Best Rooftop Bars in London

Located just around the corner from the oft-'grammed Tonight Josephine, Bar Elba is a tropical paradise inspired by the island that exiled dictator Napoleon used as a party palace back in the 1800s. Prepare for sunny colours and panoramic views while you sip on a choice of over 20 cocktails and boozy slushies. 

If it's stunning views of St Paul's, a tasty tapas menu and creative cocktail card that you're after, Madison is an absolute must. Whilst the terrace here isn't the most spacious in the capital, it's head and shoulders above the rest when it comes to the views on offer. Come by when the sun is setting for a cocktail or bite to eat and see for yourself.

Set high up above Leicester Square this stunning bar is the latest permanent drinking den from Bourne & Hollingsworth. Offering a brasserie-style menu of seasonal plates and the brand's signature cocktails, it's the perfect spot for some after-work drinks with gorgeous views of the city.

A favourite for hosting private parties and events, this boutique King's Cross venue even comes with a lovely rooftop bar. The Driver gives off the relaxed air of a gastro-pub and somewhere you can come for after-work drinks that's not going to be 10 deep at the bar. Head up to their rooftop and check out views across central London as you enjoy a bevvy or two.

Tucked away on top of the Courthouse Hotel, this beautiful rooftop bar boasts much more than a few fruity cocktails. Seasonal and fresh, the Upper 5th drinks selection keeps it simple, perfect for pairing with panoramic views over Shoreditch and some delicious grill plates.

Coq D'Argent serves up classic French fare in a truly striking setting. The terrace garden offers a perfect retreat from the frenetic outside world, with gorgeous views of London's skyscrapers and an impressive team of mixologists on hand to whip you up whatever takes your fancy.

Head upstairs to the elegant Capeesh Sky Bar for gorgeous food and even more gorgeous drinks. Not only are their hand-blended cocktails created from high-end liquors, but their tasty selection of pizzas make the perfect pairing, particularly when you throw in a window seat and panoramic views of East London.

One of the best rooftop bars in South London, the Midnight Apothecary is an open-air drinking den found atop the Brunel Museum. Head down to the riverside haunt for the chance to sip on some of the most incredible cocktails around, made with homegrown herbs and foraged ingredients.

Okay so it's more a rooftop terrace than a rooftop bar, but we still felt The Windmill was worthy of a slot on the list. You'll find this hidden oasis of calm above the cosy vibes of the pub downstairs, where mouth-watering pies and an exceptional selection of cask ales are on offer.

An ever so swish private members club in the heart of Moorgate, Eight is a rooftop bar in London with finesse and charm to its name. From high-end bottles of the good stuff to renowned evenings and charming city views, this secret haunt is a smasher in the summer. 

A traditional British boozer in the heart of Kentish Town, The Abbey Tavern is abuzz with sports fans and day-drinkers come the summer months. Their huge roof terraces comes complete with a fully-stocked bar and a menu of juicy burgers - making it the perfect place to set yourself up on a summer's day.

When it comes to rooftop bars, there's few more cosy than Vagabond on Northcote Road. Not only is there a mouthwatering menu of tapas-style dishes, but there's also a huge wine list, as well as super cute lighting and intimate seating areas.

An outdoor bar that knows a thing or two about dreamy interiors, Radio Rooftop transforms seasonally to suit a new and unique theme. From a hacienda to an English summer garden, this spot above The Strand is must-visit for those looking for a little escapism.

Skylark Roof Garden is one of London's most exciting new rooftop bars, providing unparalleled views of Notting Hill and beyond from the banks of Little Venice. To top it off, the bar provides frozen cocktails, hand-crafted creations and a succinct menu of fine wines and exquisite eats. 

Head to Canary Wharf where you'll find some of the finest street food in the city. Giant Robot boasts four pop up restaurants, three bars and a stunning amount of space, perfect for fulfilling any occasion. Head out on to their terrace for waterside views and the ultimate post-work sipping spot.

The slinkier option when it comes to sky-high drinks in London, The Rooftop St James is a premium destination for global wines and a view of some of the city's biggest landmarks. It's also fully heated and home to an array of gorgeous, hand-crafted cocktails.

One of London's wildest events companies is celebrating its 10th birthday in its usually outrageous style. Sure, you have to wait until 2021, but your patience will be rewarded with a secret rooftop location, performers and incredible music.

Summers wouldn't be the same in South London without sunny days spent on Prince of Wales' Brixton rooftop. And this year, the gang are delivering with Spaced Out, a series of dinners and brunches, all keeping to social distancing guidelines, along with special guests that include Norman Jay MBE.

If the sun's out and you live in Angel, you'll want to hot-foot it round to The Castle while the best seats on their roof terrace are still available. Found at the top of Pentonville Road, this is one of the finest outdoor drinking spots in all of North London, where guests top up their tans while nursing real ales and great wines.

Located in the heart of Camden and overlooking the iconic Stables Market, FEST is a non-stop venue filled to the rafters come day and night. Adorned with gorgeous flowers and colourful furnishings, it's the perfect place to indulge in a cocktail before exploring the best of what this vibrant neighbourhood has to offer.

One of the most popular rooftop bars in East London, you'll find the terrace at Queen of Hoxton changing with the seasons. They've done Las Vegas, Bedouin settlements and currently they're all about The Wizard of Oz, with storytelling, witchcraft lessons and craft classes.

For sleek interiors, a spacious roof terrace, incredible cocktails and brilliant views, look no further than Aviary in Finsbury Square. Located on the tenth floor of the Montcalm hotel, the venue has been carefully designed to take in as much of the city as possible; there's also an inside seating area where you can tuck into some delicious seasonal fare.

Found in a darling Georgian townhouse in the heart of Farringdon, those looking to soak up some sunshine in a laid-back setting need look no further than this neat little treat. A place bustling with botanicals found atop Bird of Smithfield, this petite rooftop bar is a meandering of cocktails and faux-grass alike.

With a stunning alfresco space in the heart of King's Cross, Big Chill makes for a perfect pick for everything from after-work drinks to weekend brunching. You'll find craft beers, tasty food and, of course, a stunning rooftop space, as well as DJs through the weekend.

Offering some of the most stunning views over the Albert Embankment, this gorgeous rooftop restaurant is must-visit if you're looking to impress. Offering two distinct menus of Japanese and Lebanese eats, it's also got a little something for every palate.

In the heart of Aldgate, this rooftop bar is as pretty as a picture both inside and out. Jin Bo Law has views over the iconic London skyline from the roof terrace, while inside, interiors are bright and fun, with Asian-inspired art and a fruity cocktail menu.

Formerly The Terrace, this gorgeous rooftop number offers views over Wimbledon alongside delicious cocktails and tasty food for any occasion. And when you're not getting your sip on al fresco, you can be dancing it up in their spacious interiors to some of the best DJs in West London.

We know, we know, NT's in Dalston isn't strictly a rooftop bar, but it's close enough. Beaming with exotic plants, creative cocktails, excellent DJs and live music every Wednesday to Sunday, this outside terrace is more than worthy of a place on this list.

When it comes to rooftop bars in London, Vintry & Mercer is bringing you sky-high drinking and dining in the form of Mercer Roof Terrace. Expect stunning views and a menu of modern British dishes washed down with classic cocktails.

Flight Club landed in Victoria to applause thanks to more oches and creative darts games than ever before as well as a shiny new outdoor Magic Garden. Decked out in festoon lighting and kitsch bits, it's the perfect spot for a rooftop bev once you're done slaying each other on the board.

Boasting cosy igloos and a full-sized ice-skating rink in the winter months, and bottomless brunch with outdoor games of croquet in the summer, Skylight in Tobacco Dock is a must-visit for any alfresco-loving Londoner. 

Located just a short stroll away from Clapham Common, No 32 The Old Town is an uber-chic brunch spot and late-night bar. Boasting a fairy-light adorned terrace with heaters and cosy blankets, it's the perfect place to unwind with a glass of wine in hand. 

With three floors of gorgeous views to take in, you'll be spoilt for choice with Sky Garden's collection of great bars. From their in-house restaurant where you can dine with a backdrop of London's skyline, to its chic Sky Pods and pretty garden bar, it's perfect for any occasion.

An urban outdoor oasis with stunning views of London's skylines, the lush greenery and deckchairs of Dalston Roof Park creates a chilled and friendly atmosphere ideal for whiling away a warm, summer evening. But it's once the sun goes down and the DJs come out that this place really comes to life.

The Culpeper may be infamous for its pub and hotel alike, but it's the rooftop bar that has got us talking. From rustic greenhouses to growing their own herbs, this bar doesn't just have foliage, it has views unlike anywhere else.

It's one of the most talked about rooftop bars in South London and for good reason. A summer pop-up with some seriously sweet views of the city, Frank's Cafe is an indie favourite awash with punters once the sun comes both up and down. 

When it comes to rooftop bars in London, there's none quite as sexy as Sushi Samba. Found atop the Heron Tower in the heart of the City, guests can gorge on luxury cocktails, bottles of champagne and world-class sushi in this sky-high setting.

Part of the swish Hoxton Hotel in Southwark, Seabird is a luxury Basque-inspired seafood restaurant and cocktail bar. Located 14 floors above London, the cosy outdoor terrace here boasts views across the River Thames, and comes complete with comfy sofas and exotic palm trees.

12th knot is the rooftop bar situated (you guessed it) on the 12th-floor on Sea Containers. A luxe spot perfect for fancy date-nights and all-out occasions, this place has an impressive Champagne list and a packed-out calendar of live music events. 

Shoreditch House is a dynamic private members' club which comes complete with a 16 metre heated swimming pool, bar, kitchen and lounge. It's a popular choice for anybody looking to work, socialise and relax in chilled surroundings and can be found just minutes away from Old Street station. 

Sip a tasty cocktail and take in the stunning views of East London whilst sat in the pretty exterior terrace of this high end Shoreditch rooftop bar. Boundary offers more than just style though, with a menu of delicious food and hand-crafted cocktails showing that its got the substance to match.

Cool Soho members club Century is hosting a hot summer bash on its rooftop space this August. Head up to the sunny space for a day of tunes from the White Isle, along with brunch dishes and cocktails.