Sound the klaxon – warmer days are approaching. And nowhere beats London in the sun. Picture the scene – a warm sunset takes over the clear blue sky while you sip on zingy gin and tonics with your pals, overlooking the iconic London skyline. Luckily, the buzzing capital is full of beautiful rooftop bars to take advantage of. From swanky sky bars to hip hidden gems, here are seven of the best rooftop bars in London.
1. Jin Bo Law
We’re kicking things off with a crowd favourite. Jin Bo Law is one of the most popular rooftop bars in the city and for good reason. Sitting pretty on the 14th floor of the Dorsett City Hotel, patrons are treated to sweeping views of the Shard, the Gherkin, Tower Bridge, the Walkie Talkie, and more. It’s not just the views that are spectacular – the impressive bar area with gold mirrors and dark marble. But let’s get to the important bit – the drinks. While the Asian-inspired bar serves up all the favourites, you’ll also find creative twists on those classics. Take Dragon Air, for example – a twist on a white Negroni, replacing gin for an Asian spirit known as Baijiu.
2. Sushi Samba
Considering it has one of the world’s most iconic city skylines, London is relatively low-built. However, it is home to Europe’s highest rooftop bar. Soaring above London on the 38th floor, Sushi Samba undoubtedly has one of the best rooftop bars in London. Soak in the panoramic views across the city, while sipping on a carefully curated menu of cocktails, Japanese beers, and sake. It is a pricey spot, but an excellent setting for a ‘special occasion’ kind of night. And when the views are this good (perhaps even the best in the city) the prices are expected to come at a premium.
3. Netil 360
Take in 360 views (hence the name) of Shoreditch from this popular East London rooftop bar. Hackney maintains its reputation as one of the city’s coolest areas with Netil 360 – you’ll find a young, buzzing crowd sat around low tables sharing bottles of wine or pints of craft beer. It’s not a swanky rooftop bar but it’s all the more popular for it – think laidback atmosphere with excellent views to boot. There’s also a workspace, café, and gallery here – what better way to round off a day in the workspace than a summery drink with a view?
4. Dalston Roof Park
While it doesn’t have the best views of all the rooftop bars in London, Dalston Roof Park is a vibrant and creative space that perfectly encompasses this cool corner of London. Starting out life as a pop-up cocktail bar and developing into a beloved event space, Dalston Roof Park has all the ingredients for a hip spot. Tuck into street food served up by pop-up traders, sip on summery cocktails, and dance along to the DJ’s live set.
5. Radio Rooftop
Radio Rooftop is one of London’s most iconic rooftop bars. Many of the city’s most important sights are in full view from here, sitting on the roof of the ME Hotel. While the views are the main draw here, you’ll also find delicious small plates, live DJs, and an excellent menu of drinks. It’s the picture of laid-back luxury, with a buzzy atmosphere in the evenings. You can also indulge in a rooftop brunch on the weekends.
6. Roof East
Roof East is a favourite among locals for good reason. The rooftop bar sits atop a car park and has a great vibe, plenty of street food vendors, a cute setting of colourful bunting and beach chairs, and an incredible view. Pay it a visit and discover why it’s called an adult’s playground – play lawn games like mini golf, catch a film in the outdoor cinema, try your hand at the batting cages, and play a few rounds of Jenga. It’s set to reopen soon for Spring – we’re excited to see where Roof East goes next!
7. Frank’s Café
Take in 360 views of Peckham and beyond from Frank’s Cafe – a relaxed rooftop spot on a multi-storey car park. It’s a simple site, but it’s the views that do the talking here. Find a wide range of drinks at decent prices, as well as breakfast, lunch, and dinner menus. It’s only open during the summer months, so make sure you get all the use you can out of this gorgeous bar.
