Soak up some city sun against a backdrop of London’s iconic skyline. The capital has some amazing rooftop bars and venues ready for when the sun becomes a permi-feature. With cocktail in hand and the scent of street-food in the air, you’ll forget about London’s bustling streets below with fantastic views of the city. These are the best rooftop bars in London…
Best Rooftop Bars in London
Spirit of Summer Terraces – Radio Rooftop, ME London Hotel
This year, the Spirit of Summer Terraces will open its doors to reveal two new spaces. One, an English Botanical Garden and the other a Mexican Hacienda. Both will be producing their own distinct dishes and beverages in accordance with the themed areas so you can expect a whole lot of Bombay Sapphire Gin and Patrón tequila in the roof garden.
Hotel Xenia – Kensington and Chelsea
If a busy rooftop bar isn’t your thing, Hotel Xenia has the answer. Located in the heart of Kensington and Chelsea, Hotel Xenia offers a quiet rooftop space, perfect for small groups. This green rooftop terrace promises an intimate setting with a touch of luxury.
Pergola – Paddington
Pergola Paddington Central is one of the capital’s largest alfresco drinking and dining destinations with airy and spacious seating well suited to socially-distanced socialising. Set over two floors, the venue fuses contemporary urban-design with lush green landscaping. DJs, live music and tasty street food adds to the relaxed festival feel, against a backdrop of the capital’s skyline.
Aviary – Finsbury Square
Aviary is a slick rooftop hotspot, standing ten floors above Finsbury Square. It offers breathtaking views of the capital’s iconic skyline, sensational cocktails and renowned DJs. Head here for Café Del Mar vibes.
Golden Bee – Old Street
This popular East London hangout has not one, not two, but three levels to enjoy, along with a hip split-level rooftop terrace. Long been the destination for sun-worshippers, it also features a luxurious VIP section and U-shaped bar. The mezzanine area has its own bar and can be exclusively hired on any night of the week.
Chiringuito – Bethnal Green
The menu at Chiringuito, Bethnal Green, is inspired by Latin America and Hispanic style foods with sharing dishes the main theme of the menus. When the weekend arrives, guests can enjoy free-flowing bloody marys, bellinis and frozen margaritas. In the evenings, DJ sets will be playing on the terrace with the likes of DJ Danny Marx and Kilian Vega.
Skylight – Wapping
Situated in Wapping, the Skylight rooftop bar in Wapping is back once again for a day and night of fun and games. The rooftop has spectacular views of the financial district with the BT tower, Sky Garden and the Shard also standing tall in the London skyline. There’s a DJ every Friday and Saturday night, with a wide range of games to choose from like croquet and bowls.
Frank’s Cafe – Peckham
Rooftop bars really don’t come much better than Franks. It’s renowned as one of South London’s best places to party. It is the summertime alter ego of Rye Lane’s multi story car park and welcomes tribes of hipsters. Head here to knock back Campari with a spectacular view of St Paul’s just four miles north.
Madison – St Paul’s
Madison boasts a Manhattan style restaurant with a superb selection from the grill. The Bar is a destination in its own right and a real social hub for post-work drinks. It delivers spectacular city views and a wide range of cocktails.
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