The greatest joy of childhood dining? Undoubtedly the dessert. There is something about those nostalgic sweet treats that keeps us craving them even years later, from comforting apple crumbles to fresh fruit and jelly.

But for many of us, there really was nothing that could beat the charm of a sundae. Perfectly scooped ice cream and lashings of chocolate sauce, all topped off with whipped cream and the signature cherry.

And now that summer feels like it’s well and truly arrived, the familiar urge to cool off with a big bowl of icy goodness has come back around again. However, in 2023, the ice cream sundae is anything but basic. Delicious ingredients, such as rum-soaked raisins, clotted ice cream and caramelised popcorn, are taking centre stage in these modern, sophisticated iterations.

So whether you like things kept classical or more elevated, here are our picks of the five best sundaes to scoop up across London.

5 elevated ice cream sundaes that make the perfect nostalgic summer dessert