The Sterling

Description

Nestled beneath London’s iconic Gherkin, The Sterling is a sophisticated bar that shifts effortlessly with the seasons - and right now, it's the perfect place to enjoy these long summer days. Our expansive outdoor terrace, bathed in sunshine and framed by one of the city’s most striking landmarks, is ideal for after-work drinks, weekend catch-ups, and golden hour cocktails. It’s one of the best spots in the City to unwind, connect, and enjoy the buzz of London life.

But while the summer sun still shines, the most magical time of year is just around the corner…

As autumn approaches, The Sterling begins its transformation into a warm, festive escape from the winter chill. Fairy lights, rich seasonal flavours, and the hum of holiday cheer make it the ideal setting for your Christmas party! Whether you're planning an office gathering, a stylish client soirée, or an unforgettable end-of-year celebration, we are the venue for you.

Step inside and you’ll find a beautifully designed interior that’s both sleek and welcoming — the ideal setting for festive celebrations of all kinds. Our mezzanine level, complete with its own private bar, offers a stylish and elevated space perfect for drinks receptions, festive dinners, and end-of-year parties. For larger bookings or more intimate dining experiences, the Drawing Room and adjoining booths provide direct access to the terrace, and combine comfort with elegance — cosy, atmospheric, and perfectly suited to those looking to celebrate in style beneath the Gherkin’s iconic silhouette.

Whether you're raising a glass of rosé in the summer sun or sipping mulled wine beneath the Christmas lights, The Sterling delivers an unforgettable experience, all year round. With exquisite food and drink, unbeatable transport links, and a dedicated events team ready to bring your vision to life, this is the venue that does it all — and does it beautifully.

Open Monday to Friday, with exclusive private hire available any day of the week. Book now for those sun-drenched terrace gatherings… or get ahead of the rush and reserve your Christmas party date today.

What's on

Info

  • Taking Bookings
  • Dance floor
  • No Door Charge
  • None
  • Over 21

Hours

Day Open Close Notes
Monday 9:30 21:30
Tuesday 9:30 22:00
Wednesday 9:30 22:30
Thursday 9:30 22:30
Friday 9:30 21:30
Saturday 8:30 0:00 Private Hire Only.
Sunday 8:30 0:00 Private Hire Only.

Location

Address

The Sterling, The Gherkin, 30 St Marys Axe, EC3A 8BF

Area

Liverpool Street

Nearest Station

Liverpool Street (Tube)

Menus

  • Cuisines

    This venue serves British, Small Plates, Pub Food, Bar Snacks and Christmas Lunch/Dinner food.

  • A word from the chef:

    The Sterling Menu features ever-changing weekly specials built around simplicity and quality.

Private Hire

Name Type Capacity
Seated
Capacity
Standing
Cost Min spend
Midweek*
Min spend
Weekend*
Booths Area 60 80 - - -

Our stylish semi-private Booths area offers a warm, welcoming setting ideal for larger group dinners, festive celebrations, and lively receptions. With space for up to 60 guests seated or 80 standing, it’s the perfect choice for hosting everything from relaxed summer socials to unforgettable Christmas parties.

The space includes access to a charming semi-private terrace - perfect for enjoying drinks in the late summer sun, or stepping out into the crisp winter air with a festive cocktail in hand. As the season changes, the Booths take on a magical atmosphere, enhanced by twinkling lights and the glow of the Gherkin above - setting the scene for a truly memorable end-of-year event.

Equipped with a projector and easy access to the bar, the Booths are well-suited for team dinners, corporate presentations, private parties, or a full festive feast. Whether you're gathering colleagues for a Christmas lunch or planning a spirited evening celebration, this versatile space combines comfort, style, and atmosphere.

With flexible seating and a dedicated events team ready to bring your vision to life, the Booths at The Sterling are the perfect place to celebrate - whatever the occasion, and whatever the season.

Drawing Room 35 50 - - -

Tucked away for added privacy, our Drawing Room offers a warm, intimate setting that's perfect for smaller Christmas gatherings, festive dinners, or end-of-year catch-ups. With soft lighting, comfortable seating, and a welcoming glow, it’s the kind of space where guests instantly feel at home - especially when the mulled wine is flowing.

This semi-private room is ideal for seated festive meals, team toasts, or thoughtful seasonal celebrations. A built-in projector allows for personalised touches — from heartfelt speeches and holiday presentations to nostalgic photo slideshows.

Best of all, the Drawing Room comes with full exclusivity - no interruptions, just you and your guests enjoying a private celebration in one of the City’s most iconic venues.

Whether you're planning an intimate Christmas dinner, a close-knit team party, or a relaxed festive evening with friends, the Drawing Room offers a cosy, refined atmosphere perfect for the season.

Mezzanine 70 90 - - -

Perched above the main bar, our Mezzanine is a sought-after space during the festive season - offering a semi-private setting perfect for Christmas dinners, sparkling drinks receptions, and end-of-year celebrations. Elevated and elegant, this versatile space gives guests a unique vantage point, combining exclusivity with the lively buzz of the venue below.

Whether you're planning a festive networking event, a private Christmas party, or a seasonal client dinner, the Mezzanine delivers both style and flexibility. With the option to open a private bar just for your group, your guests can enjoy a dedicated area to toast the season in comfort — all while staying connected to the atmosphere of The Sterling.

Twinkling lights, warm service, and the glow of the Gherkin in the background set the perfect scene for a memorable occasion. From intimate festive gatherings to larger seated dinners, the Mezzanine is the ideal backdrop for celebrating in style.

Whole Venue 200 500 - - -

Nestled at the base of London’s iconic Gherkin, The Sterling offers a dynamic setting that evolves effortlessly with the seasons - from sun-drenched terrace drinks to festive feasts and everything in between.

As summer winds down, there’s no better spot to make the most of these golden afternoons than our expansive outdoor terrace - a City favourite for after-work cocktails, long lunches, and informal networking. Whether you're wrapping up summer socials or welcoming teams back to the office, The Sterling delivers an atmosphere that’s both relaxed and refined.

Inside, the venue is bright, stylish and spacious - perfect for large group dinners, client events, and private parties. With a variety of semi-private and exclusive spaces including our Mezzanine, Drawing Room, and Booths, we can host everything from working lunches and presentations to late-night celebrations.

And with autumn just around the corner, it's time to start thinking about the most magical time of year...

As Christmas approaches, The Sterling transforms into a festive favourite in the heart of the City. With twinkling lights, seasonal menus, private bars, and cosy corners to celebrate in style, it’s the perfect setting for everything from office Christmas parties and corporate drinks to intimate festive dinners. Whether you're planning a low-key lunch or a full-venue takeover, our events team is on hand to take care of every detail.

With excellent transport links, a well-stocked bar, and a reputation for stylish, seamless events, The Sterling is your go-to destination - from end-of-summer gatherings to unforgettable Christmas celebrations.

Terrace 200 500 - - -

Step out onto The Sterling’s expansive terrace - the largest summer outdoor space in the heart of the City of London. With breathtaking views of the iconic Gherkin, this sun-soaked oasis is the ultimate destination for corporate gatherings, lively parties, and relaxed after-work drinks.

Whether you’re hosting a casual team social, a large-scale corporate event, or a festive summer party, our terrace offers the perfect backdrop. The spacious layout provides plenty of room for mingling, networking, and celebration - all with the vibrant energy of the City buzzing just below.

With easy access to the bar and exquisite food and drink options, your guests can enjoy everything from refreshing cocktails and chilled wines to delicious bites under the open sky. As daylight lingers late into the evening, it’s the ideal spot to soak up summer vibes and make memories that last long after the sun sets.

Ready to impress clients, reward your team, or simply celebrate in style? The Sterling’s terrace is your premier choice for unforgettable summer events in London’s financial district.

Book now to secure your spot on the City’s biggest and best summer terrace - and let us help you create an event to remember.

* The minimum spends are a guideline only and vary according to the day and time of the year.

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Customer Reviews (371)

Our Review

The Sterling London - Lounge Bar Review

The Venue Located inside one of London’s most iconic buildings, The Sterling takes some beating when it comes to city settings. Taking up a portion of the bottom two floors of The Gherkin, this bar mixes city panache with a relaxed vibe. Step inside and you are greeted with a bright airy space…

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