London loves its rooftop areas. The city is rife with gardens, restaurants, and bars that have Oscar-worthy views and an ambience that is as intriguing as they are breathtaking. London’s rooftop culture has evolved into an experience all its own, part social scene, part a love for beauty.
These high-rise escapes are not just about the view, though they certainly deliver on that front. They also offer everything from beautiful garden oases to rave party spots and modern, upscale lounges. The city has several rooftop bars, each with its own unique and beautiful concept. Depending on what you prefer and the kind of mood you are in, your choice of rooftop bar can change just like your love for food. In any case, here are some of the best rooftop bars in London that are a must-visit.
5 Best Rooftop Bars In London
1. Sky Garden Bar
2. Coq D’Argent
3. The Rooftop, St James
4. Aviary London
5. 12th Knot Bar
Best Rooftop Bars In London
1. Sky Garden
Sky Garden is a green indoor oasis perched atop the Walkie-Talkie skyscraper building in London’s financial district. The Garden Bar offers more than just a drink with a view, it is a part public botanical garden, part fine-dining restaurant and part chic bar, all floating 35 floors from the ground.
The indoor landscaped gardens are home to Mediterranean and South African plants, all artfully arranged around floor-to-ceiling glass. The window view looks out to landmarks like the Shard, the Thames, Tower Bridge, and St. Paul’s Cathedral. If you arrive at sunset, you get to see a sun-drenched glow of London and at night the city’s gleaming light adds a touch of whimsy to the whole setting.
At the heart of this sanctuary is Sky Garden Bar, a stylish yet unpretentious drink space. Here, the mixologists craft cocktails that match the season, often featuring tasty concoctions with herbaceous or fruity notes. Also, you can enjoy everything from a classic G&T to a unique house creation in the bar’s open space. As the evening unfolds, live music or a DJ set often kicks in, adding rhythm to the atmosphere.
Though access to the Sky Garden is free but with advance booking, reservations for the bar are highly recommended. Especially during peak hours on golden days like Thursdays to Saturdays.
Location: 1, Sky Garden Walk, 20 Fenchurch Street, London, United Kingdom
Hour Open: 8:00 am – 12:00 pm (Monday – Thursday)
8:00 am – 1:00 am (Friday)
9:00 am – 1:00 am (Saturday)
9:00 am – 12:00 am (Sunday)
Price Range: £9.50 – £50
2. Coq D’Argent
Coq D’Argent is the combination of a refined French bar meets London on a hidden rooftop garden. The inside is filled with polished wood, crisp linens, and timeless elegance. But the outside? That is where the real charm reveals itself. The rooftop terrace is a combination of manicured garden, neat lawns and hedges, summer trees, all offering a beautiful contrast to the steel and glass skyline that surrounds it.
It feels more like a secluded estate garden than a City rooftop. In spring and summer, Coq D’Argent Rooftop bar is sun-drenched and charming. While in winter, it transforms into a cosy hideaway, complete with heaters and seasonal decorations that bring out the festive spirit.
The drink list is a true representative of France’s exquisite menu. Under the guidance of an in-house sommelier, the menu stays true to classic French roots. The rooftop bar offers all types of drinks from cocktails, wines, champagne, spirits, to cigars, including rare vintages like Taittinger Comtes de Champagne. The Bar is the perfect place for a post-work tipple or weekend catch-up with friends.
Access to the rooftop is strictly on a first-come, first-served basis; no reservations required. On Fridays, DJ Mark Charade sets you in the mood for the weekend with French house and classic jazz.
Location: 1, Poultry, London, United Kingdom.
Hours Open: 12:00 pm – 12:00 am ( Monday – Saturday)
Price Range: £11 – £80
3. The Rooftop, St James
Nestled directly above Trafalgar Square, The Rooftop is a retreat that offers front-row views of London’s most celebrated landmarks. Nelson’s Column, the National Gallery, the London Eye, all laid out like a living postcard. The rooftop area overlooks Trafalgar Square and is designed with retractable roofs, canopy-covered sections, cozy heaters, and plush blankets. Making it perfect as an all-year-round venue that delivers a creative blend of indoor comfort and alfresco experience.
The Rooftop is a favorite for travelers, Londoners, and after-work urbanites looking for a breathtaking view with a drink in hand. For those craving privacy and drama, “ROOM” is a glass-walled private dining space on the terrace that overlooks the square. It offers the same view with just a little more privacy.
The cocktails served at the rooftop are signature mixes that lean into tequila and mezcal, vodka and spirit combos. For the purists in the house, no alarm, the champagne and wine list is very vast and impressive. There’s even whiskey, brandy, and non-alcoholic options depending on your preference.
The Outside terrace is pretty small, so reserving ahead of time ensures that you can get a space secured.
Location: Trafalgar, St James. 7th Floor, 2 Springs Gardens, London, United Kingdom
Hours Open: 3:00 pm – 12:00 am (Monday)
12:00 pm – 12:00 am (Tuesday – Saturday)
12:00 pm – 5:00 pm (Sunday)
Price Range: £10 – £60
4. The Aviary, London
The Aviary is located on the 10th floor of the Montcalm Royal London House Hotel. Its interior is a combination of velvet seating, modern lighting, and a layout designed for both intimacy and social sparkle. But the real draw is the outdoor terrace area.
The rooftop terrace is a wide space, dotted with chic lounge furniture, and breathtaking views of London’s skyscrapers and rooftops. Even in winter, Aviary keeps the rooftop ambience alive with heaters, igloo-style dining pods, and seasonal décor that transforms the terrace into a cosy urban perch. The aviary is open for all seasons and weather, making it ideal for romantic dates, after-work drinks, or weekend gatherings that linger past sunset.
The bar drinks are a perfectly crafted menu of cocktails that make use of a botanical theme. Drinks are a mix of natural ingredients and spirits mixed freshly and creatively. Aviary signature drinks include the Old Town rum cocktail, rum punch, and the creamy Coco Glen. It also offers a wide array of wine list, Champagnes, and spirits to suit any mood or preference.
Location: Royal London House, 22 – 25 Finsbury Square, London, United Kingdom
Hours Open: 6:30 pm – 12:00 am (Monday-Friday)
7:00 pm – 12:00 am (Saturday – Sunday)
Price Range: £20 – £80
5. Best Rooftop Bars In London: 12th Knot
Offering a view of the River Thames and London’s landmarks like St Paul’s Cathedral and Blackfriars Bridge, 12th Knot is open open-plan layout bar with a compact terrace. The Rooftop bar is positioned on the 12th floor of the Sea Containers London hotel. A little different from your average rooftop layout, 12th Knot has floor-to-ceiling windows that make the most of its riverside vantage point.
The space feels like a blend of a conservatory and a cocktail lounge, with the greenery and furnishing. Add in an open-plan design that lets the city beyond act as a backdrop, and you have a rooftop masterpiece. Thursday through Saturday are for Rooftop sessions. A music session accompanied by resident DJs spinning feel-good sets from afrobeat to house that keep the atmosphere upbeat without overpowering the conversation.
The drinks menu is a mix of British and American cocktail traditions, infused with seasonal options. 12th Knot serves signature concoctions like The Thousand and Southbank Spritz or Fire and Ice. Alongside your drink, you can find a menu of small plates designed for sharing nibbles. Tuna tacos, truffle arancini, oysters, and ceviche that’s fresh and filling.
The bar operates a first-come, first-served policy for the terrace area, although large groups can book a reservation. There is also step-free access, ensuring everyone can enjoy the experience.
Location: 20, Upper Ground, South Bank, London, United Kingdom
Hours Open: 5:00 pm – 12:00 am (Tuesday – Wednesday)
5:00 pm – 12:30 am (Thursday – Friday)
4:00 pm – 12:30 am (Saturday)
Price Range: £15 – £50
Conclusion
London is beautiful whether it is daytime or nighttime. Every street, park, and riverside offers up a hidden gem to be explored. To fully enjoy the city’s beauty, though, you might need to view it from above. London’s rooftop bars have successfully created a charming experience that showcases the beauty of the city from above while also serving drinks and providing an atmosphere that is as memorable as the view.
