You’ll want to make the most of the sunshine on the longest day of the year and really soak up those rays. Richmond Upon Thames may have been crowned the ‘’happiest borough’’ in a recent survey, but where is the sunniest spot you can find? It’s in fact Richmond’s neighbour Kew Gardens which enjoys the most hours of sunshine with 1963 hours of sunlight a year! We’ve selected some of the best suntraps the city has to offer to really boost your mood this summer solstice.

1. The Lighterman (3 Granary Square, London N1C 4BH)
Start your day with brunch outdoors. This state-of-the-art venue in Kings Cross has wrap-around terraces – perfect to grab brunch in the sun with friends. You’ll love soaking up the atmosphere as you top up your tan as this canalside location is great for people watching. This summer, the Lighterman is even hosting a pop-up with Mirabeau rosé to give you a true taste of the French Riviera in the heart of London.

2. Kew Gardens (Kew Gardens, Kew Gardens Rd, Richmond)

Be at one with nature and really make the most of the outdoors on the longest day of the year. The UNESCO World Heritage Site Kew Gardens is home to over 50,000 plants for you to discover as you stroll around or simply sunbathe in the grounds. Check out The Mediterranean Gardens with its Tuscan Olive Trees to really get that summer feeling!

3. Aragon House (247 New Kings Rd, London SW6 4XG)

It’s an unwritten rule that as soon as the sun’s shining, Londoners must dash to their nearest beer garden! Where better to sip rosé or grab a pint than Aragon House in Parsons Green? It’s one of the best kept secrets in South West London, with its private booths complete with sunken ice buckets to keep your drinks cool. You’ll love its extensive al fresco dining menu which you can enjoy while catching up with friends for hours in the sunshine!

4. Regents Park Open Air Theatre (The Regent’s Park, Inner Cir, London NW1 4NU)
Get a true feeling of summer in the city at this award-winning outdoor theatre, set in the beautiful surroundings of Regent’s Park. With a vibrant programme of plays, musicals and operas, there’s something for everyone. It’s a truly memorable way to mark the occasion of summer solstice with a dose of culture whilst you enjoy this unique outdoor setting.

5. Seabird Rooftop Restaurant (14th Floor, South Bank, 40 Blackfriars Rd, London SE1 8NY)

Get the best views of the city’s skyline at the top of The Hoxton as the sun sets on the hottest day of the year. This totally Instagrammable rooftop will make your jaw drop as you soak up the atmosphere with their extensive cocktail list and Mediterranean inspired plates. You won’t want to miss the live DJ sets throughout summer at Seabird to get you in the party mood for those memorable summer nights.