Some Stunning Rooftop Bars in London

Relaxing with a drink while enjoying superb views of London’s skyline offers a wonderful way to spend the evening – and there are some stunning rooftop bars to try.

By far the most iconic views can be found when you visit the bars at the Oxo Tower or Mondrian at Sea Container. Book a stay in one of the popular hotels like Park City Grand Plaza Kensington hotel and enjoy incredible views across the river Thames towards the great dome of St Pauls. Stylish and popular, these bars can get very busy so if you want a seat with the best views it is wise to get there early.  Mondrian is especially popular with lovers of Jazz music as some nights live musicians provide fascinating entertainment.

Also on the South Bank is Bar Elba, close to Waterloo Station.  Awnings provide some shelter on cool evenings.  Quirky décor evoking the island of Elba complete strings of fairy lights make this an even more eye-catching place to be on a summers evening in London.  Cocktails, especially slushy ones, are a popular option, so why not experiment and try something new?

Across the river in Shoreditch, why not try out the Queen of Hoxton. It is certainly different and very experimental with new themes constantly being unveiled for its terrace bar.  The latest style is described as Lost Vegas so expect boozy ice lollies in vending machines, slot machines, creative cocktails and good food.   

The Golden Bee near Old Street Station is another unusual rooftop bar offering good views of the city skyline. Expect slick, almost futuristic interior design and a relaxed atmosphere complete with large, plush sofas.  Heaters and blankets are readily available if temperatures drop, ensuring that conversations can continue unabated.

Whitechapel’s The Culpepper is small and intimate, a little hideaway offering good food which you can also search at restaurants in Kensington London and good beer.  Many of the vegetables and herbs used in the kitchen are actually grown on the roof garden.  Not far away is SkyGarden, a public space 155 meters in the sky where you can enjoy yoga sessions, live music and much more.

If you prefer a more rustic look, then head for The Faltering Fullback in Finsbury Park.  Lush greenery creates a secret garden atmosphere, while wooden benches surrounded by trellis and wooden awnings evoke the intimacy of a tree house, providing just that little bit of shelter when needed.  It gets very popular, so head there early if you want to choose a good spot to enjoy the vibes.

For those with a head for heights, the Heron Tower in Bishopsgate is well worth trying.  This is a bar definitely high in the sky, as the terrace bar can be found across the 38th and 39th floors of this massive building.  Some say these are the highest dining and drinking areas in Europe – but one thing is certain, it definitely offers incredible 360- degree views of London!