Sail into summer on the back of a giant swan while enjoying a glass of champagne at Flora, the outdoor terrace at the Sofitel London St James.

The capital’s new most covetable outdoor space has been created in partnership with Moët & Chandon, and has been designed by exciting experiential architect Meredith O’Shaughnessy. Taking inspiration from St James’s Park next door, the terrace is adorned with hints to London’s flora and fauna including lush green plants, white flowers and two impressive hand-carved swan seats. The terrace also features etched poems by Amy Levy that pay tribute to London’s plane tree as well as swan-focused artworks that evoke the elegant beauty of British summers.

‘We wanted to create an immersive experience to delight guests that feels classically British and a response to both our relationship to place and planet. Told through planting, art and poetry, Flora at Sofitel London St James envisages London as a city-forest teaming with beautiful plants and wildlife, providing guests with the perfect summer backdrop to celebrate and enjoy incredible flavours,’ said Meredith O’Shaughnessy, CEO, Meredith Collective.

Celebrated chef Anthony Demetre has created a menu of seafood-focused dishes, including what must be London’s prettiest and most delicious lobster roll, plus oysters, dressed crab and grilled octopus – all of which pair perfectly with crisp and bright Moët & Chandon Impérial, or Moët & Chandon Rosé Impérial, available by the glass or bottle, as well as a collection of summer-focused floral cocktails.

Flora is open at the Sofitel London St James until 30 September and will feature live music every Saturday afternoon – book early to reserve your place to celebrate the great British summer in consummate style.

sofitelstjames.com