In 1981, Richard Branson took a garden in the sky, and made it all his own.
Did he transform it into a secret hub to research travel through time and space? No.
Did he acquire the space for Virgin's leafiest broadband line yet? No.
Did he turn it in to a rooftop restaurant, bar and events space worthy of some of London's most sought after parties?
You bet he did.
And while the roof gardens saw major success in their 37-year ownership under the Virgin brand, 2018 saw Branson take a step away from flamingos and foliage, leaving the sky-high space to simmer.
But good things clearly happen to those who wait, as reported by The Standard in February 2024, stating that new owner Stephen Fitzpatrick (of Ovo Energy) is hoping to reopen the rooftop space in May 2024, rebranded as a private members bar. Members would look to pay £1000 a year for access, reducing to £500 for those under 32. Based on reports around planning applications, the club is meant to be a departure from 'an ostentatious Mayfair members club', and will aim to restore the green spaces, opting for a cultural approach.
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