ascot Blush (£15).
Served at the event each year, it features Silent Pool Gin, raspberry, lemon, plus Fever-Tree lemonade, and is finished with the Ascot Silent Pool Gin Raspberry and Mint Aroma Garnish.
This is the ideal drink for those who prefer something that tastes a little less boozy and a little more fruity. It’s deliciously sweet and smooth, which means it goes down far too easily.
However, if none of those are quite right, there’s always the bar’s signature selection of drinks to choose from, including a French 75 or White Negroni, as well as classics like a Cosmo, Margarita or Martini.
Mocktails are on the menu, and you can eat on the terrace too, which is a plus, as Scott’s other location in Mayfair was recently named one of London’s most iconic restaurants, and they share the same dishes.
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The à la carte offering includes plenty of seafood – the restaurant’s specialty – with everything from sushi to dressed crab, sautéed monkfish cheeks, and seared scallops.
There’s lobster too, of course, plus meat dishes with sirloin steak, Iberico pork chops, and roasted Devonshire chicken breast.
Don’t skip dessert either. The lemon madelienes, made to order and served warm, are a real treat.
Tempted to give the place a try? You can enquire about booking online at scotts-richmond.com, just make sure you select the ‘outside’ option to let them know it’s terrace seating you’re after.
And while you’re in Richmond…
If you’re going to check out Scott’s, you’ll also want to swing by Richmond Park.
While there, head on over to the Isabella Plantation, London’s hidden woodland garden, so beautiful it has to be seen to be believed.
First established in the 1830s, the plantation features an extensive collection of Azaleas, as well as Rhododendron, Magnolia, and Camellia, plus various ponds and ‘unusual’ trees, shrubs and herbaceous plants.
The Azaleas bloom in various shades of pink, purple, and red towards the end of April and into May, and they are a real sight to see.
Metro’s senior lifestyle reporter, Courtney Pochin, visited last Spring and would encourage everyone to see it if they have the chance, as it ‘took her breath away’.
She said: ‘The colours are so vibrant at their peak, and they’re everywhere. It’s so different compared to the rest of Richmond Park, you feel as if you’ve been transported into a fairytale land.
‘Some people will call it a secret garden, but it’s clearly the worst-kept secret in London, as it gets incredibly busy and tourists flock from all over to see the flowers.
‘It didn’t put me off going, it’s just something to keep in mind.
‘I’d definitely recommend going on a weekday if you can, to avoid the crowds and enjoy nature without worrying about walking into someone’s TikTok or Instagram shot.’
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