This evening I found myself in Shoreditch, excited for the press launch of the Emerald City Winter Rooftop at Queen of Hoxton. Every season or so, Queen of Hoxton transforms it’s rooftop into something spectacular and this winter they’ve chosen none other than Emerald City from the Wizard of Oz. Having been a huge fan of the film as a child, I couldn’t wait to see what they had done to the place.
As we checked in, we were handed a pair of glasses (think 3D glasses of the 90s) which would turn everything green. I loved how they had thought of everything!
As you ascend the yellow stairs up to the rooftop, you see the tornado painted on to the walls and signs pointing to Emerald city. I liked it.
The WigWam has turned the house that fell on to the wicked witch (don’t fall over her feet! You can also sit inside and don’t forget to look out for those ruby slippers. There is also an actual yellow brick round surrounding the house. All in all, it’s A+ for effort, but it doesn’t stop there. There is a photobooth (£3 a pop), a bicycle (with Toto included ofc) so you can recreate that iconic scene. A distorted mirror for those all important selfies. Firepits to toast marshmallows! I feel like Queen of Hoxton really has thought of it all when it comes to details.
It’s important to note that they don’t do mocktails – at all. I did ask the bartender and she just said she couldn’t come up with something without any alcohol in it. Bizarre really.
They do also serve food. I tried out the Green Witch Veggie Burger With Black Bun (Black Charcoal Bun, Green Veggie Patty, Vegan Cheese, Vegan Mayo, Emerald Coriander Salsa) and it was a delicious.
I was a bit miffed about the alcohol sitch so I really didn’t want to like the food but I did. The burger however tasted really good and I loved the green coriander sauce that accompanied the chips.
Emerald City winter rooftop is a really great way to spend an evening friends and just chill. It’s honestly a vibe.
Is it worth going? Personally I’d go if everyone I was going with was comfortable drinking boring soft drinks or Red Bull. The venue is great but it would be better with a witchy mocktail.
They do however have some cool events coming up which I would like to go to:
Events coming up at Emerald City:
The Emerald Isle: Storytelling with Giles Abbott
Wednesday 30 October, 7-9pm
Ticket Link: https://queen-of-hoxton.eventcube.io/events/20831/the-emerald-isle-storytelling-with-giles-abbott
Glittering green hills, misty mountains and magical goings on: Ireland has long captured the imagination of poets, storytellers and all who visit its sparkling shores. Huddle around the fire with award-winning storyteller Giles Abbott for a journey to the mystical Emerald Isle, all the while surrounded by the Queen of Hoxton’s very own land of Oz – The Emerald City.
Winter wigwam storytelling with Giles Abbott
Sunday 03 November, 5-7pm
Ticket Link: https://queen-of-hoxton.eventcube.io/events/20832/storytelling-with-giles-abbott
As the days darken and nights draw in, what better way to spend a chilly Sunday afternoon than eavesdropping on some classic storytelling under the cover of a witch’s wigwam? Grab a drink, put your feet up and join award-winning storyteller Giles Abbott on the rooftop for a story session not to be missed.
Make your own eco-friendly incense with Suhaiyla Shakuwra
Tuesday 19 November, 7-9pm
Ticket Link:https://queen-of-hoxton.eventcube.io/events/21250/make-your-own-eco-friendly-incense-with-suhaiyla-shakuwra
Learn how to create your own incense to attract love and abundance with healer, tarot priestess and jewellery designer Suhaiyla Shakuwra. In this workshop, Suhaiyla will teach you about where to find and forage for seasonal herbs in and around London. You will learn how to cut, bind and dry your own herbs and go home with your very own sustainable, eco-friendly incense sticks!
Wicked Witches? Storytelling with Giles Abbott
Wednesday 20thNovember, 7-9pm
Ticket Link: https://queen-of-hoxton.eventcube.io/events/20830/wicked-witches-storytelling-with-giles-abbott
Forget hubble bubble toil and trouble, warts and broomsticks: these wicked witches are sassy, clever, and not to be messed with. From classic tales such as The Princess & The Swans to menstruating giantesses in Old Norse mythology, huddle around the Wicked Witch of the West’s house in our secret rooftop wigwam and enter the world of magic, cauldrons and witch craft with award-winning storyteller Giles Abbott
Secret Sunsets: The Emerald City Silent Disco
Tuesday 26 November, 7pm; 28 January; 19 February; 24 March
Tickets: https://queen-of-hoxton.eventcube.io/events/20851/secret-sunrise-the-emerald-city
Grab your greenest garments, follow the Yellow Brick Road and stumble into the magical realm of The Emerald City for a Secret Sunrise silent disco special and magical journey through the wonderful world of Oz. Dance under the night sky on top of East London’s coolest rooftop terrace. Be guided through this immersive dance experience and shake off the day. Secret Sunrise is inclusive to all, whether you are a scarecrow, lion or tin man, just come down but be ready to move your body and connect. “If we walk far enough,” says Dorothy, “we shall sometime come to someplace.” Participants encouraged to dress up in their greenest clothes, PLUS there will be a (biodegradable) green glitter station on hand to help bring the glimmering shimmering Emerald City to life!
Witch, Please! Rooftop witchCRAFT Market
Saturday 30 November, 12-6pm
Ticket Link: https://queen-of-hoxton.eventcube.io/events/21249/witch-please-day-time-witchcraft-market
A craft market with a witchy twist! Forage for some magical, seasonal gifts – from healing crystals and home-made incense to yoni wands, pxssy magic and empowerment spells, discover the weird and wonderful world of the modern witch. Live tarot reading and mulled wine will be on hand…
More events are still to be added and I’ll keep you updated as I get more info. If you’re looking for an alternative way to spend an evening, take a trip down the yellow brick road!
Hello You
I’m Rosie!
