London’s skyline is one of the most recognisable in the world and whilst the city is always best explored on foot, there's something undeniably special about seeing it from above. From sun-drenched terraces to relax on a summer afternoon to glamorous spots to spend an evening with friends, London’s rooftop bars offer some of the best views and venues in the capital.
Here’s a guide to a few standout rooftop bars across the city, each offering a different flavour of London from above.
Wagtail Rooftop Bar & Restaurant
Perched on top of a 1920s building, Wagtail boasts 360-degree views of The Shard and Tower Bridge. Spread over two floors, it features a rooftop bar, two private terraces and a restaurant, which makes it a strong contender for one of the city's most sophisticated rooftops.
At Wagtail, guests can find a range of inventive cocktails, a curated wine list and a menu that leans towards upscale British comfort food. For something more exclusive, the historic cupola makes a remarkable private dining spot.
Florattica Rooftop Bar
Located in Aldgate, Florattica draws inspiration from East London's heritage, particularly the 17th-century Huguenot silk weavers. The award-winning rooftop bar is situated 11 floors above the city and features floral-themed decor that perfectly complements its botanical cocktail menu. It won the Hotel Bar Interior Award at the International Property Awards in October 2023.
Aqua Spirit
Situated above Regent Street, Aqua Spirit is a modern, partially covered venue offering views over Oxford Street and the West End. Part of the Aqua Kyoto restaurant, this rooftop bar is known for its Japanese-inspired cocktails, mixologists and stylish, sultry interiors. Weekends at Aqua Spirit are lively, especially if you book the unlimited sushi brunch, offering sharing platters, free-flowing drinks and a live DJ as the afternoon turns into evening.
The Standard
Set within the former Camden Town Hall Annex, The Standard London marks the brand’s UK debut. The rooftop is located on the 11th floor and boasts wide-open views of the London skyline, with the St. Pancras Clock Tower just across the way.
The venue serves a menu of well-executed cocktails, sparkling wine on tap and street food, which is a nod to the brand’s New York roots. The mood is slightly laid-back, with a considered soundtrack and a design-led aesthetic that feels distinctly at home in London.
The Rooftop at The Trafalgar St. James
Overlooking Trafalgar Square, The Rooftop at The Trafalgar St. James boasts panoramic views of central London. Guests can indulge in expertly crafted cocktails and European-inspired small plates, all while taking in sights of Nelson's Column and the London Eye. All-day dining is also available in the glass-enclosed rooftop venue called ROOM, a canopy-covered space that’s ideal for intimate weddings and formal dinners.
The Berkeley Rooftop Bar
This summer, The Berkeley Rooftop Bar brings a slice of the Italian Riviera to the heart of Knightsbridge with Capri in the City – a sun-drenched escape high above the streets of London. Set beside the hotel’s swimming pool, the leafy terrace is due to be open to non-residents during the summer months.
Set beside the hotel’s swimming pool and tucked beneath a canopy of lemon trees, the terrace offers skyline views and a menu that features Capri-inspired cocktails and Italian sharing plates. A rooftop that feels like summer in southern Italy, without ever leaving the city.
Alto by San Carlo
Hidden above the buzz of Oxford Street, Alto by San Carlo is a rooftop venue that feels like an escape to the Amalfi Coast in the middle of London. Tucked away on top of Selfridges, the bar features a fully retractable roof and beautifully landscaped terrace, with the main restaurant and bar open all year round, so guests can dine come rain or shine, seven days a week.
Food, cocktails and fizz flow generously in an al fresco setting, surrounded by a canopy of beautiful florals, reminiscent of an Italian garden. The menu leans into classic Italian comfort food, featuring fresh seafood, pasta and arguably one of the best tiramisus found in London.
Aviary
High above Finsbury Square, Aviary sits on top of the Montcalm Royal London House, offering a rooftop escape with sweeping views of the city skyline. The space combines a sleek indoor restaurant with a spacious outdoor terrace bar, making it a go-to spot whatever the weather. The menu focuses on contemporary British dishes, served alongside a strong line-up of signature and classic cocktails, premium spirits and an indulgent selection of wines and champagne.
1 Leicester Square
Set above one of London’s most iconic addresses, 1 Leicester Square Rooftop Bar & Restaurant brings a touch of 1920s glamour to the heart of the West End. With views stretching across the London skyline and overlooking the buzz of Leicester Square below, it’s a spot that works from day to night. The menu blends vibrant flavours with fresh ingredients and nods to classic recipes, while the bar pours everything from signature and classic cocktails to champagne, wine and beers.
8 at The Londoner
Set on the 8th floor of The Londoner in Leicester Square, this is a sleek and sophisticated izakaya-style rooftop bar with elevated views over Leicester Square. 8 at The Londoner features a minimalist Japanese design, ideal for those evenings that call for something a little special. The menu features standout dishes like Gyoza Tacos, Lobster Tempura and plates from the Robata grill, paired with innovative signature cocktails and a strong line-up of Japanese spirits. It’s a must-try for drinks, bold flavours and a touch of rooftop glamour in the heart of the city.
Radio Rooftop
Set atop ME London by Melia, Radio Rooftop serves a sleek and elevated setting with some of the most impressive panoramic views in the city, spanning from Big Ben and Tower Bridge to The Shard, St. Paul’s and beyond. The menu leans into modern Asian sharing plates, matched with expertly crafted cocktails mixed in-house, making it a must-try for golden-hour champagne or late-night cocktails.
From poolside terraces to skyline hideaways, these rooftops capture London at its very best, with each venue offering a different way to see and savour the city from above.
