Unless you happen to work in the City or on the banks of the Thames, it’s rare for most Londoners get the chance to really appreciate the capital in all its teeming, hazy enormity.

The Venue
The reason that the London Eye is so popular, and not just with tourists is that we love to look at London and say, Look! That’s where I live! Which is why The Heights, fifteen floors up in the St George’s Hotel, is worth a visit. Were it not for the spectacular views stretching out in all directions it would just be another bland, characterless hotel bar, all leatherette pouffes, brass trim, patterned carpet and uniformed lackeys.

But that view, that view… it strikes you like an intake of breath as you come out of the lifts, and all subsequent conversations take place under its gaze; it’s so hard to tear your eyes away. There’s London: right there. There’s Oxford Street; there’s Regent Street; there’s the river, Hyde Park, Marble Arch. And beyond (if you’re lucky) there’s Wembley, Canary Wharf, Hampstead Heath.

The Atmosphere
Drag yourself away from that vista, though, and there’s plenty to look at inside. The Heights is much frequented by the BBC, being just around the corner, and you stand a pretty good chance of recognising someone off the telly or earwigging on a deal being thrashed out for a new sitcom.

The Food and Drink
Table service somewhat justifies the above-average bar tariff, and a generous bowl of peanuts (served with a spoon) will make you feel welcome. Don’t risk asking for anything too street, though; a request for a vodka-Red Bull for instance will be met with raised eyebrows.

The bar snacks and tapas are surprisingly good value, but if you fancy something more there’s an a la carte menu in the adjoining restaurant area too.

The Last Word
The Heights may not be at the cutting edge of London’s bar scene, but it’s a great place to take parents, relatives and other out-of-towners, or even as a venue for a romantic drink a deux. And next time you’re shopping on Regent Street, why not head there for a pit-stop: when you’re tired of London’s crowds it’s the best way to remind yourself why you’re here.

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