Discover the Best Rooftop Bars in London for Unforgettable City Views

London's skyline is pretty amazing, right? And honestly, there's no better way to really soak it all in than from a rooftop bar. I've been checking out some of the top spots, and let me tell you, the views are just unreal. These places aren't just about looking good, though; they serve up some seriously tasty food and drinks too. If you're looking for the best rooftop bars in London, you've come to the right place. Whether you fancy a relaxed drink after work or a full-on night out with friends, there's definitely a spot for you.

Key Takeaways

• Sky Garden and Radio Rooftop are known for their amazing city views, including landmarks like The Shard.

• Booking ahead is usually a good idea for popular rooftop bars, especially on weekends.

• Sky Garden offers free entry but you need to book a time slot well in advance.

• Some rooftop bars are open all year round, with heaters for colder months, but summer is peak season.

• For a unique experience, check out places with themed events or special decorations that change seasonally.

1. 14 Hills

Perched on the 14th floor of 120 Fenchurch Street, 14 Hills is a real gem for anyone wanting to soak in the London skyline. The panoramic views here are simply spectacular, stretching out over some of the city's most famous sights. It's not just about the vista, though; the place itself feels like a bit of an escape.

Inside, they've gone for a lush, green vibe, with plants and trees dotted around. It’s quite a contrast to the busy city below, making it feel like a bit of an oasis. The decor is modern and elegant, which all adds to the overall pleasant atmosphere.

When it comes to food and drink, 14 Hills doesn't disappoint. The menu has some really tasty options, and the cocktails are pretty creative too. It's definitely a spot that feels a bit special, so it’s a good shout for a celebration or when you just fancy treating yourself.

It's worth noting that the floor above, The Garden at 120, is a free public space. While you can access it without a booking, having a reservation at 14 Hills means you can head up there more easily, especially around sunset, which is quite a bonus.

Here's a quick look at what you can expect:

• Views: Unrivalled city panoramas.

• Ambiance: Elegant and garden-inspired interior.

• Cuisine: Modern European with fresh flavours.

• Drinks: A well-crafted cocktail list.

• Service: Attentive and professional.

While it leans towards the pricier end, the combination of the views, the food, and the general feel of the place makes it a memorable experience.

2. Sky Garden

You can't really talk about London's best rooftop spots without mentioning the Sky Garden. It's perched right at the top of the 'Walkie Talkie' building, officially known as 20 Fenchurch Street, and it's still one of the most talked-about places to get a view of the city. The best part? You can go up for free, but you absolutely have to book your slot in advance. Seriously, don't just turn up expecting to get in; slots get snapped up about two weeks ahead of time.

It's not exactly the place for a long, leisurely drink session, as there's a time limit of about an hour if you're just there for drinks. But the mix of the lush indoor garden and the glass-enclosed terrace is pretty special. It feels like a bit of an oasis high above the hustle and bustle.

The Sky Garden offers a unique blend of nature and cityscapes, making it a memorable stop for anyone wanting to see London from above.

While it's not the most relaxed spot for a lengthy stay, the views are undeniably impressive. You get a real sense of the city's sprawl from up there. It's definitely worth the effort to book ahead for the experience.

3. Radio Rooftop London

Perched up on the 10th floor of the ME London hotel, Radio Rooftop London offers a pretty slick spot to take in the city. It's got this modern, clean vibe with plenty of greenery, and you can see some of the big hitters like The Shard and St Paul's Cathedral from its terrace. They do Mediterranean-inspired food, which is nice, and the cocktails are mixed up well. It's a good place if you want decent views without too much fuss.

Radio Rooftop London is a great choice for those seeking a stylish setting with impressive city panoramas.

Here's a quick rundown:

• Views: Expect to see The Shard, St Paul's Cathedral, and Somerset House.

• Vibe: Modern, chic, with a touch of greenery.

• Food: Mediterranean-inspired dishes.

• Drinks: Well-crafted cocktails.

It's worth noting that while the terrace offers fantastic views, it can get a bit breezy, so a light layer might be a good idea even on a warmer day.

4. Madison

Right in the heart of the city, perched atop One New Change, Madison offers a seriously impressive panorama. You get a front-row seat to St. Paul's Cathedral, and honestly, the view is just something else. It’s the kind of place that makes you feel like you’re really in London, with the Gherkin and other city landmarks stretching out before you.

It’s not just about the view though. The food is pretty good too, with an American-inspired menu that does a decent steak. And the cocktails? They’ve got a whole menu dedicated to Aperol Spritz, which is a nice touch on a sunny afternoon.

If you're looking for a bit of a party vibe, especially on a weekend, Madison often has DJs and live music. It can get pretty busy, especially after work, so it’s worth booking ahead if you can. They also do a bottomless brunch, which sounds like a good way to start a Saturday or Sunday.

This spot is a bit of a magnet for people who work in the surrounding financial district, so expect a lively atmosphere, particularly during the week. It’s a good shout for after-work drinks or a more upbeat weekend gathering.

5. SUSHISAMBA London

Perched high up in the Heron Tower, SUSHISAMBA London isn't just a place to eat; it's a full-on sensory experience. Occupying the 38th and 39th floors, the views here are pretty spectacular, offering a sweeping panorama of the city that you just don't get from street level. Stepping out of the lift, you're immediately greeted by these incredible 360-degree vistas, with floor-to-ceiling windows bringing London right into the dining room.

The food itself is a really interesting mix – think Japanese, Brazilian, and Peruvian all rolled into one. They do some fantastic sushi rolls, and the robata-grilled dishes are definitely worth trying. It’s the kind of place where you can easily spend an evening, watching the sunset paint the sky over landmarks like St. Paul's Cathedral while you tuck into your meal.

What really sets SUSHISAMBA apart, though, are its outdoor terraces. They’re a brilliant spot to just chill with a cocktail. You'll even find a distinctive orange tree sculpture out there, which adds a bit of flair to the whole experience. It’s a great place to go if you're looking for something a bit different and want to impress.

• Cuisine: Japanese, Brazilian, Peruvian fusion

• Location: Heron Tower, Bishopsgate, London EC2N 4AY

• Highlights: Panoramic city views, unique food, outdoor terraces

It’s easy to see why SUSHISAMBA is a popular choice. The combination of the amazing views, the distinctive food, and the lively atmosphere makes it a memorable spot for any occasion.

6. Garden Rooftop

Tucked away above the Assembly Hotel, Garden Rooftop is a bit of a find, offering some really lovely city views that honestly surprised me. It’s got this Mediterranean vibe going on, and the food is pretty decent – think Italian dishes and some well-made cocktails.

It’s a great spot for a relaxed afternoon or an evening out.

They do a '90s themed bottomless brunch on weekends, which seems to be a big hit, so if you're looking for something a bit more lively, that could be your thing. The staff are friendly enough, and it generally feels like a pleasant place to be. It’s not the most high-end place in London, but it’s got a good atmosphere and those views are definitely a plus.

• Location: Above the Assembly Hotel

• Vibe: Mediterranean-inspired, lively at weekends

• Food: Italian dishes, cocktails

• Special: '90s themed bottomless brunch

7. The Rooftop

Tucked away on the 7th floor at 2 Spring Gardens, The Rooftop offers a surprisingly chic escape with fantastic city views, even though it's not the highest spot in town. It’s got this really nice vibe, a bit sophisticated but still relaxed enough for a good time. The mix of indoor and outdoor seating means you can enjoy it pretty much year-round.

When I went, I was really impressed with the atmosphere. They’ve got these comfy sofas and even fire pits for when it gets a bit chilly, which is a nice touch. The cocktail list is pretty extensive, with some creative drinks that actually taste as good as they look.

For food, they do these small plates, and honestly, they were spot on. The grilled octopus was cooked perfectly, and the truffle arancini were just the right amount of crispy. The staff were really helpful too, knew their stuff about the menu and were happy to point me in the right direction.

It’s definitely a popular place, especially around sunset, so booking ahead is a good idea. Whether you're looking for a romantic dinner or just a nice night out with mates, The Rooftop is worth checking out.

• Location: 7th Floor, 2 Spring Gardens, London SW1A 2TS

• Contact: +44 20 7870 2904

• Best for: Cocktails and small plates with a sophisticated vibe.

8. London Bridge Rooftop Bar

Right by London Bridge, this spot offers a really cool outdoor vibe. It’s super close to The Shard, so you get some pretty amazing views, especially at night when everything lights up. The whole place is covered, which is a lifesaver if the weather decides to be typically British, and they even have heaters to keep you cosy.

It’s a great place to just chill out with friends. The music is usually pretty upbeat, thanks to the DJs they have spinning tunes, and they’ve got a decent selection of drinks. I tried a cocktail, and it was spot on. They also do food, which looked pretty tasty, perfect for soaking up a few drinks.

Here’s a quick rundown:

• Views: Expect to see The Shard, St Paul's, and the London Eye.

• Vibe: Lively with good music, great for a night out.

• Food: Yes, they serve burgers and other bits.

• Weather: Covered and heated, so it’s open come rain or shine.

• Access: No lift, so be prepared for stairs.

It’s definitely worth checking out if you're in the area and fancy some city views with a bit of atmosphere. You can find out more about London Bridge Rooftop Bar and what they offer.

9. Jin Bo Law

Perched high above the city, Jin Bo Law offers a truly unique perspective. It's not just about the drinks, though they are pretty good – think creative cocktails with names that hint at the exotic. What really sets this place apart is the atmosphere. It feels a bit like stepping into a different world, with its stylish decor and the buzz of the city spread out beneath you.

The views from Jin Bo Law are simply spectacular, especially as the sun goes down. You get a fantastic panorama that stretches across the skyline, taking in some of London's most recognisable buildings. It's the kind of place that makes you feel like you're on top of the world, perfect for a special occasion or just when you fancy treating yourself.

Here's a little of what you can expect:

• A wide selection of signature cocktails, often with a twist.

• Stunning panoramic views of the London skyline.

• A chic and sophisticated interior design.

• A lively atmosphere, particularly on weekends.

This spot is ideal for those seeking a more upscale experience. The attention to detail in both the drinks and the ambiance makes it a memorable destination for anyone wanting to soak in the city from a different angle.

10. Savage Garden

Savage Garden is a pretty cool spot if you're looking for a rooftop bar with a bit of an edge. It's located in the heart of the city, and the views are something else, especially looking out towards the Tower of London. The place itself has a really modern and stylish vibe, which makes it feel quite sophisticated.

The cocktails here are definitely a highlight, with some really creative concoctions on offer. They also do food, including brunch, which is always a bonus when you're enjoying the views. It's the kind of place that feels good for a night out with friends or even a more special occasion.

Here's a little of what you can expect:

• Spectacular views of the Tower of London and the city skyline.

• A chic, contemporary interior design.

• An extensive cocktail menu with unique drinks.

• Food options, including brunch, available.

It's worth noting that while the views are fantastic, it can get quite busy, especially on weekends. Booking ahead is a good idea if you have a specific time or table in mind. The atmosphere is usually quite lively, so if you're after a quiet, intimate chat, you might want to consider a weeknight.

If you're after a rooftop experience that's a bit more dramatic and visually striking, Savage Garden is certainly worth checking out. You can find out more about their current offerings on their website.

So, What Are You Waiting For?

Right then, that's a wrap on our little tour of London's best rooftop spots. Whether you're after a fancy meal with a view or just a chilled drink as the sun goes down, there's definitely something out there for everyone. It's pretty amazing how you can be right in the middle of the city buzz and then suddenly find yourself looking out over it all from way up high. So next time you're planning a catch-up or a special occasion, remember these places. You won't regret swapping the pavement for the sky, trust me.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which rooftop bars in London have the best views?

For amazing views of London's famous buildings like The Shard and St. Paul's Cathedral, check out Sky Garden and Radio Rooftop. They offer some of the most famous sights in the city.

Do I need to book a table at London's rooftop bars?

Yes, usually you do! Popular spots like Sky Garden, Seabird, and Madison often get busy, especially on weekends and when the weather is nice. It's a good idea to book ahead to be sure.

Are there any rooftop bars in London that are free to get into?

Sky Garden is free to visit, but you must book a specific time slot online in advance. These slots can get taken up quickly, so plan ahead!

Can I visit London's rooftop bars all year round?

Many rooftop bars are open all year. They often have heaters and covers to keep you warm in winter. However, summer is definitely the busiest and most popular time to go.

Where can I find a rooftop bar with a really unique vibe?

Queen of Hoxton in Shoreditch is known for its cool themed events. They change their decorations and menus throughout the year, making it a really interesting place to visit.

What's the best rooftop bar for a special occasion?

For a special treat, consider 14 Hills. It has stunning views, great food, and excellent service, making it a memorable spot for a celebration.