The current heatwave means that sunglasses and a bottle of water are as much an essential when going out as your keys, phone and wallet.

East London Advertiser: People queue for ice-cream by Tower Bridge as the hot weather continues Picture: Kirsty O'Connor/PA WirePeople queue for ice-cream by Tower Bridge as the hot weather continues Picture: Kirsty O'Connor/PA Wire

And while some people are desperately hoping for a return to normal temperatures, even if only to make the rush hour Tube journey more bearable, others are basking in the summer sun.

As these pictures show, the area around Tower Bridge has proved a popular sunbathing spot, with hundreds taking to the grass every day to top up their tans - and keep the ice cream traders busy as well.

East London Advertiser: People relax in front of Tower Bridge during the heatwave Picture: Kirsty O'Connor/PA WirePeople relax in front of Tower Bridge during the heatwave Picture: Kirsty O'Connor/PA Wire

The heatwave is set to continue this week with a sizzling 36c predicted for Friday - although there is likely to be a slight respite with temperatures of 28c or 29c due for the weekend and the start of next week.

How are you making the most of the heatwave? Send your pictures to sophie.morton@archant.co.uk or share them with us on social media.