30 of the best rooftop bars in London that will blow you away

If there’s one thing Londoners can’t get enough of, it’s a drink with a view. Luckily, the capital is filled with classy and cool bars perched at the top of some of its tallest buildings. So, if you ever need somewhere to quench your thirst while gazing out over the city, you’re never too far from one of London's best rooftop spots. Our guide to the best rooftop bars in London proves that point perfectly, with a wealth of spectacular spots included in this list.

Whatever the occasion, there's a rooftop bar in London to suit, from hip hangouts in Shoreditch to buzzy spots in London Bridge. If you’re looking for somewhere more central, you’ll also find rooftop bars everywhere from Mayfair to Covent Garden.

In fact, there are high-rise bars spread right across the capital, offering terrace views of the city skyline from north, south, east and west. Most of these places offer excellent food menus too, from bar bites to full-blown meals, so you can enjoy a snack in the sun alongside your tipple of choice. With the City of London being home to some of the city’s tallest skyscrapers, it’s no surprise that you’ll find many of London's coolest rooftop bars in the area. There are plenty of bars that cater for office workers looking to relax with colleagues or entertain clients after work.

Whether it’s for a wild night out on the tiles or civilised cocktails under the stars, you'll find a spot for every occasion. Scroll down to find SquareMeal’s ultimate list of London's best rooftop bars, which we've sorted into different locations across the capital. We’re confident that a visit to one or two of these top-floor hotspots will quickly become a regular occurrence.

Best rooftop bars in central London

Many of these central spots offer 360-degree views of the capital – perfect for tourists looking for landmarks or office workers seeking an escape from their desks and a breath of fresh air.

Savage Garden LDN, Tower Hill

What: Boasting not one but two terraces with 360-degree views of London, Savage Garden has a prime location at the top of the DoubleTree Hilton at Tower Bridge. The bar does a solid line in unusual cocktails, too, which must be good because Savage Garden is pretty busy on most evenings. Be aware that there is a dress code, so go smart casual to avoid disappointment at the door.
Where: 7 Pepys Street, EC3N 4AF
Booking for a special occasion? Discover event and party hire options at DoubleTree by Hilton Tower of London
Book now: Savage Garden LDN

Flute, Soho

What: Bursting with colour and offering a much-needed hideaway from the hustle and bustle of Soho, Flute is the jewel in Broadwick Soho’s crown. This foliage-filled rooftop bar sits right in the heart of central London and is arguably one of the city's best-kept secrets. Pastel-hued, Instagram-worthy interiors make for an aesthetically pleasing dining experience, or head out onto the terrace to dive into a selection of signature cocktails, Champagnes and sparkling wines, with small plates and grazing platters to boot.
Where: 20 Broadwick Street, W1F 8HT
Booking for a special occasion? Discover private and group dining options at Broadwick Soho
Book now: Flute

1864 Rooftop Bar and Kitchen, Oxford Circus

What: Perched on the sixth floor of the John Lewis Oxford Street store, 1864 Rooftop Bar and Kitchen stands as an oasis of calm in the heaving chaos that is London’s most popular shopping district. Panoramic city views, tasty snacks and sharers, and a whole list of delicious cocktails to keep you refreshed. Signatures include the Golden Punch with orange gold wine, Briottet peach and tonic, an Elder Pisco Sour, a Flaming Margarita, and a Quince Collins. Classics and mocktails are available too.
Where: 6th Floor, John Lewis, 300 Oxford Street, WC1 1DX
Booking for a special occasion? Discover event and party hire options at 1864 Rooftop Bar and Kitchen
Book now: 1864 Rooftop Bar and Kitchen

SUSHISAMBA, City of London

What: Home to the world's highest glowing orange tree (probably), the outdoor bar at SUSHISAMBA’s original City location has an undeniable buzz. Often packed with City types splashing the cash, plus unbeatable views of the capital’s skyline, this is the place to come for cocktails with a view. Sip on a selection of Brazilian-Japanese fusion cocktails and nibble on some bougie bar snacks, including A5 Kobe gyoza, and crispy yellowtail taquitos.
Where: 110 Bishopsgate, EC2N 4AY
Booking for a special occasion? Discover event and party hire options at SUSHISAMBA Heron Tower
Book now: SUSHISAMBA Heron Tower

The Rooftop at The Hippodrome Casino, Leicester Square

What: Spread across three floors, the various roof terraces on top of the iconic Hippodrome Casino are the perfect place to enjoy an early-evening drink in town. There are also electric heaters for those days when it looks sunny but isn't actually that warm. The shared capacity of the terraces is 120, making this the ideal setting for a relaxed drinks party, be it with friends or colleagues.
Where: 10-14 Cranbourn Street, WC2H 7JH
Booking for a special occasion? Discover event and party hire options at Hippodrome Casino
Book now: The Rooftop at The Hippodrome Casino

Los Mochis, City of London

What: Perched on the 9th floor of 100 Liverpool Street, Los Mochis’ City of London location boasts several dining rooms, an exclusive omakase restaurant, and an equally fabulous rooftop terrace where you can experience the brand's signature blend of Japanese and Mexican cuisine. Pull up a stool seat and enjoy its extensive selection of tequila and mezcal-based drinks, with St Paul’s looming in the background. It doesn’t get much better than that.
Where: 100 Liverpool Street, EC2M 2AT
Booking for a special occasion? Discover event and party hire options at Los Mochis City
Book now: Los Mochis City

Sky Pod Bar at Sky Garden, City of London

What: Sky Garden may be known for its lush greenery (the perfect backdrop for an impromptu photoshoot), but its sprawling views of the capital are also worth a mention. The Sky Pod Bar, which isn’t separated from the rest of the space, allows guests to stand around admiring the views or pull up a chair to rest their legs. All the usual drinks can be found here (including a selection of signature cocktails), while the food menu features sharing platters of charcuterie, seafood or desserts.
Where: 20 Fenchurch Street, EC3M 3BY
Book now: Sky Pod Bar at Sky Garden

The Rooftop at Trafalgar St. James, Trafalgar Square

What: If this hotel’s name isn’t enough of a hint, The Rooftop boasts picture-perfect views of bustling Trafalgar Square. Visitors are given a choice between either al fresco or canopy-covered seating, with the terrace featuring cosy banquette seating and a marble-streaked bar. Head here for classic cocktails and by-the-glass wines, as well as a menu of comforting classics and small plates like crispy prawns and wild mushroom croquettes.
Where: 2 Spring Gardens, SW1A 2TS
Book now: The Rooftop at Trafalgar St. James

Mercer Roof Terrace, Blackfriars

What: If you don’t have the energy to stay standing all night (we feel you), then opt for the glamorous Mercer Roof Terrace, where you can combine sky-high drinking and dining. Settle in at one of the tables and explore the seasonally changing menu of modern British dishes, which might include chicken breast with chorizo and butterbean stew, followed by sticky toffee pudding with poached figs. Wash it all down with a cocktail, a glass of Champagne or your pick of the European-led wine list.
Where: 19-20 Garlick Hill, EC4V 2AU
Book now: Mercer Roof Terrace

Wagtail, City of London

What: If you’re looking for a side of London grandeur and history with your view, take yourself up to Wagtail in the City and gaze out upon some of the capital’s most famous landmarks - The Shard, St Paul’s and much more. The cocktail menu is cracking as well, with an imaginative selection of signature mixes to sip on as you take in one of London’s best skyline vistas.
Where: 68 King William Street, EC4N 7HR
Book now: Wagtail

Best rooftop bars in south London

Heading south of the river? These trendy terraces in south London make equally alluring destinations by day or night, but be sure to make a reservation - they fill up fast.

JOIA, Battersea

What: JOIA, the gorgeous dusky pink restaurant at the top of the art’otel right next to Battersea Power Station, has got a not-so-little secret sitting on the 16th floor: a lovely, spacious terrace complete with a bar and stunning views. Open from Friday to Sunday, it’s a great one to have in your back pocket, particularly after a day shopping around in the power station itself. Here, you’ll find a range of lovely cocktails and boozy slushies, including a gin, yuzu and basil smash, and a watermelon spicy marg to cool you off..
Where: 15th Floor, 1 Electric Boulevard, SW11 8BJ
Booking for a special occasion? Discover event and party hire options at art’otel Battersea Power Station
Book now: JOIA

OXO Tower Bar, Southwark

What: Tables on the terrace at OXO Tower’s bar can be hard to come by in the summer months, especially - they're available for walk-ins only so make sure you nab a spot in the sun early. Once you’ve secured a place at this eighth-floor bar, you can admire the Insta-worthy panoramic views of London’s skyline, including St Paul’s. The extensive list of cocktails and wines appeals, but our favourite part of the experience is the accomplished bar food – think beef sliders, charcuterie platters and padron peppers.
Where: OXO Tower Wharf, SE1 9PH
Booking for a special occasion? Discover event and party hire options at OXO Tower
Book now: OXO Tower Bar

London Bridge Rooftop, London Bridge

What: London Bridge has long been a destination to head to when you’re after some decent food and drink, and London Bridge Rooftop is just another reason to add to the list. You’ve got unbeatable views of The Shard and the city, oodles of open space, and the kind of food that pairs perfectly with a pint. Plus, if you book on the weekend, you can enjoy 90 minutes of bottomless brunch.
Where: Bridge Walk, SE1 2SX
Book now: London Bridge Rooftop

And Then, Tooting

What: This all in one spot for socialising, drinks, dancing, and music offers one of the best rooftop bars in south west London. Complete with happy hour deals on cocktails (including all day Thursdays), and food from Honest Burger and Yard Sale Pizza, the roof terrace here feels like an escape from the city. To drink, expect classics like Aperol Spritz, Espresso Martinis, Picantes, and Passionfruit Martinis, alongside beers, wine, and low and no alcohol options.
Where: 54a Tooting High Street, SW17 0RN
Booking for a special occasion? Discover event and party hire options at And Then Tooting
Book now: And Then

Forza Wine, Peckham

What: Forza Wine has established a reputation as one of Peckham’s real neighbourhood gems, in part because of the fantastic laid-back Italian cooking but also because of the incredible view from that rooftop terrace. The drinks list offers a range of modern cocktails, including a Frozen Picante, alongside affordable sips and a range of quality, lesser-known wines. Where better to sip a Negroni Sbagliato and watch the sunset over London from south of the river?
Where: 133A Rye Lane, SE15 4BQ
Book now: Forza Wine

Best rooftop bars in west London

For those seeking somewhere sophisticated away from the hustle and bustle of the streets below, these rooftop bars draw a classy crowd of young professionals – and offer some great dining spots too.

The Broadcaster & Aerial Rooftop, White City

What: Housed in the former BBC Television Centre at White City you’ll find The Broadcaster - a lovely one-size-fits-all gastropub and bar that offers hearty British fare at all times of day. This being a pub there’s a good selection of beers on tap, and lots of cocktails too - head up to the Aerial Rooftop and bask in the sun's glow with a Margarita in hand.
Where: 89 Wood Lane, W12 7FX
Book now: The Broadcaster & Aerial Rooftop

Flo Bar, Fulham

What: Hunting for a rooftop bar with a more upmarket feel? Let us introduce you to Flo Bar. Set on the first floor, it’s not as sky-high as some of the others on this list. But what it lacks in altitude, it makes up for with stunning riverside views looking south across the river. Cocktails take cues from botanicals, so you might find the likes of English Garden Negronis, a Strawberry and Rose Spritz, and a Jasmine Paloma, matched with nibbles and snacks.
Where: Fulham Pier, Stevenage Road, SW6 6HH
Booking for a special occasion? Discover event and party hire options at Fulham Pier
Book now: Flo Bar

Sky Bar 9, Wembley

What: Housed at the top of Hilton London Wembley, Sky Bar 9 is a welcoming modern cocktail bar, serving up all the classic cocktails, beers and ciders you could want. You’ll find high top tables and lower lounge-style seating beneath a canopy of hanging greenery, offering shade when needed. And, if you’ve got a classic cocktail in mind, just ask the team - mixologists here are happy to create off-menu items. 
Where: Lakeside Way, HA9 0BU
Book now: Sky Bar 9 at Hilton London Wembley

Skylark Roof Garden, Paddington

What: Whilst there may not be a lot of choice when it comes to the best rooftop bars in West London, Skylark's buzzing atmosphere and stellar views make it one of our favourites. Not only is it much larger than most, but it's also incredibly affordable, offering international menus of bar snacks and small plates alongside its drinks selection. The bar here is exceptionally well-stocked with signature and classic cocktails, mocktails, wines, beers and plenty of fizz.
Where: 4 Kingdom Street, W2 6BD
Book now: Skylark Roof Garden

Best rooftop bars in east London

Edgy east London is where the cool kids hang out. Climb up to some of these quirky rooftop hotspots and embrace your inner hipster with a bottle of something cold.

Florattica Rooftop, Aldgate

What: Sitting pretty on the top floor of Canopy by Hilton London City, Florattica Rooftop is a trendy East London hangout serving innovative cocktails and epic views of the capital. It’s one of the most Instagrammable as well, with a rich floral installation covering the ceiling inspired by the silk-woven floral patterns of East London’s textile industry. Cocktail menus change regularly, often featuring unusual ingredients. The Chichen Itza on the ‘New 7 Wonders of the World’ menu, for instance, features Espolón Tequila, acidified pumpkin juice, and Mayan liqueur.
Where: 15 Minories, EC3N 1AX
Booking for a special occasion? Discover event and party hire options at Canopy by Hilton
Book now: Florattica Rooftop

PocketSquare Skyline Bar, Aldgate East

What: Located between Whitechapel and Aldgate East, cocktail bar Pocket Square can be found on the ninth floor of Hyatt London City East and offers sweeping views of London’s impressive skyline. The gin-led bar offers themed signature cocktail menus, this time six expertly crafted signature gin cocktails (alongside your traditional favourites), inspired by neighbouring east London areas. The ‘Vandalise It!’ cocktail takes cues from Shoreditch’s street art scene, and offers a creative mix of El Gobernador, Aperol, pineapple, grenadine and peach bitters.
Where: 9th Floor Hyatt Place, E1 1DU
Booking for a special occasion? Discover event and party hire options at PocketSquare Skyline Bar & Terrace
Book now: PocketSquare Skyline Bar

STK Rooftop, Stratford

What: STK is both a modern steakhouse and luxurious bar and lounge concept in one. Head to the top floor of The Gantry for sleek decor, signature cocktails and live music from renowned DJs, who keep the vibe alive all night. Don’t miss its weekday happy hour, which sees drinks and bar snacks served at a reduced rate. Plus, if you’re keen to stick around, STK also does a great sunset menu.
Where: 40 Celebration Avenue, E20 1DB
Book now: STK Rooftop

The Edge, Shoreditch

What: A local favourite since 2015, The Edge’s rooftop beer garden which boasts its own bar, screens for the sports, and a retractable roof. The Edge also regularly gets DJs in to amp up the revelry, and a happy hour too. To match, you’ll find plenty of easy going dishes to share (with plenty of vegan options), plus burgers, pizzas, sharing platters, salads, and wraps. 
Where: 23-24 Shoreditch High Street, E1 6PG
Book now: The Edge Shoreditch

The Print House at Jim & Tonic East, Stratford

What: Certainly the most unusual rooftop on this list, alongside street-level bench seating, The Print House terrace at Jim & Tonic East is home to the roofless double-decker Bus Bar, fitted with tables so guests can bask in the sunshine. You’ll find plenty of Jim & Tonic’s sustainable spirits on the menu, and we’d suggest you start with the gin and tonic and rum serves sections on the menu. Expect to see a Dragon number with jasmine and Szechuan gin plus Mallorcan tonic, sage and peppercorns, alongside a Tropic Like It's Hot cocktail with coco-pineapple rum and almond.  
Where: 133-135 High Street, E15 2RB
Booking for a special occasion? Discover event and party hire options at The Rum House at Jim & Tonic East
Book now: The Print House at Jim & Tonic East

Bokan at Novotel, Canary Wharf

What: 39 floors high, the wrap-around terrace at this sky-high rooftop bar is worth the trek to Canary Wharf. Get stuck into a seasonal cocktail menu that includes the delightful Island Breeze, made with discarded banana rum and Two Drifters rum, pineapple, Huana liquor, and amaro, and served in a pineapple glass. Sunny vibes, shady areas, and an ever-interesting drinks list add to the appeal. 
Where: 40 Marsh Wall, E14 9TP
Booking for a special occasion? Discover event and party hire options at Bokan London
Book now: Bokan

Jin Bo Law Skybar, Aldgate

What: 14 floors high, the outdoor terrace at Jin Bo Law Skybar is a long and narrow space, but it's just as well suited to private catch ups and dates as it is to big parties. It offers expansive views of the City, taking in London landmarks like The Gherkin and The ‘Cheesegrater’. Signature cocktails include the likes of the Quince Crush - a blend of Teremana Blanco tequila, pear and fig liqueur, fresh apple, and fig puree - and there's an extravagant line of other drinks, including hefty Champagne bottles that stretch well into four-figure price tags.
Where: 9 Aldgate High Street, EC3N 1AH
Book now: Jin Bo Law Skybar

The Culpeper, Spitalfields

What: Becoming a #plantparent is one trend that is showing no signs of slowing down, and the botanical woodland surrounds of The Culpeper’s rooftop bar are sure to delight any plant enthusiasts. The rustic-chic space features a greenhouse and soil beds, which are used to grow herbs that are then utilised in the pub’s kitchen. All of the expected wines, beers and spirits are available, while you can also enjoy some wonderful rustic gastropub cookery.
Where: 40 Commercial Street, E1 6LP
Book now: The Culpeper

Best rooftop bars in north London

There are gastropubs aplenty in North London, but these venues’ rooftop rafters make them a cut above the rest. Here's where to head for a drink with a view in North London.

The Faltering Fullback, Finsbury Park 

What: While it's not as glitzy or spacious as some others on this list, we’re quite confident that this is North London’s favourite pub. Who could deny the appeal of a pub that’s quirky within and leafy on the outside? It’s an Irish pub too, so you can guarantee the hospitality is spot on, and there’s always something going on, from trad sessions and pub quizzes to bussing live music nights. There’s a Thai kitchen too, in case the ice-cold beer has you hankering for a hit of spice. 
Where: 19 Perth Road, N4 3HB
Book now: The Faltering Fullback

The Lighterman, King's Cross

What: This three-storey, modernist building is actually home to a contemporary pub, and if you head up to the top floor you can enjoy excellent views of the canal from its wraparound terrace. Drinks span cocktails, wines, sparkling and an extensive spirits list, including a fine selection of whisky. 
Where: 3 Granary Square, N1C 4BH
Book now: The Lighterman

The Dark Horse, Camden

What: Set above Camden, The Dark Horse Terrace serves up classic cocktails, cold pints, and wines in a setting blessed with plenty of sunshine. Food menus offer up crisp sourdough pizza, fish and chips, and small plates that are perfect to match with glasses of wine or enjoy during al fresco DJ sets and live performances. Downstairs, The Dark Horse operates as a pub, complete with events and an old-school feel.
Where: Camden Stables Market, 87-88 North Yard, Chalk Farm, NW1 8AH
Book now: The Dark Horse

If you prefer somewhere more secluded and cosy for a tipple, then you might want to check out our list of the best secret bars in London instead. Or if the weather is really good, make it more than just a drink and nab a table at one of London's best outdoor restaurants. 

Alternatively, if you're hunting for an al fresco spot for a celebration, just look to London's best spots for outdoor private dining. And, if your looking for larger spaces, we've got that covered too, simply head to the best London venues with outside space.