Rooftop bars in London
- Apr 27
- 4 min read
Updated: 1 day ago
London’s skyline offers some of the most stunning views in the world, and what better way to enjoy them than from a rooftop bar? Whether you want to sip a cocktail while watching the sunset or enjoy a lively atmosphere under the stars, London’s rooftop bars provide a perfect escape from the busy streets below. This guide highlights 20 of the best rooftop bars across the city, each with its own unique vibe, location, and charm.
1. Sky Garden
Located atop the Walkie Talkie building, Sky Garden offers a lush indoor garden with panoramic views of London. The space combines greenery with stylish bars and restaurants, creating a relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere. It’s free to visit but booking in advance is recommended. Enjoy cocktails while taking in sights like the Shard and Tower Bridge.
Location: 20 Fenchurch St, London EC3M 8AF
2. Radio Rooftop Bar
Radio Rooftop Bar sits on the 10th floor of ME London Hotel, offering sweeping views of the Thames and iconic landmarks. The bar features a chic, modern design with a lively crowd. It’s a great spot for sunset drinks or late-night cocktails with a DJ setting the mood.
Location: 336-337 Strand, London WC2R 1HA
3. Madison
Madison is perched above St Paul’s Cathedral, providing one of the best views of this historic landmark. The bar has a spacious terrace and a menu full of creative cocktails and small plates. It’s popular for both casual drinks and special occasions.
Location: One New Change, St Paul’s, London EC4M 9AF
4. Pergola Paddington
Pergola Paddington offers a vibrant rooftop experience with a mix of bars, street food vendors, and plenty of seating. The atmosphere is casual and fun, perfect for groups looking to enjoy a variety of drinks and bites in a lively setting.
Location: 2 Kingdom St, Paddington, London W2 6PY
5. The Culpeper Roof Garden
This rooftop bar in East London features a rooftop garden with herbs and vegetables used in their cocktails and kitchen. The Culpeper offers a cozy, rustic vibe with great views of the city skyline and a menu focused on fresh, seasonal ingredients.
Location: 40 Commercial St, London E1 6LP
6. Netil 360
Netil 360 is a hidden gem in Hackney with a relaxed rooftop terrace and panoramic views over East London. It’s a great spot for craft beers, cocktails, and weekend brunches. The bar also hosts events like yoga and live music.
Location: 1 Westgate St, London E8 3RL
7. Frank’s Cafe
Frank’s Cafe is a seasonal rooftop bar located on a car park in Peckham. It’s known for its laid-back vibe, affordable drinks, and stunning views of the London skyline. The bar is open during warmer months and often features food trucks and DJs.
Location: 10 Deptford Rd, London SE8 4PA
8. Boundary Rooftop
Boundary Rooftop in Shoreditch offers a stylish setting with views of the city’s creative heart. The bar serves innovative cocktails and has a Mediterranean-inspired menu. It’s a popular spot for after-work drinks and weekend gatherings.
Location: 2-4 Boundary St, London E2 7DD
9. The Trafalgar St. James Rooftop Bar
This rooftop bar overlooks Trafalgar Square and offers a glamorous setting with classic cocktails and a refined menu. The terrace is perfect for people-watching and enjoying the buzz of central London.
Location: 2 Spring Gardens, London SW1A 2TS
10. The Rooftop St James
Located on the Strand, The Rooftop St James combines a stylish indoor bar with a spacious outdoor terrace. It offers views of landmarks like the London Eye and Big Ben, alongside a menu of cocktails, wines, and sharing plates.
Location: 7-8 Spring Gardens, London SW1A 2TS
11. Sushisamba
Sushisamba combines Japanese, Brazilian, and Peruvian cuisine with a rooftop bar offering spectacular views of the City and the Shard. The vibrant atmosphere and creative cocktails make it a hotspot for both dining and drinks.
Location: 110 Bishopsgate, London EC2N 4AY
12. The Alchemist City
Known for its theatrical cocktails, The Alchemist City has a rooftop terrace with views of the Thames and Tower Bridge. The bar’s inventive drinks and dramatic presentations create a memorable experience.
Location: 40 Bank St, London EC3V 9DQ
13. Queen of Hoxton
Queen of Hoxton offers a rooftop bar with a creative, ever-changing theme. It’s a lively spot with DJs, street food, and a relaxed vibe in Shoreditch. The views stretch across East London’s skyline.
Location: 1 Curtain Rd, London EC2A 3JX
14. Skylight London
Skylight London is a rooftop bar and event space in Tobacco Dock. It features lawn games, food stalls, and a large terrace with views of the city. The atmosphere is casual and fun, ideal for groups and celebrations.
Location: Tobacco Dock, Wapping Ln, London E1W 2SF
15. The Drift
The Drift is a rooftop bar in Shoreditch with a tropical theme and panoramic views. It offers a relaxed setting with cocktails inspired by the Caribbean and a menu of small plates.
Location: 1 Curtain Rd, London EC2A 3JX
16. Aviary
Aviary is a rooftop bar on the 10th floor of the Montcalm Royal London House Hotel. It offers elegant interiors and sweeping views of the city, including the Gherkin and Tower Bridge. The cocktail menu is extensive and refined.
Location: 22-25 Finsbury Sq, London EC2A 1DX
17. The Rooftop at The Trafalgar
This bar provides a stylish rooftop terrace with views of Trafalgar Square and beyond. It’s a great place to enjoy classic cocktails and light bites in a central location.
Location: 2 Spring Gardens, London SW1A 2TS
18. Netil 360
Netil 360 offers a relaxed rooftop bar experience in East London with panoramic views and a focus on craft beers and cocktails. It’s a great spot for brunch or evening drinks with friends.
Location: 1 Westgate St, London E8 3RL
19. The Boundary Rooftop
This Shoreditch rooftop bar features Mediterranean-inspired food and cocktails with views over the city’s creative district. The atmosphere is stylish yet welcoming.
Location: 2-4 Boundary St, London E2 7DD
20. The Culpeper
The Culpeper rooftop bar offers a garden setting with fresh herbs used in their drinks and dishes. It’s a cozy spot with views of the London skyline and a focus on seasonal ingredients.
Location: 40 Commercial St, London E1 6LP
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