Despite offering copious establishments that are the delight of the West London dinner and drinks crowd, Chelsea might, on the surface at least, appear to be a bit light on offering an elevated view to take in the glamour of West London. This is, of course, intentional, as for one of the most glamorous corners of London, the last thing its affluent residents wish for is the same level of crowds that queue for hours to access expansive terrace bars as is the case in the city centre.
Instead of shouting quite literally from the rooftops about where to go for lofty libations, Chelsea likes to keep its most desirable terraces and accompanying bars more securely under wraps. The following selections are all fine examples of Chelsea’s reputation for glamour and grandeur, which happily slip under the radar and preserve the area’s reputation as a refined neighbourhood for those with more subtle tastes.
No. Fifty Cheyne
Just a short stroll from the banks of the River Thames, No. Fifty Cheyne is best known for its grand interiors and riverside dining, but perched above the glittering chandeliers, the rooftop terrace provides a more relaxed setting. Whilst limited in terms of seating, the ivy-clad trellises and pastel-cushioned benches lend the space a secret garden-esque appeal, with views that stretch across Battersea Bridge.
The bar is suitably creative, catering to the environment with a rooftop cocktail list that perfectly complements long summer evenings. Of particular note is the Champagne mojito, a lighter twist on the classic Cuban staple, while the rhubarb and rose gin fizz breathes notes of an English summer garden that matches perfectly with the terrace’s vibe. Guests can also order dishes from the downstairs menu, including burrata with heritage tomatoes and whole grilled langoustines. Booking in advance is wise as rooftop tables are always in high demand.
The Botanist Sloane Square
Perched above the buzz of Sloane Square, The Botanist’s upper terrace features glass balustrades and a canopy of greenery that provides a casual, but unmistakably Chelsea-centric setting. Whilst by no means exclusive, for those wanting to enjoy an evening aperitif with a bit more life and energy, The Botanist remains a popular fixture with the after-work crowd and for weekend brunchers.
As the name may imply, the drinks menu takes on a botanical theme, including herbaceous gin spritzes, lychee tonics and a standout rosemary and grapefruit highball. Wine lovers will also appreciate the tightly curated list of Provençal and Italian rosés with their floral notes bringing some breath and variety to the menu. While the space doesn’t command vast skyline views, from its perch above one of Chelsea’s most popular quarters, The Botanist more than delivers as an entertaining spot for drinks al fresco.
Beaufort House
Directly opposite the delectable courtyard terrace of Bluebird restaurant, Beaufort House’s third-floor champagne lounge opens out onto a private roof deck that’s only accessible to members and for private hire. Offering guests a splendid view of both the area and the charming garden terrace of its neighbour across the street, an evening of drinks at Beaufort House is a lavish affair that’s perfectly in keeping with Chelsea’s polished aesthetics.
The champagne bar offers a selection which is focused on the finest of premium pours, from Perrier-Jouët and Ruinart to Dom Pérignon, alongside champagne cocktails and highball classics. The venue itself is magnificent, a menagerie of low-slung seats adorned with navy cushions, potted palms and ambient golden lighting after dark. It’s one of the few rooftops in Chelsea where the transition from day to night is palpable, whilst the exclusive nature of the setting anchors it as a converted evening destination for Chelsea’s nightlife.
The Sloane Club
Tucked away discreetly along Lower Sloane Street, The Sloane Club’s reputation as Chelsea’s go-to social hub is cemented by its quiet rooftop terrace that offers a sublime setting for afternoon and evening drinks. Surrounded by flowering planters and wrought iron balustrades, the rooftop feels more like a private garden than a traditional members' club bar. During the warmest months of the year, it becomes a delightful sun trap, allowing members to escape the busy streets of Sloane and enjoy the quiet peace of a bottle of Provence rosé with fellow patrons.
The bar menu leans towards classic cocktails made from seasonal formulas. From elderflower-laced Collins to smoky Mezcal Paloma garnished with dried grapefruit, the house negroni, aged in a barrel for a week and served over a hand-cut ice cube, has earned cult status among the regulars. Non-members can access the terrace when booking for private events, though it remains one of Chelsea’s most intimate rooftops, which is a blissful haven for those who are privileged to call themselves members at the Sloane.
The Chelsea Harbour Hotel
Whilst not a rooftop bar, the terrace at Chelsea Harbour Hotel boasts relaxing views of the harbourside and waterfront at Imperial Wharf, offering a nice alternative to drinks with a view for Chelsea residents to enjoy. It’s a world away from the traffic of the King’s Road, and on a glorious summer’s day, the views of boats gently bobbing in the water are quite transfixing.
The drinks menu is tailored for languid afternoons and elegant early evenings. Signature pours include a rose and pomegranate spritz and a delicate elderflower and mint gin cocktail, which pairs perfectly with many of the terrace’s seafood small plates. Guests will be treated to Devon crab toast, smoked salmon blinis and crispy calamari to nibble on throughout their visit. Although the space is open to the public, it's remarkably low-key and remains one of the area’s best-kept secrets for sunset drinks by the water.
