Ah, Bloomsbury. The heartland of the capital’s intellectual elite. Home to UCL, the British Museum and, over the years, some of England’s greatest cultural forces – including Virginia Woolf and the Charleses Dickens and Darwin. Its many accolades also include being the hub of the British suffragette movement and one of the inspirations behind George Orwell’s dystopian classic 1984.
But despite its storied history and renowned residents, there’s one thing Bloomsbury has never boasted: a rooftop venue. Yep, this central London neighbourhood has been without an al fresco rooftop upon which to sup a tasty tipple and command a view of the bustling streets below.
At least, that is until now. The Imperial Hotel has announced it is launching a new venue which will let you marvel from above at the area’s art deco architecture and the magnificent London skyline beyond.
When it launches this summer, Arcus will be a rooftop bar and restaurant with near-360-degree views stretching across the city skyline, from St Paul’s Cathedral to the London Eye.
The 330-seat venue will spread across 327 square metres, making it one of the larger rooftop venues the Big Smoke has to offer. Overlooking Russell Square, its high tables and cosy lounge areas will be open to both the public and guests at the swanky hotel.
Arcus will serve food from brunch, moving on to small plates and cocktails in time for the sunset. Live music and late-night DJ sessions will set the vibe. Plus, the hotel has hinted at wellness-centred activities too, including early morning sound baths and sun salutations.
The exact opening date of the new venue hasn’t been revealed yet, but we know it’ll open its doors some time this summer. When it does, you’ll find it at 61-66 Russell Square, Bloomsbury, WC1B 5BB.
The best rooftop bars in London, according to Time Out.
Did you see that three rooftop bars will open on top of a west London landmark next month?
Plus: London’s iconic Trocadero is being turned into one of the city’s biggest Wetherspoons pubs.
Get the latest and greatest from the Big Smoke – from news and reviews to events and trends. Just follow our Time Out London WhatsApp channel.
Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out London newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox.
