queen of hoxton - staircase art rules

Rooftop Film Club

Saturday night was my first of many alternative summer cinema experiences. First up, Rooftop film club at the ever popular Queen of Hoxton, to see quite possibly my favourite film ever, La Vita e Bella. And i can tell you, the experience was just magical. So things you should know... 1. the seats are so bloody comfy 2. they provide the softest blankets ever 3. the wireless headphones sound quality is awesome 4. there is an in-house/on roof bar-b-q, as well as a popcorn machine for movie munchies 5. there's a bar within reaching distance 6. amazing city views 7. it's only £9 and 8... do you actually need anymore reasons? Check out the programme for the rest of the summer on their site. But be warned, these movies sell like hot cakes, so i recommended you sign up for their e-letter, giving you a heads up on ticket sales.

southbank roof gardens

What a perfect place to pop in to, or should i say pop up to, for a meet and drink. Even on a cloudy grey day, like you see in these pics. This roof garden is on top of the Queen Elizabeth Hall and was specially created for the Festival of Britain celebrations. It's such a great space and i can tell you, it feels very wholesome to be drinking amongst a wild flower meadow, fruit trees and allotments!

this is one scary ass scarecrow!

mmmm...corgette flowers....stuffed with ricotta and deep fried...yum.

South Bank eco project

Another great addition to the S.B, is this new staircase, made incidentally, from shipping containers and palettes. How i ever coped without this new walkway i don't know, so I hope they keep it here. Created as a ''vehicle for exploring and reclaiming our urban environment'', it is a great example of upcycling architecture. The planting scheme is even irrigated from water pumped from the Royal Festival Hall. I love how it has become a communal chill out and picnic area...as well as making my commute a lot easier!

the southbank skamp

Nestled in the bottom of the Royal Festival Hall, is a great little exhibition celebrating the amazing 1951 Festival of Britain. My favourite bit? This gorgeous video documenting the adventures of a cute little tow rag, who i like to call 'the southbank skamp'. With not a penny to his name, little S.S  makes his way south of the river, for a day of mischief and merriment...

''i need to get me one of those balloons...''

''mmmm, that sandwich looks good. hope he doesn't finish it...''

''now, this is the way to travel''

''gently...gently...got it! Now where can i get my penny?

''i could get used to this!''