50 Best Rooftop Bars in London

 

Sep 6th, 2024

London’s rooftop scene is buzzing, and whether you're after a relaxed pub atmosphere or a chic bar with skyline views, this city’s got you covered. Here's a roundup of 50 of the best rooftop bars that are perfect for sipping, lounging, and enjoying the heights of London.

1. Aviary Rooftop

A stylish rooftop high above Finsbury Square, perfect for sunset drinks and panoramic views of the financial district. The upscale decor and curated cocktail list make it a popular spot for after-work relaxation.

Location: Montcalm Royal London House, Finsbury Square, Moorgate

2. Radio Rooftop

With its location at the top of the ME London Hotel, Radio Rooftop is one of the city’s most iconic rooftop bars. Enjoy sweeping views of the Thames and landmarks like The Shard and St. Paul’s.

Location: ME London Hotel, 336-337 The Strand, Covent Garden

3. The Nest at Treehouse London

This rooftop offers 360-degree views of the city, comfy seating, and a cozy atmosphere. It’s perfect for lounging with signature cocktails, nestled above one of London’s quirkiest hotels.

Location: Treehouse London Hotel, Langham Place, Marylebone

4. Queen of Hoxton

Known for its ever-changing seasonal themes, this Shoreditch bar is a fun and quirky rooftop destination. Expect everything from winter wigwams to tropical summer getaways.

Location: 1 Curtain Road, Shoreditch

5. Boundary Rooftop

This chic Mediterranean-inspired rooftop in Shoreditch offers an elegant setting for relaxed cocktails and small plates. With its plush design and excellent service, it’s a favourite among locals.

Location: Boundary Hotel, 2-4 Boundary Street, Shoreditch

6. 12th Knot

Located on the Southbank, 12th Knot is a chic rooftop bar with plush seating, smart cocktails, and panoramic views of St. Paul’s Cathedral. It’s a year-round destination with both indoor and outdoor spaces.

Location: Sea Containers London, 20 Upper Ground, South Bank

7. Sushi Samba City

This high-end bar sits atop the Heron Tower, offering a fusion of Japanese, Brazilian, and Peruvian cuisines alongside jaw-dropping views of the City of London.

Location:Heron Tower, 110 Bishopsgate, City of London

8. Aqua Nueva

This rooftop offers a slice of Spain in central London, with tapas dishes, refreshing cocktails, and views over Regent Street. It’s the ideal spot for pre-theatre drinks or a night out in the West End.

Location: 240 Regent Street, Soho

9. Skylight Tobacco Dock

Skylight combines rooftop views with games like croquet and petanque. Located in Tobacco Dock, it’s a lively spot perfect for groups looking for casual fun and street food.

Location: Tobacco Dock, Pennington Street, Wapping

10. Frank's Cafe

One of Peckham’s most beloved hangouts, Frank’s is known for its laid-back atmosphere and unbeatable sunset views. It’s a local favourite for simple but well-crafted cocktails and snacks.

Location: 95A Rye Lane, Peckham

11. Seabird at The Hoxton

Seabird offers a Mediterranean-inspired rooftop setting, complete with London’s longest oyster list. The views from this South London hotspot are as impressive as the seafood.

Location: The Hoxton Southwark, 40 Blackfriars Road, Southwark

12. Netil360

A cultural hub in Hackney, Netil360 is more than just a rooftop bar—it’s a space for art, workshops, and community events, with cocktails and craft beers to enjoy alongside.

Location:1 Westgate Street, London Fields, Hackney

13. Sabine Rooftop Bar

With unbeatable views of St. Paul’s, Sabine is a sleek and stylish rooftop with a sophisticated cocktail list. It’s a great spot for date nights or after-work drinks.

Location: 10 Godliman Street, City of London

14. Golden Bee

Located in Shoreditch, Golden Bee offers a lively party atmosphere, complete with weekend DJs and a buzzing rooftop scene. It’s a go-to spot for weekend fun.

Location: Singer Street, Shoreditch

15. The Culpeper

A true rooftop garden, The Culpeper is a green escape in the heart of the city. With its urban farm, seasonal food menu, and craft beers, it’s the perfect retreat for nature lovers.

Location: 40 Commercial Street, Spitalfields

16. The Rooftop St. James

This sophisticated bar offers stunning views over Trafalgar Square. With small plates and craft cocktails, it’s ideal for sunset drinks with a historic London backdrop.

Location: Trafalgar St. James, 2 Spring Gardens, St. James’s

17. The Prince

This spacious rooftop garden in West Brompton is home to multiple bars and street food vendors. It’s a lively, casual spot perfect for groups looking for a laid-back vibe.

Location: 14 Lillie Road, West Brompton

18. Coq d’Argent

This elegant French rooftop offers exceptional dining alongside stunning views of the City. Whether it’s for a business lunch or an evening date, Coq d’Argent never disappoints.

Location: No.1 Poultry, Bank

19. Pergola Paddington

A sprawling rooftop space with greenery, bars, and pop-up food stalls, Pergola Paddington is ideal for a relaxed day out with friends. It’s a great summer destination with plenty of seating.

Location: 5 Kingdom Street, Paddington

20. Madison Rooftop

Madison offers glamorous cocktails with unparalleled views of St. Paul’s Cathedral. It’s a trendy rooftop, perfect for evening drinks and late-night dancing.

Location: One New Change, St. Paul’s

21. Sky Garden

London’s highest public garden, Sky Garden offers a unique rooftop experience with bars and restaurants set amid lush greenery and panoramic city views.

Location: 20 Fenchurch Street, City of London

22. Sushisamba Covent Garden

This outpost of the famous restaurant offers a rooftop with a more relaxed vibe than its City counterpart, along with fusion sushi and cocktails.

Location: The Piazza, Covent Garden

23. Jin Bo Law

Jin Bo Law is a chic rooftop located in Aldgate, offering sleek decor and stunning views of landmarks like the Gherkin and the Shard.

Location: 9 Aldgate High Street, Aldgate

24. Mercer Roof Terrace

This elegant rooftop boasts views of the Tower of London and the Shard. With a seasonal British menu and well-crafted cocktails, it’s a perfect choice for a sophisticated night out.

Location: 20 Garlick Hill, City of London

25. Skylight Peckham

The sister venue to Tobacco Dock’s Skylight, this Peckham spot brings the same laid-back fun to South London, complete with games and street food.

Location: 120 Peckham Hill Street, Peckham

26. No. 32 The Old Town

Located in Clapham, No. 32 The Old Town boasts a sun-drenched rooftop terrace, ideal for weekend brunches and afternoon drinks. It’s a relaxed spot, perfect for soaking up the sun with friends.

Location: 32 The Pavement, Clapham

27. Roof East

Stratford’s Roof East offers a fun and casual rooftop experience with mini-golf, batting cages, and street food. It’s a vibrant spot for group outings, with activities to keep the energy high all night.

Location: Great Eastern Road, Stratford

28. TT Liquor

This Shoreditch rooftop bar is tucked above a multi-purpose cocktail bar and bottle shop. It’s an intimate spot with a great selection of cocktails and occasional rooftop cinema events.

Location: 17B Kingsland Road, Shoreditch

29. Big Chill Kings Cross

A laid-back rooftop bar in the heart of Kings Cross, Big Chill offers street food, craft beers, and DJs spinning the best tunes. It’s a great spot for an after-work drink or weekend chill.

Location: 257-259 Pentonville Road, Kings Cross

30. Forza Wine

Forza Wine in Peckham is known for its Italian-inspired small plates and natural wines. The relaxed rooftop setting is perfect for a chilled evening with friends, offering stunning views across South London.

Location: 133A Rye Lane, Peckham

31. Bussey Rooftop Bar

One of Peckham’s most popular rooftop bars, Bussey Rooftop offers tasty pizzas, cocktails, and some of the best sunset views in the city. It’s a casual, fun spot for a relaxed night out.

Location:133 Rye Lane, Peckham

32. The Lock Tavern

A Camden classic, The Lock Tavern’s rooftop terrace is a go-to spot for live music lovers. Offering a great selection of craft beers and tasty pub food, it’s a perfect spot for a laid-back afternoon or evening.

Location: 35 Chalk Farm Road, Camden

33. The Red Lion

This hidden gem in Shoreditch is tucked away above a pub, offering a cozy and intimate rooftop experience. The faux grass, wooden benches, and affordable food make it a charming spot for a quiet drink.

Location: 41 Hoxton Street, Shoreditch

34. The Trafalgar St. James

With chic decor and some of the best views in London, The Trafalgar St. James rooftop is perfect for sophisticated drinks and nibbles. Overlooking Trafalgar Square, it’s a great spot for a stylish night out.

Location: 2 Spring Gardens, St. James’s

35. Lost in Brixton

Hidden above Brixton Village, Lost in Brixton is a vibrant rooftop bar with a buzzing atmosphere. Known for its Latin-inspired cocktails and local beers, it’s a lively spot for an evening with friends.

Location: Brixton Village, Coldharbour Lane, Brixton

36. Vagabond Shoreditch

Wine lovers, this one’s for you! Vagabond’s rooftop in Shoreditch offers an excellent wine selection paired with small plates. The lush, green rooftop is a perfect retreat from the bustling streets below.

Location: 18 Charlotte Road, Shoreditch

37. The Gate

Aldgate’s rooftop gem, The Gate, offers organic dishes and handcrafted cocktails, with stunning views of the city. It’s a versatile spot, great for both a relaxed lunch or an evening out.

Location: 66-68A Aldgate High Street, Aldgate

38. The Fox

A quaint and colorful rooftop in Shoreditch, The Fox offers casual vibes and a menu of small plates and cocktails. It’s a hidden gem, perfect for catching up with friends or a low-key date.

Location: 28 Paul Street, Shoreditch

39. The Abbey Tavern

Located in Kentish Town, The Abbey Tavern’s spacious rooftop terrace is perfect for sunny afternoons. It’s a popular spot for casual drinks and delicious pub food, including juicy burgers and craft beers.

Location: 124 Kentish Town Road, Kentish Town

40. NoMad Rooftop

This luxury Covent Garden rooftop offers opulent cocktails and gourmet dining. With a beautiful setting overlooking the West End, it’s perfect for a special occasion or a chic night out.

Location: 28 Bow Street, Covent Garden

41. NT’s Loft

Hackney’s NT’s Loft is a lively rooftop spot known for its vibrant atmosphere, cocktails, and great music. It’s a weekend favourite, with DJs playing into the night.

Location: 1 Westgate Street, Hackney

42. Sabine Rooftop Bar

A stylish rooftop near St. Paul’s Cathedral, Sabine is a sleek, modern bar with a killer cocktail menu. It’s a must-visit for anyone looking to enjoy a drink with one of London’s most iconic views.

Location: 10 Godliman Street, City of London

43. The Bussey Building

This Peckham rooftop bar and cinema is a local icon. With great drinks, delicious pizzas, and open-air movies in the summer, it’s a go-to for fun evenings with friends.

Location: 133 Rye Lane, Peckham

44. Seabird

Offering one of London’s longest oyster lists and Mediterranean-inspired cocktails, Seabird at The Hoxton is a rooftop destination for seafood lovers, complete with beautiful views over the Southbank.

Location: 40 Blackfriars Road, Southwark

45. TT Liquor Shoreditch

Another hidden rooftop gem in Shoreditch, TT Liquor’s rooftop bar serves award-winning cocktails in a cozy and intimate setting. Perfect for a quiet evening with close friends.

Location: 17B Kingsland Road, Shoreditch

46. Frank's Cafe

A Peckham institution, Frank’s Cafe is a simple yet much-loved rooftop bar with one of the best sunset views in London. It’s the perfect spot for a low-key drink with friends.

Location: 95A Rye Lane, Peckham

47. Jin Bo Law

Jin Bo Law offers sleek design and panoramic views of London’s financial district. Located in Aldgate, it’s perfect for impressing out-of-town guests with both views and cocktails.

Location: 9 Aldgate High Street, Aldgate

48. Sushisamba City

Known for its breathtaking views and fusion of Japanese, Brazilian, and Peruvian cuisines, Sushisamba City is an iconic rooftop destination for an unforgettable dining experience.

Location: Heron Tower, 110 Bishopsgate, City of London

49. The Clapham North

A popular south London pub, The Clapham North boasts a rooftop terrace that’s perfect for a relaxed evening with friends. Enjoy a pint or a cocktail while soaking up the neighborhood atmosphere.

Location:409 Clapham Road, Clapham

50. Golden Bee

Located in the heart of Shoreditch, Golden Bee’s rooftop offers great cocktails and a party vibe, with DJs spinning late into the night. It’s the perfect spot for a lively weekend outing.

Location:Singer Street, Shoreditch

These 50 rooftop bars showcase the best of London’s skyline, perfect for a variety of moods and occasions—from casual meetups to sophisticated nights out.

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