London’s Best Rooftop Bars You Must Visit
London is not lacking in places under the clouds. There are so many rooftop bars in London that it’s easy to choose one that will be a perfect place for a relaxing evening or a fancy dinner or to spend some time with friends and family. London rooftop bars can be enjoyed not only during long summer evenings, when the sun slowly hides behind the horizon, but also in winter when you can enjoy a festive atmosphere with a warm blanket, and sparkling garland. So, we decided to dedicate our next guide to the best rooftop bars in London.
Rather it’s a full course or just a snack, it is always twice better with a view. And if you don’t know where you can watch the panorama of London from, HeyTripster created a list of London’s Best Rooftop Bars You Must-Visit where you can enjoy the view and the sky over the capital.
Contents
1. Radio
Radio Rooftop is a trendy London bar that’s always buzzing with life. Its main feature is a great view of the river Thames. The trendy bar is located on the roof of the no less trendy ME London hotel. First BBC radio signals were broadcast from the roof of the Marconi building in 1922, and this is where the name of the bar comes from. Here, life is in full swing – dancing, big noisy companies, and new acquaintances.
Radio Rooftop is one of the iconic places in London where you can enjoy board games, tri-cheese fondue in addition to stunning views of the Thames and the London skyline. From the 10th floor of the ME London hotel, you can see the Parliament, Tower Bridge, and other main landmarks of the British capital.
The interior is quite minimalistic. Monochrome decor and white leather sofas, slow house music, and palm trees give a feeling as if you are in Ibiza. It is a perfect place to enjoy the sunset. Radio also has a lunch menu from 12:00 to 17:00. There is also a brunch menu for the ones who want a glamorous start to the day at the weekend. DJs play music until 2 am.
No matter when you visit the bar you will enjoy amazing views of the capital, stretching from St. Paul’s Cathedral to Big Ben.
If you visit London during the winter holidays, you can book one of the sky-high Winter Bubbles. The capacity of each is 6 people maximum. There are several types of bubbles serving delicious snacks, or a full course.
2. Aviary
Aviary Bar is located on the 10th floor of the Montcalm Hotel in Finsbury Square, between Liverpool Street and Moorgate underground stations.
The restaurant of the hotel houses one of the largest outdoor terraces in this part of the city. That is why you might struggle to book a table at Aviary. But if you manage to, you’ll be rewarded with great views, stylish furnishings, and the sunshine, thanks to the south-facing veranda. A stunning view is accompanied with the modern British menu. The place is worth visiting to enjoy fresh seafood dishes. This spacious bar is an excellent choice to have a Sunday brunch or to relax after a long workday.
Iconic rooftop heated igloos give an opportunity to enjoy breathtaking views and an outstanding menu even during cold weather.
Tip: Book in advance and try a strawberry cheesecake with whipped cream and Belgian biscuit crumbs.
3. Coq d’Argent
Coq d’Argent is a gourmet French restaurant with a beautiful terrace garden, a real green oasis in the heart of the city. It is located in the center of the City of London and has a view of the Bank of England, the Shard skyscraper, and other local attractions. The arctic rooftop bar opened in winter offers relaxing igloos. The ambiance is complemented by the snow-white decor and simulated Northern Lights.
The stunning views opening from the green rooftop garden and fine dining are pricey. But you can find affordable options such as a croque-monsieur from the bar menu. Enjoy the beautiful view.
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4. Skylight at Tobacco Dock
Even though Skylight is not the most luxurious rooftop bar, it is definitely worth visiting because of its dazzling London views. The place includes three different street food bars, where you can taste Asian dishes, burgers, and flavourful juicy chicken wings.
This is a great place where you can watch the game of your favorite team shown on large screens, measure your strength while playing croquet and petanque with your friends. In winter, there is also a skating rink on the roof.
Skylight Tobacco Dock is also included in our 20+ Best Outdoor Activities in London That Will Change Your View of The Capital Forever list. We suggest checking it out if you want to test London’s outdoor activity potential.
5. Pergola Paddington
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Pergola Paddington is one of the most popular summer bars. The London rooftop bar has two floors, many long tables, and benches and can seat up to 850 people. The Pergola Paddington includes 4 restaurants, 2 bars, DJ performances on the weekends, and a large shady rooftop garden. So you can try a wide variety of drinks and a mix of different types of street food in the open air. Although Pergola Paddington is not as high up as the rest locations from our guide, it still is a great venue rather you are looking for a place to relax on weekends or to party after work.
6. Trafalgar St James Rooftop
Rooftop St James is the most popular bar in London. A magnificent view of Trafalgar Square opens from the top of a year-round famous terrace. The place is always crowded because everyone wants to chat overlooking the central part of London. But despite that, this bar is a must-see because it has everything to guarantee a lovely dinner or lunch including Pan-Asian cuisine, and a fantastic view of the British capital.
7. Madison
Madison Terrace London is one of the most beautiful panoramic restaurants with a view of St. Paul’s Cathedral and the beautiful city in general. Thanks to the unique location of the venue, guests of the Large terrace restaurant can almost touch the dome of the majestic Cathedral. It’s a perfect place to simply enjoy the views and the high-quality music. But in case you feel like snacking, we recommend ordering a wood-fired burger. In winter, the rooftop terrace becomes a snow-white winter forest.
8. Seabird
The Seabird restaurant, located on the 14th floor of The Hoxton Hotel, is one of the hottest new places in town. The idea behind this venue was to create a piece of southern Europe in London. Potted palm trees, bleached wood floors, and rattan furniture give a feeling as if you are somewhere near the coast. But it is not the only reason why guests flock here. Seabird was designed by the team of the famous seafood restaurant, Maison Premiere. Seabird serves excellent seafood and has the largest oyster menu in London. In addition, the menu features Iberico pork, rib steak, flavourful eggplant. A cozy ambiance is accompanied by panoramic views of the River Thames, Westminster, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and The Shard.
Tip: Visit Seabird brunch on weekend to try five variations of Bloody Marys and a savory Bucks Fizz with marmalade.
9. Aqua Kyoto
Aqua Kyoto is a real oasis in the heart of bustling Oxford Street, where you can relax after shopping or work and enjoy the sunset.
Speaking of shopping, if you are looking for inspiration you may want to check out our The Best of London Shopping in One Day.
The venue is located in the nearest vicinity of Oxford Circus and is one of the best outdoor bars in London. Its panoramic terrace has jaw-dropping views of central London. The restaurant offers upscale Japanese cuisine, and the brunches are a must-go if you are a fan of sushi sashimi, tempura shrimps, kimchi, chicken and vegetable yakitori, miso, and omakase dessert. You will spend an unforgettable time admiring dazzling London views.
10. Alto by San Carlo at Selfridges
Restaurant Alto by San Carlo is located on the top of one of the world’s most famous department stores, Selfridges. Its beautiful panoramic terrace is decorated with tons of flowers, lounge chairs, cabanas and has four separate dining spaces.
This is a perfect location for delicious breakfast, an upscale lunch, or dinner. The Alto menu features Italian dishes made from the finest ingredients. Visit this little piece of Italy to relax after shopping and enjoy amazing views.
