A dapper evening at Kensington Roof Gardens

There’s something about the beginning of summer, the scent in the air that lingers, dappled sunshine and lighter evenings that signals that the best things are around the corner.

Of course, this is the time that London truly comes out of its hibernation and chrysalises into its prime, but the steely grey of the city can leave you longing for an escape to greener pastures – fortunately, such romantic idylls could be closer than you imagine.

Entry to Kensington Roof Gardens is via an imposing entrance on Derry Street; guests are whisked up, Jacob’s Ladder style, to the top floor of 99 Kensington High Street and greeted by the sweeping, elegant interiors. The large windows means the venue is bathed in natural light with spectacular views of the gardens during the day, while the nighttime is a prime opportunity for star gazing.

Above: the Spanish Garden

Venture out through the doors on to the balcony and the gardens unfold, revealing a meticulously designed landscape some 100 metres up, secluded among the rooftops and spires of London. Visitors enjoy a journey through four distinct gardens, with Spanish, Tudor, English woodland and wildlife themes. Established in 1938, the gardens are home to a diverse range of flora and fauna and exotic birds, many of which are protected, making it something of a haven in our capital.

The Dapper Chapper team spent a memorable evening at the venue’s club, the only rooftop private members’ area of its kind in London. Cocooned in our own area, we were treated to sterling service by staff who ensured that a very important celebration – notably the birthday of our venerable editor and a successful evening at the UK Blog Awards – was seen out in nothing but the utmost style.

Everything was beautifully presented and the array of beverages on offer left very little to be desired. Stepping outside of our area, it was easy to join in with the fun on the dancefloor (and indeed we did) with the occasional retreat back to our ‘lounge’ area for bubbles and banter.

There’s no question that London treats its inhabitants well in the summer. However, Kensington Roof Gardens offers an experience to savour. As well as the rooftop club, there are a whole host of other facilities waiting to be explored for a memorable occasion.

To find out about this truly unique venue for yourself, visit www.virginlimitededition.com/en/the-roof-gardens