Where To Find London’s Iconic Rooftop Bars
London is one of the world's great cities, boasting an incredible history and cultural legacy. It is a perennial tourist favorite, hosting some of the world's best restaurants and historic pubs and an incredible array of bars. Here's a detailed look at 20 of London's most iconic rooftop bars, known for their stunning views, unique histories, and impressive drinks menus:
Aqua Spirit, 240 Regent St, Soho, London W1B 3BRAqua Spirit is part of the Aqua group, which also runs Aqua Kyoto and Aqua Nueva. The rooftop offers a panoramic view of London's skyline, especially the West End. It is known for its Japanese-inspired cocktails, premium sakes, and extensive wine list. Its signature drink is Roku Rickey, a refreshing gin cocktail made with Japanese Roku gin, yuzu, and elderflower tonic.
Radio Rooftop Bar, 336337 Strand, London WC2R 1HALocated atop the ME London Hotel, Radio Rooftop is named for its history as the site of one of the first radio transmissions in London. The drinks menu offers a sophisticated selection of cocktails, wines, and spirits. The signature drink is the Strand Sunset: a blend of vodka, peach liqueur, and fresh fruit juices.
Sky Garden (Sky Pod Bar), 20 Fenchurch St, London EC3M 8AFSituated in the "Walkie Talkie" building, the Sky Garden offers a lush garden setting 35 floors up, with breathtaking views. The drinks menu offers innovative cocktails, including botanical infusions, wines, and champagnes. The signature drink is Sky Garden G&T: a twist on the classic gin and tonic with elderflower and herbs.
The Rooftop St. James, 7th Floor, Trafalgar St. James Hotel, 2 Spring Gardens, London SW1A 2TSThis chic rooftop bar, part of The Trafalgar St. James Hotel, overlooks Trafalgar Square and offers unparalleled views of iconic London landmarks. The drinks menu offers modern cocktails with a British twist and extensive wine and champagne options. The signature drink is Nelson's Column: a gin-based cocktail with a hint of Earl Grey tea and citrus.
Madison, 1 New Change, London EC4M 9AFLocated in the heart of the City, Madison offers stunning views of St. Paul's Cathedral and is a favorite among city professionals. The drinks menu presents classic and contemporary cocktails, craft beers, and a well-curated wine list. The signature drink is Madison Mojito: a refreshing twist on the classic mojito with a splash of champagne.
Sushisamba, 38th and 39th floors, Heron Tower, 110 Bishopsgate, London EC2N 4AYCombining Japanese, Brazilian, and Peruvian cultures, Sushisamba is known for its fusion cuisine and vibrant atmosphere. The drinks menu offers creative cocktails featuring exotic ingredients, sake, and fine wines. The signature drink is Samba Sour: a pisco-based cocktail with yuzu, passion fruit, and shiso leaves.
Aviary, 10th Floor, Montcalm Royal London House, 2225 Finsbury Square, London EC2A 1DXAviary offers a luxurious setting with panoramic views of the City and beyond, perfect for relaxed afternoons and lively evenings. The drinks menu features classic cocktails, fine wines, and craft beers. The signature drink is Bird of Prey: a rum-based cocktail with pineapple, lime, and aromatic bitters.
Pergola Paddington, 5 Kingdom St, London W2 6PYAn outdoor rooftop oasis in Paddington, Pergola is known for its laidback vibe, communal seating, and a variety of street food vendors. The drinks menu features summer spritzes, refreshing cocktails, and craft beers. The signature drink is Raspberry and Basil Smash: a gin cocktail with fresh raspberries and basil leaves.
Netil 360, 1 Westgate St, London E8 3RLA community-focused rooftop in Hackney, Netil 360 is a creative hub with events, yoga classes, and a relaxed bar with a DIY ethos. The drinks menu features local craft beers, natural wines, and fresh cocktails. The signature drink is Hackney Hooch: a blend of local spirits, lemon, and honey.
The Culpeper Rooftop, 40 Commercial St, London E1 6LPThe Culpeper is a rooftop garden above a historic pub known for its farm-to-table ethos, with many ingredients sourced on site. The drinks menu features seasonal cocktails, craft beers, and organic wines. The signature drink is Garden Spritz: a refreshing aperitif made with herbs from the rooftop garden.
Part of the stylish Sea Containers London hotel, 12th Knot offers a vibrant, luxurious setting with stunning views of the River Thames and the City. The drinks menu offers modern twists on classic cocktails, featuring fresh ingredients. The signature drink is River View: a gin-based cocktail with elderflower, cucumber, and mint.
Savage Garden, 7 Pepys St, London EC3N 4AFLocated atop the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel, Savage Garden offers a dramatic, edgy design with striking views of the Tower of London. The drinks menu features bold, inventive cocktails, alongside a selection of premium spirits and wines. The signature drink is Savage Spritz: a prosecco based cocktail with a spicy ginger kick.
Queen of Hoxton, 1 Curtain Rd, London EC2A 3JXA Shoreditch institution, Queen of Hoxton's rooftop bar changes theme seasonally, offering immersive experiences ranging from winter wonderlands to summer fiestas. The drinks menu features playful cocktails, local craft beers, and themed drinks. The signature drink is Queen's Punch: a fruity, rum-based punch served in a large bowl for sharing.
The Nest at Treehouse, 1415 Langham Place, London W1B 2QSPerched atop the eco-friendly Treehouse Hotel, The Nest offers panoramic views of London in a cozy, nature-inspired setting. The drinks menu features craft cocktails focused on sustainability, natural wines, and organic spirits. The signature drink is the Treehouse Martini, a twist on the classic martini with organic vodka and foraged botanicals.
Rooftop at The Standard, 10 Argyle St, London WC1H 8EGA vibrant and eclectic rooftop atop The Standard Hotel in King's Cross offers a playful atmosphere with stunning city views. The drinks menu features funky, creative cocktails, frozen drinks, and natural wines. The signature drink is a frozen Margarita. A refreshing frozen cocktail with tequila, lime, and a hint of chili.
Jin Bo Law Skybar, Dorsett City Hotel, 9 Aldgate High St, London EC3N 1AHSituated in the Dorsett City Hotel, Jin Bo Law offers an Asian-inspired rooftop experience with spectacular views of London's iconic landmarks. The drinks menu features exotic cocktails with Asian influences alongside premium spirits and wines. The signature drink is the Shiso Mule: a twist on the Moscow Mule with Japanese shiso leaves and ginger beer.
Boundary Rooftop, 24 Boundary St, London E2 7DDBoundary Rooftop offers a Mediterranean vibe with 360-degree views of East London, along with a grill menu and cozy seating. The drinks menu features classic cocktails, Mediterranean wines, and seasonal sangrias. The signature drink is the Boundary Negroni: a Mediterranean twist on the classic Negroni with orange and rosemary.
Rumpus Room, 20 Upper Ground, South Bank, London SE1 9PDPart of Sea Containers London, Rumpus Room is a glamorous rooftop bar with Art Deco influences and stunning river views. The drinks menu features elegant cocktails, champagnes, and fine wines. The signature drink is Southbank Fizz: a champagne cocktail with elderflower and fresh berries.
Roof East, Great Eastern Rd, London E15 1BBRoof East is a fun, vibrant rooftop in Stratford, known for its games, street food, and colorful cocktails. The drinks menu features refreshing summer cocktails, craft beers, and street food-inspired drinks. The signature drink is the Stratford Sling: a fruity gin cocktail with a tropical twist.
Coq d'Argent, 1 Poultry, London EC2R 8EJAn elegant rooftop garden in the heart of the City, Coq d'Argent offers French cuisine and sophisticated cocktails with a view of London's skyline. The drinks menu features classic French cocktails, fine wines, and champagnes. The signature drink is the French 75: a classic champagne cocktail with gin, lemon juice, and a hint of sugar.
These rooftop bars offer some of the best views in London and provide unique experiences through their drinks menus and ambiance, making each visit memorable.
