From glitzy hotel bars to trendy hangouts on top of car parks, these are the best rooftop bars in London
Loving London in the summer isn't always a breeze. The occasional heat waves can feel relentless, sticky and make us all rather sleep-deprived (since we are not a nation with aircon units readily fitted in our homes). But there are a few things to love about summer in London – namely; rooftop bar season. Offering the perfect opportunity to take in the city skyline in all its glory, is there anything better than finishing the working week with an Aperol Spritz in hand?
Ok, so you may have to endure a line or two, and your drink might come with a hefty price tag. But rooftop bars in London offer us that ever-so-subtle reminder of why our capital city really is one of the most dazzling in the world.
But how do you choose which one to go to? With so many options, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. Especially since rooftop bars are littered across the whole of London. So, we've done the hard work for you to help you navigate – and scoured the city to find the most exciting rooftop bars in London for drinks (and food) right now.
So whether you’re looking for a cosy, comfortable and more intimate setting, or if you want to be blown away by breathtaking views and world-class DJs, we’ve got you covered. Even if you’re a longtime local or a first-time visitor, these rooftops are not to be missed...
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Best rooftop bars in London at a glance
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Best rooftop bars in London right now
Alto by San Carlo
Perched atop one of the world’s most prestigious department stores, Alto by San Carlo is one of London’s most iconic alfresco dining spots. Escape the bustling shoppers on Oxford Street and discover an enchanting foliage-laden little Italy with a fully retractable roof. The new summer menu is bursting with beautifully presented Italian plates alongside refreshing spritzes, wine and cocktails. Open seven days a week from lunch through to dinner, a stunning rooftop sanctuary, terrace bar and restaurant awaits.
Address: 400 Oxford Street, London, W1A 1AB
Website: sancarlo.co.uk
Los Mochis London City
Set to be summer 2024’s hottest rooftop bar, Los Mochis London City is located in the newly developed Broadgate complex at 100 Liverpool Street and spans an impressive 14,000 square feet. Occupying the entire ninth floor, Los Mochis – also known as 'Where Tokyo Meets Tulum' – offers views across London, including window side tables that’ll face southwards to the Shard and southwest to central London, including vistas of St Pauls and the London Eye.
Address: 9th Floor, 100 Liverpool St, London EC2M 2AT
Website: losmochis.co.uk
JOIA Rooftop
JOIA Rooftop, which is situated on the 16th floor of the new Art’otel London Battersea Power Station, offers impressive views of the power station (as well as across the rather fancy heated infinity swimming pool – which is just next to the bar). Described as Lisbon meets London, expect Portuguese Iberian delights and jugs of Sangria.
Address: 16th Floor, 1 Electric Blvd, Nine Elms, London, SW11 8BJ
Website: joiabattersea.co.uk
The Rooftop at The Standard
Found on the 11th floor of the The Standard hotel, The Rooftop offers the ultimate backdrop for enjoying outdoor cocktails and bubbly on tap. Nestled in the heart of King’s Cross, it's right next to Coal Drop’s Yard and just a short stroll from St Pancras Station. Perfect for soaking up the summer sun after work.
Address: 10 Argyle St, London WC1H 8NP
Website: standardhotels.com
Roof East
Dubbed as London’s ultimate rooftop playground for adults, Roof East (which is, quite literally, set in a multi-storey car park) has been running every summer for the past 10 years and offers everything from crazy golf to open-air cinema nights. Plus, street food stands, giant jenga comps and pub quiz nights.
Address: 7 & 8 Stratford Multi Storey Car Park, Great Eastern Rd, London E15 1XE
Website: roofeast.com
Sushisamba
If you like Sushi, chances are, you've already been to (or at least heard of) Sushisamba. Nestled within one of the city's tallest skyscrapers, Sushisamba offers an upscale atmosphere, breathtaking views, innovative drinks, and unforgettable food.
Address: Heron Tower, 110 Bishopsgate, London EC2N 4AY
Website: sushisamba.com
Marquess of Anglesey
Just a quick stroll from Covent Garden tube station, this beloved local pub is the perfect spot to enjoy beautifully brewed ales, seasonal wines, and signature cocktails – and its rooftop bar (with a fully retractable roof and windows) is the perfect place to soak up the sunshine while taking in the views over theatreland.
Address: 39 Bow St, London WC2E 7AU
Website: themarquess.co.uk
Aqua Spirit
Right in the heart of Soho, you'll find the super stylish Aqua Spirit rooftop bar. Offering an amazing mix of signature and classic cocktails – think; east-west Daiquiris, Saketinis and Shanghai-style classics such as Nippon Negroni, plus delicious Japanese and Spanish bites inspired by the restaurants.
Address: Aqua London, 240 Regent Street, Soho, London W1B 3BR
Website: aquanueva.co.uk
Radio Rooftop
This swanky rooftop cocktail bar, located on the 10th floor of ME London, is one of the city's most iconic (and glam date-night) spots, offering stunning views across the River Thames. From sunrise to sunset, guests can take in the views of the capital, from the Shard and St Paul’s to the London Eye and Big Ben.
Address: 336-337 Strand, London WC2R 1HA
Website: radiorooftop.com
The Rooftop at One Hundred Shoreditch
With a vibe inspired by Palm Springs, you'll feel like you've escaped to California at The Rooftop – thanks to its pink marble, terrazzo interiors, and a fab outdoor terrace with panoramic views over East London. Whether you're looking for somewhere for brunch (we recommend the Devilled Eggs), or you're on the hunt for the perfect margarita, Rooftop is the ideal place, with lush interiors, delicious cocktails and Californian-inspired bites.
Address: One Hundred Shoreditch Hotel, 100 Shoreditch High Street, Shoreditch, London E1 6JQ
Website: onehundredshoreditch.com
The Rooftop St. James
Located on the 7th floor of The Trafalgar St. James, The Rooftop arguably offers one of the city's best (and most central) drinking and dining experiences with stunning views of the London skyline. Perfect for savouring alfresco cocktails, this rooftop bar is open all year round – and thanks to its blankets, heaters, and a retractable roof – you can enjoy the rooftop come rain or shine.
Address: 7th Floor, 2 Spring Gardens, St. James's, London SW1A 2TS
Website: trafalgarstjames.com
No.3 Rooftop at Smiths of Smithfield
With views of St. Pauls Cathedral and the city, this small rooftop restaurant is ideal for those looking for a post-work fine-dining experience. Headed up by chef Stan Marshman, seafood is the star here, think: Cuttlefish croquettes and roast turbot with wild garlic. There's also a four-course tasting menu available for £67.50 per person.
Address: 67-77 Charterhouse Street, London, EC1M 6HJ
Website: smithsofsmithfield.co.uk
12th Knot at Sea Containers
Nestled along the South Bank of the River Thames, near Blackfriars Bridge, you'll find 12th Knot. Positioned 12 floors up at Sea Containers London, this rooftop bar offers stunning views of the river and the city skyline. Whether you're looking for a relaxed evening cocktail after work or a lively night out with friends, 12th Knot has live music every Wednesday and DJs on weekends.
Address: 12th Knot, 20 Upper Ground, South Bank, SE1 9PD
Website: seacontainerslondon.com
Jin Bo Law Skybar
Jin Bo Law sometimes host yoga classes on their rooftop decking in the summer (we've been), but if yoga isn't your thing, then the balcony-style terrace and a bar serve up some seriously unique and expertly crafted cocktails. It's the perfect place to sip, socialise, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere.
Address: Hotel Saint, 14th floor, 9 Aldgate High St, London EC3N 1AH
Website: jinbolaw.co.uk
Madison
Next to St. Paul’s Cathedral is a shopping centre called One New Change – take the lift to the top floor and you'll find Madison, a restaurant and rooftop bar with a stunning close-up view of St. Paul’s Cathedral (in fact, it’s so good, it could be better than actually going inside the cathedral). The cocktail menu is pretty great, too – inspired by Manhattan and offers a mix of timeless classics and contemporary twists.
Address: Rooftop Terrace One New Change, London, EC4M 9AF
Website: madisonlondon.net
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