23 best rooftop restaurants and outdoor bars in London
Summer may be over, but that doesn't mean that London's best rooftop bars and outdoor spaces shut up shop. On the contrary, catching an autumnal sunset over the city's skyline while sipping on spicy margs can rival even the sunniest of rosé-drenched summer days.
So, whether you're heading to the rooftops for a boozy brunch, a romantic dinner with a view or some too-pretty-to-drink cocktails (but you definitely will), it's time to rally the troops and get booking. A word of advice: keep this page bookmarked because you just know you're going to keep coming back and working your way through the list. It would be rude not to.
Enjoy!
KASO Rooftop Bar & KitchenWhere: Shoreditch
Why we love it: Perched on top of One Hundred Shoreditch – an independent hotel in the heart of the capital's buzzy creative hub – Kaso might just be London's coolest rooftop bar. Sip alfresco drinks on the sun-dappled, wrap-around terrace, or when the autumnal British weather comes to play, take cover inside (where you can still take in the picture-perfect views) and enjoy the relaxed rhythm of the Mediterranean and Aegean regions. Sip on ‘margarissas’ (a blend of Patrón with pomegranate harissa) while tucking into dishes inspired by chef Ilknur Celik's Turkish roots, from muhammara & flatbread to juicy lamb fritters and chicken shish.
DJs play every Friday and Saturday night until midnight. Expect an ever-changing line-up of exciting musical artists spinning a range of genres and fresh remixes.
Where: Soho
Why we love it: Spanish tapas in a cosy, chic bar or up on the roof overlooking the city. What's not to love? At Aqua Nueva, you'll be greeted by an extensive menu of Spanish tapas along with a few set menus if you simply can't decide. They also offer a range of delicious, photogenic cocktails and a great wine list. And did we mention the views? From the tip-top of Oxford Circus, you'll get stunning viewpoints of Soho and some iconic London landmarks. Plus, their collaboration with St‑Germain brings a touch of floral elegance, think elderflower-infused Saint 75s and Palomas, elevating every glass with a modern and delicious twist.
Michael FrankeWhere: Tower Hill
Why we love it: Savage Garden has got to be one of the best rooftop restaurants for skyline views in the city, showcasing iconic landmarks like The Shard, Tower Bridge, St Paul’s Cathedral and many other skyscrapers. It has a gorgeous balcony overlooking the city, perfect to soak-up the sunset vibes whether it’s June or Jan. We are absolutely obsessed with the pancetta mac and cheese bonbons, seriously, you will order at least three rounds. As the rooftop overlooks the Tower of London, many of their cocktails have royal themes like the deliciously spicy Raging Tudor.
James BrownWhere: Tottenham Court Road
Why we love it: Situated on the roof of the fairly new and trending Outernet London at Tottenham Court Road is the brilliantly contemporary Chinese rooftop restaurant Tattu. It has a traditional Chinese courtyard, a gorgeous terrace bar that is at its peak during golden hour and breathtaking 360 views over London. In the winter, the terrace is a cosy escape from the cold with heaters and plush faux furs. In the Summer, dine al fresco in the sunshine with the most flavoursome contemporary dim sum and unique custom cocktails from Tattu’s Phoenix Bar. Our favourite? Mongolian Mock Beef from the wok paired with the Meridian cocktail made with 818 tequila, dreamy.
Where: Shoreditch
Why we love it: A buzzy addition to the beloved Nobu Hotel, the Nobu Shoreditch Bar & Terrace is an achingly cool bar with an alfresco sunken garden terrace for when the sunshine beckons. The walls are lined with intricate Japanese artworks and the scattered array of plants turn this concrete jungle into a verdant oasis. Sip expertly-crafted cocktails (don't miss the ‘stingless bee margarita’ with tequila, honey liquor, peach, coconut and Mediterranean citrus), while snacking on Nobu's adored-around-the-world signature dishes (hello, yellowtail jalapeño sashimi and creamy crab sushi rolls) and trying new creations (we loved the tuna monaka, like a delicate sandwich made from light, slightly-sweet rice crispbread). There's live music every Wednesday-Saturday evening, and a Saturday brunch from 1-4pm, too.
Where: Camden
Why we love it: Fusing the cosy buzz of a traditional British pub with chill canal side vibes, Camden’s hidden gem The Constitution is back in time for summer with a new extended rooftop terrace and sun trap beer garden. With a delicious menu featuring delights such as lamb belly croquettes as well as classic favourites like fish and chips, The Constitution makes for an easy post-work go-to with breezy outdoor spaces perfect for the warmer months, and friendly service to boot.
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Where: Southwark
Why we love it: Two things that go hand-in-hand is Summer and seafood. Whether you're wanting a formal dinner, a light afternoon bite, some cocktails in the sun, or a vibey Sunday brunch - Seabird has you covered. The concept of the decor is coastal inspired, from it's scaled dining tables to it's scalloped seating, raw bar and rattan furniture, this place is a dream if you've got a penchant for interior design. The views from this place are incredible.
CYNTHIA REZENDEWhere: Covent Garden
Why we love it: What's better than a pub in summer? A pub that also has a rooftop terrace. The perfect place to head for post-work drinks or a pre-theatre dinner, Marquess of Anglesey has reopened just in time for the warmer months with a new rooftop bar featuring a retractable roof that means revellers can enjoy the setting come rain or shine. Offering up quintessential British pub classics done well, from their signature Sunday roasts to elevated dishes such as Devon crab and avocado toast, this is a Covent Garden pub at its finest.
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Where: Selfridges, Oxford Street
Why we love it: Alto by San Carlo is a lively Italian restaurant conveniently located just a lift up from Selfridges. Serving perfectly crisped arancini, generous piles of pasta and everything in between, Alto makes for the ultimate summer rooftop spot to refuel during a busy day of shopping or for a post-work tipple. Though you’ll no doubt be advised on it anyway by one of the friendly servers, ensure you make the gamberoni fritti (tempura prawns) one of your starters and our personal favourite, the lobster taglioni, one of your mains.
Where: Hoxton
Why we love it: An east London go-to in the summer, Queen of Hoxton summer rooftop theme this year is ‘Little Barcelona’ – expect pints of Estrella, Spanish-themed food (including prime beef and chorizo burger, lemon and herb grilled chicken breast fillet and vegetable and three croquettes) and cocktails like ‘Love At First Bite’ (a mix of Sunbird wine with Absolut vodka and apple brandy Avellen Calvados alongside lemon, soda and sugar) and watermelon margaritas. See you there!
Where: Finsbury Park
Why we love it: Common Ground has become a firm daytime favourite for locals in North London. So much so that people even queue for hours in the pouring rain to get a seat in this modest little cafe. This Spring, Common Ground launched their evening concept, where a brand-new menu will be served from their beautiful garden restaurant. Choose one of the delicious cocktails or low intervention wines while you relax in the stunning plant-filled space in the heart of North London. Food-wise, the new evening menu includes delicious globally inspired, plant-based and vegetarian small and large plate.
thestandardlondon / InstagramThe Rooftop at The Standard, London
Where: King's Cross
Why we love it: Want a slice of the Big Apple from the comfort of London? The Rooftop at The Standard is where you want to be. Located on the sprawling 11th floor of the hotel, you can opt to indulge in items such as hot dogs while looking famous St. Pancras Clock Tower.
Where: Mayfair
Why we love it: Want a venue with some old-school glamour? The Maine Mayfair is where you want to head to! You'll feel like you've stepped back in time at this historical townhouse that has been preserved to uphold its classic British style and decadence. If you can handle your spice, they have a whole section of Bloody Marys! From a Bloody Classic to a Bloody Maria, are you brave enough to try them all? To avoid being disappointed, make sure to book in advance!
Where: Marylebone
Why we love it: Want panoramic 360-degree views of the London skyline? This is where you need to be! Of course, the room is filled with foliage and gives off the vibe of being high up in a treehouse. We'd be hard-pressed to choose just one drink from their playful cocktail menu. From a "Royal Kiss" to a "Bees Without Knees", we must try it all!
Where: St Paul's
Why we love it: Go for spectacular views of St Paul's cathedral, stay for the laidback vibe and botanical interiors (yep, your Insta game is going to be strong). Sabine will offer two outside terraces, one with a retractable roof for all weather drinking and dining. Tuck into seasonal sharing plates and booze that all of your 'rule of six' are guaranteed to love: seasonal cocktails, local gins, and a wide variety of rosé wines and champagnes.
Where: St Paul's
Why we love it: One of the chicest and happiest watering-grounds in London. Madison London has stunning panoramic views of St Paul’s Cathedral. Once you step out of the outdoor glass elevator you’ll be hit with a wave of summer beats enticing you to stay long past sunset.
PocketSquare Skyline Bar & Terrace
Where: East London
Why we love it: Perched on the 9th floor of the Hyatt Place London City East Hotel with amazing views of the London skyline you'll find PocketSquare. Their new cocktail menu pays homage to eight east London markets; from the historical Roman Road and Old Spitalfields to the food lovers’ havens of Broadway and Whitechapel. To go with your cocktails PocketSquare’s Sicilian aperitivo menu offers authentic Sicilian bar snacks including Arancini di Riso, Polpette, Fritto Misto, an aperitivo sharing board and a selection of flatbreads; all perfect for enjoying alongside cocktails.
Where: Fitzrovia
Why we love it: The hidden rooftop oasis at the Mandrake Hotel. The terrace, al-fresco dining menu and cocktails are all Inspired by the amazon. It’s a tranquil and tropical little retreat if you just need some downtime in an inner city sanctuary. it has actually won an award for ‘Best Outdoor Space’. There is loads of trendy rattan style furniture, cushions and greenery everywhere that makes the perfect backdrop for an insta-worthy selfie.
magnustakespictures.comWhere: Stratford
Why we love it: Based in the heart of East London within The Gantry hotel you’ll find the world famous American steakhouse STK. The restaurant has jaw-dropping rooftop views of the industrial and leisure hub of Stratford, so whether you’re dining at lunch or in the evening, the views and the vibes are to die for. They are open from Sunday to Thursday (4pm until midnight) and then Friday & Saturday until 1am featuring lively music from renowned DJs. STK is famous for its Sunday roast and weekend brunch for just £49 per person. One of our favourite dishes has to be the wagyu beef tacos, they’re dripping with caramelised onions, yuzu kosho and sour cream, we’re drooling thinking about it.
Where: Aldgate
Why we love it: When you say ‘party’, we say ‘Jin Bo Law’. The rooftop party bar is one of the most Instagrammable watering holes in the city with 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. The drinks are pricey but delicious, so we'd recommend saving up and then going all out.
Where: The City
Why we love it: Aviary is one of the swankiest rooftop destinations the city has to offer. Perched on top of The Montcalm Royal London House Hotel in Finsbury Square, the terrace menus offers a wide range of small plates, larger plates, salads and desserts, including ice creams and sorbets to tuck into alongside a glass of bubbly in the summer. Drinks-wise, Aviary know how to do wine, and there are plenty of very reasonably-priced bottles on the menu, too. The cocktails here are also out of this world. From contemporary creations – don't miss the 'bumblebee' with Reyka vodka, Kamm&Sons, lemon, apple juice, pollen syrup – to perfectly-done classics (we know a good martini when we sip one).
Where: Wimbledon
Why we love it: This gorgeous rooftop number is as close to a vineyard as you're going to get on top of a building in London and offers views over Wimbledon. Plus, when you're not getting your sip on al fresco or tucking into a bottomless brunch of free-flowing Prosecco, Mimosas, Mojitos or soft drinks, you can be dancing it up in their spacious interiors to some of the best DJs in West London.
Where: Angel
Why we love it: Is this California or Islington? Who cares, with these beachy, pastel vibes, it doesn't matter where we are, just get us a cocktail and a big bowl of some typical Miami grub (AKA healthy but hugely Instagrammable). Nestle in among the mint-coloured chairs and trees and settle down for the long-haul, with blankets available incase the clouds suddenly come out.
