31 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 meal (or 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 a high-rise bar. Our guide to the best rooftop bars in London proves that point perfectly, with well over 30 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 spots 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 a civilised supper under the stars, get yourself to one of London's best rooftop bars asap. Scroll down to find SquareMeal’s ultimate list. We’re confident that one or two of these top-floor hotspots will become a regular occurrence, whatever the occasion.

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.

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 boasting 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, before heading inside to feast on green bean tempura with black truffle aioli or sushi rolls topped with lobster and crab.
Where: 110 Bishopsgate, EC2N 4AY
Book now: SUSHISAMBA

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

Aqua Nueva, Soho

What: Part of the Aqua restaurant group (Aqua Shard, Aqua Kyoto etc.), this upmarket Spanish joint boasts a stunning rooftop terrace. Perfect for bigger groups, Aqua Nueva's outdoor terrace features long L-shaped couches laden with cushions, and tables equipped with high wicker stools to rest your drinks on. Views of the London Eye and other landmarks are a further draw, as is the menu of Spanish dishes – including the likes of padron peppers, wild mushroom croquettes and pan con tomate.
Where: 240 Regent Street, W1B 3BR
Book now: Aqua Nueva

Sessions Arts Club, Clerkenwell

What: Having trouble securing a booking at Sessions Arts Club? It’s worth rocking up and seeing if you can head up to the roof terrace, which often accepts walk-ins. Not only that, it's rather beautiful up here (no surprise given the restaurant below) and the menu is perfect for a bit of small plate snacking alongside a good Martini or a glass of something crisp and white.
Where: 22 Clerkenwell Green, EC1R 0NA
Book now: Sessions Art Club

Sky Pod 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 at Sky Garden

LSQ Rooftop, Soho

What: Nine floors above the buzz of the West End at 1 Leicester Square, you’ll find LSQ Rooftop. Floor-to-ceiling windows and a wrap-around balcony provide absolutely stunning London views, and the bar is exceptionally well-stocked with signature and classic cocktails, mocktails, wines, beers and plenty of fizz.
Where: 1 Leicester Square, WC2H 7NA
Book now: LSQ Rooftop

Iris Bar at The Gherkin, City of London

What: The only indoor rooftop bar in the capital to boast unobstructed 360-degree views, Iris is a bar that should be on every discerning Londoner’s ‘to visit’ list. Due to the building’s high security, tables have to be booked in advance and you also have to bring valid ID. You’ll soon forget about all that faff though, thanks to those stunning views across London, as well as an impressive cocktail list which features some great signatures like the 175 Together (Martini Riserva Bitter, Martini Riserva Rubino, Bombay Bramble gin, Apry liqueur and Champagne).
Where: 30 St Mary Axe, EC3A 8EP
Book now: Iris at The Gherkin

Radio Rooftop, Charing Cross

What: A place to see and be seen, this glamorous bar on the roof of the ME London hotel boasts views across the capital and a chic black and white colour scheme, offset by wicker chairs and lush greenery trailing the terrace borders. You can splash the cash by ordering from the comprehensive Champagne list, or keep things fresh by sampling a few of the drinks from Radio Rooftop’s considered selection of signature cocktails. If you’re feeling peckish, chow down on an internationally-inspired menu – think croquettes, beef sliders and churros for dessert.
Where: 336-337 The Strand, WC2R 1HA
Book now: Radio Rooftop

Garden Rooftop, Covent Garden

What: Towering over Leicester Square and Covent Garden, you’ll find the Garden Rooftop on the 10th floor of the Assembly Hotel. As you might expect, there’s greenery everywhere, and the bar offers a nice mix of signature and classic cocktails until midnight every night. A very calm and pleasant place to spend an evening. 
Where: Assembly Hotel, WC2H 0LS
Book now: Garden Rooftop

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.

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
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 city, oodles of open space, and the kind of food that pairs perfectly with a pint. Plus if you book in at the weekend, you can enjoy 90 minutes of bottomless brunch.
Where: Bridge Walk, SE1 2SX
Book now: London Bridge Rooftop

12^th Knot at Sea Containers, South Bank

What: Formerly known as the Rumpus Room, imbibers at this colourful rooftop bar can enjoy stunning views across the South Bank thanks to floor-to-ceiling windows. Cocktails here are serious business and they change with the seasons. Drink to a backdrop of live music on Wednesdays and DJs for the latter half of the week. Impossibly glamorous - note the glittering chandeliers and velvet furnishings – 12th Knot is full of flare and is always packed to the rafters with London’s cool set. It should be on every Londoner’s rooftop bar bucket list.
Where: 20 Upper Ground, SE1 9PD
Book now: 12th Knot at Sea Containers

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. 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

Bussey Rooftop Bar, Peckham

What: This popular Peckham drinking den is perched atop the Bussey Building, with millennial-baiting decor that includes colour pop walls, mismatched furniture and faux foliage that wraps around wooden columns. Come to Bussey Rooftop Bar for the 360-degree views of London and stay for the classic cocktails and delicious pizza from kitchen residents ‘Share A Slice’ (who donate one pizza to the homeless every time a pizza is purchased).
Where: Rooftop Unit 133, SE15 4ST
Book now: Bussey Rooftop Bar

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.

Sloane Club Roof Terrace, Chelsea

What: If you’re after some peace and quiet after a day of shopping on the King’s Road, then Sloane Club's roof terrace is the hidden gem you need to know about. In the evenings, guests can sway along to live music from a range of exciting acts, while an all-day food menu and a drinks programme courtesy of Whispering Angel makes this a must-visit during the summer.
Where: 62 Lower Sloane Street, SW1W 8DH
Book now: Sloane Club Roof Terrace

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

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

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. Cocktails start from £16 and feature unusual ingredients – one called Crimson, for example, contains Campari, lactofermented plum and citrus.
Where: 15 Minories, EC3N 1AX
Book now: Florattica Rooftop

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.
Where: 40 Celebration Avenue, E20 1DB
Book now: STK Rooftop

The Queen of Hoxton, Hoxton

What: One of the most popular rooftop bars Shoreditch has to offer, The Queen of Hoxton is a three floor party palace featuring a basement nightclub, a buzzy ground-floor bar and this expansive roof terrace which usually has a seasonal theme. This year's Terraza Del Sol theme brings Spanish summer vibes to the rooftop with lush tropical plants, sculptures and a cactus wall garden, as well as refreshing Latin-inspired cocktails and a menu packed with bright summery tacos, loaded nachos and more.
Where: 1-5 Curtain Road, EC2A 3JX
Book now: The Queen of Hoxton

Savage Garden at DoubleTree by Hilton Tower of London, 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
Book now: Savage Garden at DoubleTree by Hilton Tower of London

Bokan 38 at Novotel Canary Wharf

What: 38 floors high, the wrap-around terrace at this sky-high restaurant and bar is worth the trek to Canary Wharf. Get stuck into a seasonal cocktail menu that includes the delightful Tropic Thunder, made with discarded banana rum, Chambord, pineapple, mango, lemon and grenadine and served in a ceramic tiki mug, and grab a spot with gorgeous views out over the city. Meanwhile, resident DJ Soulkiss spins chill out beats to take the relaxation to maximum. 
Where: 40 Marsh Wall, E14 9TP
Book now: Bokan

Boundary Rooftop Bar, Shoreditch

What: Open all-year round, the rooftop space at Boundary consists of a glass-walled orangery and an outdoor terrace, as well as a bar and grill restaurant. Boasting views of East London, Boundary’s menu changes with the seasons, meaning grilled meats and fish and vibrant salads in the summer, and Alpine-themed fare come the winter – think fondue and vin chaud. Twinkling lights and house plants lined along the terrace borders add a romantic touch, making Boundary a good spot for date night.
Where: 2-4 Boundary Street, E2 7DD
Book now: Boundary Rooftop Bar

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 eight expertly crafted signature cocktails (alongside your traditional favourites), each with their own story and accompanying food pairings - try the Stoker (Campari, blood orange, pumpkin spice, Grand Marnier and grenadine) with the smoked meatball sliders, or the Aurelian (Las Olas rum, Lapsang, Firecracker distillate, Perique with cinnamon powder and hay) with the spicy tempura chicken and sweet chilli. 
Where: 9th Floor Hyatt Place, E1 1DU
Book now: PocketSquare Skyline Bar

Aviary, City of London

What: Finding its nest on the rooftop of the Royal London House Hotel, tenth-floor Aviary is a chic and sleek rooftop bar, boasting an outdoor terrace that attracts the suited-and-booted folk of the City. The terrace boasts an impressive view which overlooks the likes of The Gherkin, the ‘walkie-talkie’ and The Shard. All your favourite drinks are taken care of with cocktails, wines and Champagnes all featuring, but note that Aviary is now totally cash-free.
Where: 22-25 Finsbury Square, EC2A 1 DX
Book now: Aviary

Allegra, Stratford

What: Stratford is a liittle short on swish joints, so restaurant, bar and roof terrace Allegra is a welcome addition for special occasions. Seven floors up, the extensive wrap around terrace is a sleek space featuring an abundance of plants, water features and neutral wooden tones and it’s also something of a sun-trap during the summer months. For the optimal Allegra experience, bag one of the oversized deck chairs and take advantage of a glass of fizz and a plate of oysters. 
Where: 20-22 International Way, E20 1GQ
Book now: Allegra

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 Old Tokyo Fashion - a blend of Japanese whisky, cacao nibs, honey, marmalade and orange bitters - 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

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

The Culpeper, Spitalfields

What: Becoming a #plantparent is one trend that is showing no signs of slowing down and the botanical 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 vegetables that are then utilised in the pub’s kitchen. All of the expected wine, beers and spirits are available, while you can also enjoy some wonderful rustic gastropub cookery, and a great roast on a Sunday.
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. 

The Rooftop at The Standard, King's Cross

What: The astro turf rooftop at one of London’s quirkiest hotels is back for another year. Amazing skyline views from King’s Cross are the perfect backdrop for cocktails, fizz on tap and Spanish street food via Decimiño - a bright red taco truck with easy-going tapas devised by Decimo's Peter Sanchez-Iglesias.
Where: 10 Argyle Street, WC1H 8EG
Book now: The Rooftop at The Standard

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

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 rooftop restaurants, or at the very least, one of London's best outdoor restaurants. Click here for our complete listings of London bars, where you can filter by ambiance, price, occasion and more to find your perfect location.