Top 10 Summer Rooftop Bars In London

During our already scorching UK summer weather, it is important to know a few of the top ten rooftop bars in London. There is a real variety on offer to suit any occasion, all with their own little perks. Escape the city for a while, have a much needed cooling cocktail and look upon the beautiful city’s skyline whilst catching some rays.

1. Vista, The Trafalgar

For the definition of sophistication, visit Vista at The Trafalgar. This is the ideal spot in the heart of London for city views and a drinks menu of champagne and cocktails. It is one of the most iconic rooftop bars and should therefore certainly be on your to do list.

2. Radio Rooftop Bar, ME London Hotel

Situated on the tenth floor of the ME London Hotel is Radio Rooftop Bar. From here you can see panoramic views of the city with The Shard, London Bridge and Tate Modern all clearly in view. The bar is open daily serving a selection of tapas and cocktails. It achieves a stylish feel and upbeat vibe for day or evening drinks.

3. Kensington Roof Gardens

The Kensington Roof Gardens, now run under Virgin, are split into three themes: Spanish, Tudor and English Woodland. They can be hired out for private events, or around such bookings, are open to the public to enjoy.

4. Queen Elizabeth Roof Gardens Bar and Café

An absolute haven in the heart of the Southbank Centre is The Queen Elizabeth Roof Garden. It is a café bar, allotment patch and garden with fruit trees and wild flowers. Open to the public until late September, it is an ideal spot for sunny summer afternoons in the city.

5. Golden Bee

Located in Shoreditch is the ever so vibrant Golden Bee. It has a stunning rooftop bar with a modern design and well stocked bar. Whether you’re looking for daytime or night-time drinks, it is a great spot. Check their website for happy hour!

6. Angler Rooftop Terrace

The Angler Rooftop Terrace on the 7th floor of the South Palace Hotel is a sophisticated spot accessed via the Michelin-starred Angler restaurant. Its comfortable seating with simplistic décor of purple lavender and small olive trees is just right against the backdrop of the financial district. It is a busy venue, so time it right, but a fantastic spot for afternoon drinks with clients of sunset cocktails with friends.

7. Sushisamba

At the top of the Heron Tower is Sushisamba’s restaurant and sky bar – a mix of Japan, Brazil and Peru in cuisine, music, and design. It is a venue offering fantastic food, stunning cocktails and an extensive list of wines and beers. The sky bar offers incredible views across the city as it looks over the Gherkin and River Thames from London’s highest outdoor terrace.

8. Madison

Madison has one of the largest public roof terraces in Europe which offers breathtaking views of St Paul’s Cathedral and the city. It is a tranquil place amongst all of the hustle and bustle below, where you can enjoy tapas and cocktails for lunches or evenings.

9. Aqua Spirit

Overlooking Regent Street is this stylish rooftop bar offering fantastic cocktails. You’ll also find two restaurants; for Japanese foods go to Aqua Kyoto and Spanish cuisine, go to Aqua Nueva. It is a popular and perhaps obvious rooftop bar so choose your seat early.

10. F.Y.I.: The Sky Garden

The spectacular new edition to the city is The Sky Garden, which will quickly become a London hotspot. Unfortunately, the opening date has now been pushed back to October; but with hope that the autumn months are kind, the views from this spot will be beautiful. The Sky Garden is across three floors which include a landscape garden, bar, public terrace, restaurant and café.