In the heat of summer sunshine, there’s nothing quite like an icy gin and tonic to cool you down. But, when temperatures start to climb in the city, it can be hard to resign yourself to drinking in a dark, stuffy and over-crowded bar.

Now there’s another option – the Botanical Bar, which is located smack bang in the middle of London’s first Floating Pocket Park.

Read more: Anchors away: are you ready for London's first pop-up gin dock?

The pop-up bar – big enough for 100 gin aficionados to squeeze into – has called in a dazzling variety of delicious gins, unusual tinctures and only the best in “skilfully distilled mixers” from The London Essence Company. Which means that, yes, you can mix‘n’match as you please.

Gin fans can try a unique twist on a classic, sample a clever cocktail (how about a Lavender and Lovage Sour?), sip a sunshine-appropriate blend of Summery Rhubarb Collins or just keep things simple with a bog-standard G&T.

And, for those who want to find out more about their favourite gin brand or would like to learn some of the mastery of our great mixologists, you’re in luck: they’re organising plenty of gin-soaked fun for the balmy summer months ahead.

All you have to do is register your interest by emailing info@lockhouselondon.co.uk.

Read more: All the ways to celebrate gin: safaris, festivals, teas and tours to get your juniper on

Where is this magical island bar?

Well, Merchant’s Square Floating Pocket Park, entirely crafted from recycled materials, is currently bobbing about on the Grand Union canal, making for seriously picturesque views. And, when you throw in all of the lush greenery, it makes for the ideal Instagram destination.

Opening 10 June (just in time for World Gin Day), the Botanical Bar will be open every Thursday and Friday from 12pm to 9pm until 19 August.

Time to hoist anchors and set sail, we reckon…

Images: iStock