No longer are we satisfied with a glass of pinot on a scorching day, especially when there are so many weird and wonderful cocktails to be shaken, stirred and sipped. We got in touch with DesignMyNight.com who have provided us with this summer's hottest cocktail bars to bring a slice of adventure to our evenings...
Epernay
- Manchester
Epernay is regarded as one of Manchester's most sophisticated spots as it attracts an opulent crowd who seek the finer things in life. They stock 40 champagnes and 29 luscious cocktails so it's safe to say you'll be spoilt for choice when visiting. Their balcony is decked out in candles and fairy lights to add that extra bit of sparkle to your evening and can we say the view isn't too shabby either.
Moskito - Glasgow Although Moskito is known as a raucous basement venue, they have a charming courtyard area that reels in the city's party crowd come June onwards. During the week, young professionals can be seen sipping chilled cocktails and nibbling on delights from the venues food menu. Lists of small and larger bites are available but we recommend the olives - they're perfect for silencing peckish tummies.
Aeronaut - London Aeronaut brings plenty of life and soul to its venue with glamorous entertainment and tasty tipples. They have live circus and cabaret acts who give dazzling performances every week and a spacious outdoor area with a playful colour scheme. If you're a lover of Bloody Marys you'll be glad to know Sundays brings a bottomless offer for the juicy drink – bottoms up.
Barrio East - London
All the colours of the rainbow are used in Barrio East's award winning interior, giving the venue a jungle vibe that attracts an eclectic crowd. It has one of the best cocktail menus in East London as they boast mysterious concoctions sourced from all over the world. In the words of Jimmy Buffet: 'If you like Pina Coladas', we'd recommend the Gingerbread Colada for a cheeky twist on the old time favourite.
The Neighbourhood - Brighton The Neighbourhood is an independent bar in Brighton that hoards vintage collectables, mismatched furniture and locally produced art work to create a unique drinking den. They have a 100ft garden that yearns to be filled with revellers as the summer sunshine warms up its colourful furniture with its rays.
Devonshire Terrace - London Devonshire Terrace has not one, but two balconies in a courtyard terrace, one of which is covered by a glass roof so you can enjoy their delicious mixes whatever the weather. Choose from a bespoke collection of cocktails and take your taste buds on a trip of summertime flavour. The furnishings are very simplistic yet chic and make way for a relaxing experience any day of the week.
Bird of Smithfield - London The Bird of Smithfield rooftop garden is perched amongst the clouds on top of an old Georgian townhouse and can only be described as a hidden gem. It offers stunning views of the old Smithfields market and glides high above competition as it serves breakfast, lunch and mouth-watering cocktails. Bartenders use fresh ingredients to ensure the perfect fusion of flavours and you’ll be delighted to know that the menu is split into two sections, 'The Classics' and 'The Birds'.
Sky Garden - London Greenery can be hard to come across in London, especially when wandering around zone 1 – which is why Sky Garden is a massive breath of fresh air. It was designed by award-winning specialists who planned for the plants to flourish all year round in bursts of colour. We highly recommend this place as it boasts some of the best views in London.
Hannah's Bar - Liverpool Hannah's Bar is a stylish venue with a beautiful glass roof terrace presenting a crystal clear view of Liverpool's skyline. It’s conveniently situated in the middle of the city and is well known for hosting pleasure ridden entertainment. They shake up quite a few storms with their pretty in pink cocktail menu as it offers a varied selection of tipples – including the refreshing Berry Bramble.
Moroccan Sky Riad - London If you are to experience one thing this summer let it be a slice of Morocco at the Gherkin. Usually a private members club, they are opening their doors to the public for the very first time and we couldn't be any more excited. 7 weeks of shoulder swinging entertainment, delicious dishes and handcrafted cocktails in honour of Moroccan culture will be at your fingertips, not to mention impressive views of the world's most visited city!
For more great bars in London and other cities across the UK visit DesignMyNight.com and add them on Twitter @DesignMyNight.