5 restaurants with a great view

The Skylon was a temporary space-age structure built for the Festival of Britain that symbolised post-war optimism. It stood next to the Royal Festival Hall, where this restaurant, which serves modern European cuisine in a smart setting, is now situated on an upper floor overlooking the river Thames. In addition to the concerts and cultural events that take place here, it is another good reason to visit.

After spending a few hours taking in the art collections, special exhibitions and buildings at Tate Modern you’ll very likely need a sit down, and probably some food as well. This restaurant is located on an upper floor of the original power station building, has full length windows and enjoys wonderful, ever-changing views across the river towards St Paul’s cathedral and the city beyond. It’s not especially cheap, but the revenues support the work of the gallery.

Occupying the 33rd floor of the enormous yet somehow elegant Shard building, this upmarket restaurant serves Sichuan and North Chinese cuisine. The panoramic views here are really special indeed, even from the toilets that are precipitously positioned right up against the glass. The food is high quality and authentic.

The restaurant at the Portrait Gallery is right at the top of the building, and it offers tremendous views of the central London skyline. The view extends across Trafalgar Square, taking in Nelson’s Column, Whitehall, Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament and as far as the London Eye on the South Bank. It’s open for breakfast, lunch and afternoon tea as well as some evenings, serving modern British fare.

This dining boat trip offers a unique London experience: enjoy a superb five course seasonal British seafood set menu whilst serenely enjoying rarely glimpsed views of the city. The intimate environs of the Prince Regent canal boat are charmingly appointed, with galley kitchen and friendly service. Starting and finishing in Little Venice the three hour trip along the Union Canal takes in Regents Park, London Zoo, Primrose Hill and Camden.