Lockdown restrictions are easing and the sun is shining, parks are packed out and beer gardens will soon be bursting at the seams (in a socially distanced manner, of course).
We're often told to look up in our city and if you do, you may spy one of many amazing rooftop bars from where you can get a glorious view over Glasgow while sipping on a summer cocktail.
There's been a growing number of beautiful roof terraces popping up in the city in recent years, many of which we've featured on the site, the spots where you can soak up the sun in style.
Yet, just recently we stumbled across stunning photos of one that one that often gets overlooked, found atop a historic Glasgow institution in the heart of the city centre, Sauchiehall Street's Mackintosh at the Willow.
We reached out to the team there to find out more and after discovering the terrace will soon re-open for dining and drinking, it's one we can't wait to try out!
Here's what they had to say:
How long has the roof terrace been open and what's it like?
"The roof terrace first opened in July 2019 and was the final part of the building to be completed in the extensive restoration project.
"Our rooftop terrace is one of only two south facing roof terraces in the whole of Glasgow and is the perfect haven from the hustle and bustle of the city centre.
"It’s been carefully designed to show off both its exposed original brickwork and views of the Charles Rennie Mackintosh designed chimney- an architectural treasure. With ample seating, floral decorations, and lighting plus use of a pop-up bar this delightful and unique space is perfect for public use, private parties, and special events.
"We even have heaters for those days where the Glasgow sun is not quite shining.
"We’re excited to relaunch the terrace as Glasgow reopens, it’s a fantastic space to book for socialising with family and friends and enjoying delicious food and drink."
How many people can it accommodate?
"With the current restrictions and appropriate social distance in place, the rooftop terrace accommodates 26 customers. When restrictions are removed, we will be able to accommodate up to 40 guests."
What kind of food and drink is being served?
"We have curated a menu especially for the rooftop terrace which offers a selection of light bites, summer snacks and drinks (alcoholic & non-alcoholic) selected for al fresco dining."
When is it open?
"The rooftop terrace re-opens to the public from 12noon on Friday April 30th, 2021. It will be open thereafter from 12-5 (last bookings) on Fridays to Sundays and on bank holidays.
"From the summer months It will be opening 7 days a week."
"With 2-hour time-slots as per current government guidelines, booking is strongly advised."
Managing director of Mackintosh at the Willow, Pauline Young, added: "We are excited to launch our reinvigorated roof top terrace. It has been a challenging year for everyone, and this is a perfect spot to celebrate coming out of lock down.
"It is a bespoke and unique outdoor space in Glasgow City Centre, which is ideal for spending quality time with family and friends, enjoying excellent food and drink. We can’t wait to reopen our doors to the public on the 30th of April and bring back to life this unique and very special Glasgow institution!"
For a look at the food and drinks menus, which includes the likes of sandwiches, salads, meat, cheese and vegetarian sharing boards, alongside wines, champagne, gins and cocktails, you can click here for food, here for drinks.
Mackintosh at the Willow's tearooms is also set to re-open while Glaswegians will soon get to enjoy its tours and brilliant Charles Rennie Mackintosh exhibitions once more.
For more information and to make a booking to visit the iconic city centre spot - and the fantastic roof terrace - you can visit the Mackintosh at the Willow website here.
