This year’s John Lewis Christmas advert seemed to have us fooled at the start, taking a turn for the weird when a young boy becomes fast friends with a Venus fly-trap he’s growing which he thought would grow into a Christmas tree. After they’re separated they reconnect again in the spirit of Christmas and the advert takes a heartfelt U-turn right back to the wholesome adverts we know and love. In an effort to keep that festive feeling going and spread some Christmas cheer, John Lewis’ glittering winter rooftop is returning to Oxford Street once again, igloos and all.
Be wowed as you admire the glorious makeover at one of London’s largest rooftop bars, filled with places to relax by sitting down with hot drinks, seasonal cocktails and food courtesy of Kitchen Ventures; all while taking in the panoramic views across central London.
Dotted with igloos, or domes as they like to call them, alongside an impressive collection of fairy lights, Willows on the Roof is the perfect spot to kickstart, continue or close out your festive season. An array of seating options are on hand from the igloos of course (which we’ve heard gets booked up very fast), cosy chalet-inspired private huts that are great for a group of friends, to outdoor tables which handily come with a blanket to keep warm, and indoor seating if you don’t fancy the wintry al fresco vibe.
Grub-wise, sharing is caring seems to be the motto at Willows on the Roof this year as their main menu features a selection of sharing plates including sweet and spicy chicken wings, sweet potato fritters with coconut and lime leaf sauce, and pepper jam burgers that all sounds too good to share, to be honest. For those taking in the stunning London skyline in the comfort of their winter dome, there’s a dome-dedicated sharing board menu along with a festive set menu which includes welcome drinks, canapes, and a three-course menu if you want to go the whole hog.
An expert cocktail menu awaits at this glittering rooftop, expect festive specials such as the Gingerbread Ruby, Spiced Apple Martini, Pomegranate and Cranberry Margarita, and Cinnamon Apple Pie, all sounding as delightfully festive and decadent as the next.
There’ll also be a selection of beer, including Japanese beer on tap, a curated wine list, non-alcoholic drinks, and of course the holiday staples that are mulled wine and mulled cider to add some spice to your night.
This exciting winter installation is definitely worth a visit.
Opening hours are 12-10pm (Monday to Saturday), 12-9pm (Sundays). For more information and to book head to their website here.
📍 John Lewis, 300 Oxford Street, W1C 1DX.
🚇 The nearest station is Oxford Circus.