When the sun decides to make a rare but glorious appearance over London, there’s only one thing to do—head to a rooftop bar, order a drink, and soak up the skyline. Whether you’re after a swanky cocktail, a casual pint, or a panoramic view of the city’s most iconic landmarks, London’s rooftop bar scene has something for everyone. From high-end hotel terraces to hidden gems above unassuming buildings, here’s your ultimate guide to the best rooftop bars in the capital.
1. Frank’s Café – The Cool Kid’s Favourite

Perched atop a multi-storey car park in Peckham, Frank’s Café is effortlessly cool. This seasonal bar is a pilgrimage site for South London’s hipster crowd, offering Campari-based cocktails, craft beers, and some of the best sunset views in the city. The no-frills setup, picnic tables, and industrial aesthetic only add to its charm. Arrive early to bag a good spot—this place gets packed.
Where: Peckham Best for: Budget-friendly drinks and unbeatable sunsets
2. Sky Garden – The High Society Hangout

If you like your drinks with a side of botanical splendour, Sky Garden is the place to be. Sitting at the top of the ‘Walkie Talkie’ building, this lush, glass-roofed oasis offers breathtaking views of the Thames, the Shard, and beyond. It’s technically free to visit, but booking is essential, and the cocktails don’t come cheap.
Where: The City Best for: Instagrammable skyline views and lush greenery
3. Aviary – For the Glamorous Crowd

Located on the 10th floor of the Montcalm Royal London House Hotel, Aviary is all about elegance. With plush seating, stylish décor, and a terrace that looks out over the city, it’s the perfect place for a sophisticated evening. Whether you opt for a classic negroni or a more adventurous mixology creation, you’ll be sipping in style.
Where: Finsbury Square Best for: Chic vibes and after-work drinks
4. Seabird – Oysters and River Views

For those who love a bit of seafood with their skyline, Seabird is a dream. Sitting atop The Hoxton, Southwark, this Mediterranean-inspired rooftop boasts the longest oyster list in London, along with an excellent selection of wines and cocktails. The views stretch far and wide, and the breezy terrace makes it feel like a mini-holiday in the heart of the city.
Where: Southwark Best for: Seafood lovers and date nights
5. Netil 360 – The East London Gem

This Hackney favourite is the ultimate laid-back rooftop spot. A mix of wooden decking, fairy lights, and mismatched furniture creates an effortlessly cool vibe. It’s part of the Netil House creative hub, meaning you’ll be rubbing shoulders with artists, musicians, and other trendsetters. There’s even a rooftop sauna if you fancy sweating out last night’s negronis.
Where: Hackney Best for: Laid-back drinks and creative crowd-watching
6. Madison – City Slickers and Skyline Views

Madison is where city workers and well-dressed revellers come to toast the end of the week. With St Paul’s Cathedral looming in the background and a lively atmosphere, it’s one of the most popular rooftop destinations in London. Expect DJs, champagne, and plenty of well-heeled professionals unwinding after a long day of deal-making.
Where: St Paul’s Best for: After-work drinks and people-watching
7. 12th Knot – Riverside Sophistication

Perched on the 12th floor of the Sea Containers London hotel, 12th Knot offers a stylish riverside escape. With plush interiors, a beautifully designed terrace, and a cocktail menu that’s as elegant as the surroundings, this is one for those who like a bit of refinement with their rooftop experience.
Where: South Bank Best for: Classy cocktails and Thames views
8. The Culpeper – Rooftop Garden Charm

This cosy rooftop space above a Spitalfields pub is part bar, part urban farm. The rooftop garden grows herbs and vegetables used in the drinks and kitchen downstairs, and the atmosphere is relaxed and unpretentious. Perfect for those who like their cocktails with a bit of sustainability thrown in.
Where: Spitalfields Best for: Relaxed vibes and farm-to-glass cocktails
9. The Rooftop at The Standard – Retro Chic with a View

The Standard hotel in King’s Cross has brought a slice of retro cool to London’s rooftop scene. The vibrant, 1970s-style terrace, complete with bold colours and funky furniture, offers stunning views and a cocktail list to match. It’s playful, stylish, and a great place to soak up the city from above.
Where: King’s Cross Best for: Quirky cocktails and a lively atmosphere
10. Boundary Rooftop – A Hidden Treasure

Tucked away in Shoreditch, Boundary Rooftop is a lesser-known but fantastic spot for an intimate evening. With a heated glass Orangery for colder months and an open-air terrace for summer, it’s a year-round favourite. The Mediterranean-inspired menu and excellent wine list make it a must-visit for foodies.
Where: Shoreditch Best for: Intimate drinks and great food
London’s rooftop bars offer more than just drinks—they provide an experience, a moment to pause and appreciate the city from a different perspective. Whether you’re after a wild night out, a quiet sundowner, or just a chance to pretend you’re in a New York rooftop scene from a movie, there’s a bar waiting for you.
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