Sunshine is a rare treat for us Londoners, so make the most of it with our selection of the capital's finest clubbing terraces.

As a nation of sun-worshippers, when the big yellow ball in the sky starts to wake from its eight-month hibernation and we begin to feel its nostalgic warmth on our faces, it's time to get out there and do what we do best as a nation: have a party. Thankfully our capital has gifted us with a host of venues to enjoy the sunshine while we rave, so grab your sunglasses and a summer cardi as we take you through London's best clubbing terraces.
It's a fact: we love the Big Chill family. One of the many reasons is the roof terrace at The Big Chill House, King's Cross. Every year the stylish space plays host to monthly rooftop parties running until September. Expect a quintessentially Big Chill music policy of soul, funk, reggae, and Latin beats with a laid-back sun-kissed crowd.
Fancy rooftop sun-lounging in the heart of Shoreditch? Love ukulele bands? Annoyed at never being able to enjoy both at once? Well it seems the Queen of Hoxton are here to help. Their brilliantly quirky rooftop gardens are home to not only a cocktail shack and BBQ but, yes, a ukulele band. Open until 10pm every day, there's no better way to sun yourself in Shoreditch.
Situated in Greenwich, THAT (the House and Terrace) club laughs in the face of those who meekly say “it's a bit chilly, shall we go inside?” hosting London's largest outdoor terrace where clubbers can party outdoors until the small hours. Secretsundaze, London's longest running and most popular summer party, is hosting 2011's opening event here, reinforcing its reputation as the capital's finest outdoor raving spot.
This newly revamped Hackney warehouse has already stamped its mark on the East London party scene with a brilliantly grimy warehouse space, hosting Soul Clap and Modeselektor in the first few months of 2011. The huge roof terrace, which opens in June, boasts panoramic views of the city from Canary Wharf right across to the Barbican and will hold screenings, exhibitions and parties throughout the summer months. Definitely one to keep your eyes peeled for.
London by its nature is a low city, which means that we can enjoy rooftop parties at a sensible height rather than in say, Dubai, where top-floor terrace parties are only really enjoyed by extreme daredevils and potential suicides. Nestled at a safe height above a pub on Brixton High Street, Dex is home to two tiers of Balearic rooftop bliss which won't have you clinging onto the railings in fear of a strong wind. You can enjoy the long summer nights from the comfort of the hot tub, Hugh Heffner-style, or get an al-fresco groove on at an all-day party, featuring the likes of disco Godfather Greg Wilson.
Cargo, tucked away in Shoreditch's Rivington Street, has over the years established itself as a cornerstone of East London terrace parties. Standing on the decking, drink in hand in the shade of a palm leaf you almost forget you're in London. For 2011 they look to continue the trend with a selection of weekend events aimed squarely at sun-drenched partying.
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