London is famous for many things, but London rooftop bars might just top them all. Have you ever sipped your favorite cocktail overlooking iconic landmarks like Tower Bridge or St. Paul’s Cathedral? If not, you’re missing out! Rooftop bars in London offer a magical combination of stunning views, delicious drinks, and fantastic vibes. Whether you’re planning a romantic date, a fun night out with friends, or even a memorable solo experience, these sky high venues have something special for everyone. But with so many options available, which rooftop spots truly stand out? Let’s discover London’s best rooftop bars together, where the drinks are cool, the views are breathtaking, and the atmosphere is always buzzing.
Key Takeaways
- London is known for its mesmerizing skyline and its vibrant rooftop bars.
- Some of London’s best rooftop bars include London Bridge Rooftop, Skypod Bar, The Rooftop, Florattica, 12th Knot, Madison Rooftop, and Jin Bo Law Skybar.
- Signature cocktails blend in Londoners’ favorite alcohols with fruity flavors, and a hint of each bar’s charm.
- Learn about dress codes, booking tips, and when to arrive to secure the best seats for an unforgettable evening on top of London.
Best Rooftop Bars in London
London Bridge Rooftop Bar
- Location: Colechurch House, Bridge Walk, London SE1 2SX
- Official Website: London Bridge Rooftop
- Menu: Drinks Menu
- Floor: 6th floor (about 20 meters high)
Just a quick walk from London Bridge station, London Bridge Rooftop Bar is perfect for anyone seeking lively, casual vibes. On arrival, breathtaking views of The Shard and Tower Bridge will welcome you. This spot is energetic, relaxed, and ideal for gatherings, featuring DJs playing upbeat tunes nightly. You can enjoy their bottomless brunch, interactive darts, and spritz Sundays during the day as well.
Their specialty cocktails, particularly the refreshing Gin Spritz, complement their tasty street food menu. Reservations are recommended on both weekdays and weekends, and entry is free, though special events or group bookings may have fees. You can dress comfortably, but aim for smart casual attire if you’d like to fit in with the crowd!
Sky Pod Bar at Sky Garden
- Location: 1 Sky Garden Walk, London EC3M 8AF
- Official Website: Sky Pod Bar
- Menu: Bar Menu
- Floor: 35th floor (155 meters high)
Sky Pod Bar provides unmatched panoramic views of London’s skyline, showcasing landmarks like the Tower of London and the River Thames. Accessed via Monument Station, the bar offers a classy yet relaxed environment amid lush greenery. The glass windows and ceiling frames capture an unobstructed view of the city, and the best time to enjoy it is during sunset.
Their signature Sky Garden Spritz is perfect for sipping during sunset. Sky Garden entry is free, but booking your spot ahead is required. We recommend dressing according to the weather, as it is a naturally ventilated space. They do not have an official dress code, but it is good to note that, as it transforms into a live music venue at night, dressing smart casual would let you blend into the atmosphere of the rooftop bar easily.
The Rooftop at Trafalgar St. James
- Location: 2 Spring Gardens, Trafalgar Square, London SW1A 2TS
- Official Website: The Rooftop
- Menu: Drinks & Food
- Floor: 7th floor (about 25 meters high)
Located at Trafalgar Square, this bar provides spectacular views of the London Eye and Nelson’s Column. Its stylish atmosphere suits romantic evenings or elegant gatherings. Service here is attentive and professional yet friendly. This rooftop bar is especially known for corporate events, so if you are planning on booking a venue to impress your clients or colleagues, this is the perfect spot!
Their creatively mixed cocktails, like Trafalgar Twist, are loved by visitors. Guests can also order from an extensive list of delicious food choices, which may not be offered in other bars. Reservations are highly recommended, especially for company gatherings and special events. Dress elegantly and aim for smart casual attire as they have a strict dress code of smart casual with no caps, hoodies, and athletic wear at the venue. Also note that there will be a minimum spend required for Thursday – Sunday.
Florattica Rooftop Bar
- Location: 11-15 Minories, London EC3N 1AX
- Official Website: Florattica
- Menu: Cocktail Menu
- Floor: 11th floor (about 40 meters high)
Florattica Rooftop Bar offers amazing views of London’s financial district. Located near Tower Hill station, it combines sophistication with playful floral decor and vibrant colors. The bar’s interior design is inspired by East London’s textile industry and the local 17th century French Huguenots’ silk woven floral patterns. You will be dazzled by the number of patterns and textures incorporated into the bar when you take your first step into this unique rooftop bar in London!
Their signature cocktail, Florattica Bloom, delights with botanical flavors. Although they only provide a few dining options, they do offer a weekend brunch that is worth checking out. Advance bookings are encouraged as the rooftop is always full of trendy ladies and their girlfriends wanting to capture the stunning interior as well as the amazing view of the financial district.
12th Knot Rooftop Bar
- Location: Sea Containers London, 20 Upper Ground, London SE1 9PD
- Official Website: 12th Knot
- Menu: 12th Knot Menu
- Floor: 12th floor (about 50 meters high)
Located at Sea Containers London on the South Bank, 12th Knot is a stylish rooftop bar featuring a glass-framed indoor lounge and an open terrace. Guests enjoy wide views of the Thames, St Paul’s Cathedral, and the city’s skyline.
The vibe here is extremely vibrant, with live music on Wednesdays and DJs on weekends. Visitors’ favorite cocktail is the Southbank Spritz, a mix of Aperol, passionfruit, kalamansi, and prosecco. They also offer small plates, including crab cakes, lobster rolls, and tacos for hungry drinkers. Note that proof of age might be required as visitors under 18 are not allowed at this venue.
Smart casual attire is a necessity at the 12th Knot, so if you are wearing flip flops or sportswear, you will have to visit another day. Also, although the entrance is free, the tables on the terrace are first come first served. Therefore, we recommend booking in advance to secure your spot for a fun night outdoors!
Madison Rooftop
- Location: Rooftop Terrace, One New Change, London EC4M 9AF
- Official Website: Madison Rooftop
- Menu: Food & Drink
- Floor: 6th floor (around 25 meters high)
Madison Rooftop offers iconic views of St. Paul’s Cathedral. Located near St. Paul’s tube station, this trendy rooftop hosts lively weekend brunches and evening cocktails, complementing its services with various music line ups of DJs. They are known for bringing New York’s dining scene across the borders, while offering spectacular views of London to the visitors.
If you are in the hunt for the perfect Martini, consider giving their Madison Martini a shot. They also offer a wide selection of dining options such as New York styled grills with a hint of Asian flair. Looking for a spot for brunch with a view? Enjoy their weekend bottomless brunch with your girlfriends! Madison Rooftop truly has it all, from eclectic New York styled dining to memorable drinks with a view.
They do not take any bookings for drinks and parties under 10, and only accept entrance for people who are ready for a glamorous evening. An insider’s tip for your next visit: dress up in your best evening attire and skip the queue by arriving several hours prior to sunset to secure your spot at one of the best rooftop bars in London!
Jin Bo Law Skybar
- Location: 9 Aldgate High Street, London EC3N 1AH
- Official Website: Jin Bo Law Skybar
- Menu: Bar Menu
- Floor: 14th floor (about 60 meters high)
Jin Bo Law Skybar near Aldgate Station boasts views of the Gherkin, Tower Bridge, and the Shard. The bar’s lively yet chic atmosphere is ideal for a night out. You will get a full view of London’s best skyscrapers and experience the highs of city life at this rooftop bar!
Their signature cocktails, like the Dragon Air and High Life #3 combine unique fruity flavors beautifully with edible glitters and classic drinks that Londoners love. Their 17-page drinks menu truly reflects their passion for serving unforgettable drinks in the heart of London! For a hassle-free night, reservations are highly advised, especially for weekends or days with special events such as the summer solstice. Their dress code is smart casual without hoodies, flip flops, or sportswear, similar to other rooftop bars in London.
Conclusion
London’s rooftop bars provide incredible views, tasty drinks, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you prefer a casual or luxurious atmosphere, each rooftop offers something special. Exploring London from these bars gives you a fresh perspective on the city. Before heading off to these fantastic rooftop bars in London, join an exciting walking tour with Amitylux during the day, where you can brush your knowledge of the skyscrapers in the city. You will discover both hidden gems and iconic landmarks with our expert truly unforgettable by combining the views from above with adventures on the ground.
Head over to our handpicked guides to the best cafes in London, the best hotels in London, and tourist traps to avoid, for your perfect journey in London!
Frequently Asked Questions
Which rooftop bars in London are free?
Sky Pod Bar, Madison Rooftop, and London Bridge Rooftop Bar offer free entry with advance booking.
What is the highest bar in London?
Sky Pod Bar at Sky Garden, on the 35th floor, is the highest bar in London at 155 meters tall.
Is there a dress code for the London Bridge Rooftop bar?
Yes, smart casual attire is recommended, particularly in the evenings.
