Best Bars In London With A View

London offers one of the most famous skylines in the world, from St Paul's Cathedral's iconic dome to the towering Shard and meandering River Thames. Luckily the city also boasts some equally impressive drinking dens in which to sip on something crisp and take it all in. Whether you're in the market for a rooftop terrace or a riverside pub, we've rounded up the very best bars with a view in London.

London Bars With A View

Last edited by Scarlett Welch

Last updated on 15th July 2025




Madison

Gaze out over St Paul's Cathedral and The City on Madison's swanky rooftop terrace. The slick bar and restaurant is perfect for a glass of chilled Champagne or, come evening, watching the sunset with some of their delicious seafood.

This summer, the space has been transformed into a stunning oasis filled with pampas grass, olive branches and gypsophila woven together to create pretty cloudscapes. You'll be able to kick back and enjoy delicious plates such as ceviche and herby garlic fries, or enjoy three courses paired with an Aperol spritz. 

Union Social at The Gantry

Looking for a place to enjoy delicious food and drinks with a stunning view in East London? Look no further than Union Social at The Gantry. This rooftop bar is one of the top contenders in Stratford, with its gorgeous terrace, swanky interiors, and floor-to-ceiling windows that provide breathtaking views of the city. And that's not all: you can also enjoy late-night DJ sets, funky artwork from Jealous Gallery, and a range of international plates to satisfy your cravings.

Kaso Rooftop Bar & Kitchen

Escape to sunny California without stepping foot out of East London with a visit to Kaso Rooftop Bar & Kitchen at One Hundred Shoreditch. As soon as you head upstairs, you'll be greeted by panoramic views of London's skyline, the pink marble decor, lush succulents, and cacti all around you. Plus, the retro Californian menu is to die for, with wild mushroom tacos, shrimp burgers, margaritas, and martinis galore. Head down for breathtaking views and good vibes all around.

Setlist

A bar, event space and community hub all in one, Setlist can be found on the terrace of Somerset House. It promises amazing views of the Thames, as well as a regular lineup of live music, DJ sets and even art installations.

They champion local talent and a diverse range of performers, and the culinary scene is just as exciting. They've got a team of female chefs running the kitchen, cooking up the likes of mushroom and celeriac tacos, pork quesadillas or smoked aubergine pizzas.

Glasshouse On The Roof

Two for one cocktail

Looking for a place that combines stunning views and a lively atmosphere? Glasshouse at the NYX Hotel is a rooftop bar like no other. With its vibrant neon lights, bold décor, and electric vibe, this rooftop haven on the 10th floor is the perfect place to unwind.

The cocktail menu is just as exciting, with creations like the Bling Bellini and Mint Hit to keep your taste buds dancing. Whether you're enjoying the sun, relaxing under the retractable roof, or grooving to international funk, this is the spot to enjoy the London skyline in style.

Aqua Nueva

Ready to spice up your life with delectable contemporary Spanish tapas and epic vistas over London? Head to Aqua Nueva on Regent Street and indulge in chef Yahir Gonzalez's fresh and seasonal plates of goodness that are perfect for sharing; we're talking goodies like spiced crab tostadas, bacalao tacos with taramasalata, and so much more. And if you're in the mood to soak up some iconic London views, hop on to the rooftop terrace and sip on hand-crafted cocktails while soaking in the sunshine and all the gorgeousness the city has to offer.

Aqua Kyoto

Looking for a prime spot to impress and unwind with innovative Japanese cocktails and stunning views? Aqua Kyoto's got your back. Located on the fifth floor of the famous former Dickins & Jones building, the rooftop space is a blooming paradise of silk hydrangeas and panoramic views that'll leave you in awe. Head down to sip on expertly crafted cocktails like the Sweet Escape, a blend of Pampero rum, Chambord, Peach Schnapps, vanilla, passion fruit and lemon or the Geisha, a combination of sake, vodka, lychee and rose.

Smiths of Smithfield

Chef's Choice Menu and 1 other offer

Discover a rooftop dining experience steeped in history at Smiths of Smithfield, nestled in a Grade II-listed building next to the iconic Smithfield Market in London's Farringdon. This unique location offers not just fantastic city views but also a chance to immerse yourself in the city's rich heritage while sipping on lip-smacking cocktails and wines.

Indulge your taste buds with a taste of their small plates, featuring beautifully prepared octopus carpaccio, grilled pork chops, or caviar-topped hash browns, all while soaking in the swanky, vibrant atmosphere.

Oystercatcher

Bottomless Brunch and 1 other offer

When it comes to London pubs with a view, Oystercatcher's riverside location - complete with floor-to-ceiling windows throughout the interiors and a huge outdoor terrace on the waterfront - is just the ticket. See across Greenwich, Isle of Dogs and Canary Wharf here, with the likes of bottomless brunches, sustainable cocktails and more on the cards.

Forza Wine at the National Theatre

Forza Wine at the National Theatre offers stunning riverside views paired with a laid-back atmosphere, perfect for sipping on natural wines or expertly crafted cocktails. Enjoy seasonal, Italian-inspired dishes meant for sharing, from cauliflower fritti to hearty fish and steaks.

Whether you're indulging in soft-serve ice cream or their unique Custardos® dessert, the menu is designed to delight. With a dynamic wine selection and a lively ambience, it's a great spot for anything from pre-show drinks to a special birthday lunch.

The White Swan, Twickenham

One of the prettiest spots for a drink in West London, The White Swan can be found on the banks of the Thames in Twickenham. You can look out over the water from their charming courtyard, which is filled with rustic wooden furniture and leafy plants.

This is a Grade II-listed, 17th century boozer with a lot of history to it. There's a wide range of cask ales available, alongside seasonal British dishes like beer-battered haddock and chips, pan-fried chicken breast or sticky teriyaki beef.

Pitch Wharf

If you're looking for amazing views of Canary Wharf, then head to Pitch Wharf. This quirky spot comes with a sunny outdoor terrace, which looks out over the business district and beyond.

That's not all that's on offer here though, as they've got shuffleboard tables and a range of fun, interactive golf games on their simulation screens. Plus, you can nab tasty Asian bites like kimchi smash burgers, pork bao buns and spicy vegetable dumplings.

SAMBA ROOM

Found one floor up from their iconic restaurant counterpart at Heron Tower, SUSHISAMBA, SAMBA ROOM is a stunning cocktail bar and lounge space that boasts many of the same City of London views. Think vistas from the 39th floor, intimate seating, mid-century decor with a Brazilian leaning, and a condensed version of the downstairs restaurant's menu - featuring Brazilian, Japanese and Peruvian fusion dishes.

The Vault 1894

Nestle underneath Tower Bridge, The Vault 1894 is a historic pub on the banks of the Thames. It features quirky decor, rustic interiors and low ceilings - sitting at five feet high across the room, reflecting the average height of Londoners when it was built in the 1890s.

Sit outside for the very best views over the water, and don't miss their happy hour, when you can enjoy two-for-one cocktails. They serve everything from Aperol spritz to an espresso martini, alongside tasty dishes like fish and chips or burgers.

Bondi Green

Sun, Sips & 25% Off Cocktails This Summer!

Looking out over Regent's Canal from its alfresco terrace, Bondi Green is the Australian-inspired bar and restaurant that promises great drinks alongside all-day dining. Think killer coffee and cocktails, as well as a great value bottomless brunch.

As for the menu, expect everything from fancy bacon rolls to sweetcorn fritters and juicy beef burgers. What's more, they've got two other venues by the water in Paddington: Beany Green and Darcie & May Green.