10 of London's best rooftop bars for summer

Metro

4 hours ago

It sure is hot here in the UK and down south the heatwave is sizzling in London.
But there's nothing quite like a tipple in the summer sun, so if you're in search of somewhere with stellar views and a light breeze, a rooftop bar is the way to go.
Whether you want to gaze out toward The Shard, indulge in some delicious food, or have a boogie while the DJ plays – we think we've got something for everyone.
So, if you're in need of some inspiration for your next night out, Metro has 10 picks of the city's best rooftop venues…
When you're 11 floors up at this rooftop bar with views of the Gherkin and St Pauls, there are few views that rival it.
The award-winning Florattica is known for its iconic flower ceiling, al fresco dining and a DJ that brings the coolest vibes – it's a spot you don't want to miss.
Be sure to try some of its experimental cocktails, and line your stomach with a selection of small plates and fresh pasta.
Location: Level 11, Canopy by Hilton London City, 11-15 Minories, EC3N 1AX Tube: Aldgate (Circle or Metropolitan lines)
If you're a sucker for Italian-ish drinks, small dishes and stunning views then Forza Wine is another great find.
Yes, there's wine, but the cocktail menu is another great selling point, with a rhubarb manhattan, apple tom collins and even a frozen cucumber margarita.
There's two locations but Peckham really takes the cake.
Location: The Rooftop, 133A Rye Lane, London, SE15 4BQ Train: Peckham Rye (connects to Jubilee and Northern Lines)
You'll get some pretty unparalleled views of the skyline at this iconic venue, and although it's located mainly indoors it'll feel as though you're out in the open thanks to the surrounding greenery and huge picture windows.
There are two bars to choose from – Sky Pod and City Garden – where you can sip your cocktail or G&T while watching the sunset, as well as three restaurants within the building.
It's a must-visit, although be aware it doesn't come cheap – cocktails start at around £15, while the cheapest glass of wine will set you back a tenner.
Location: Rooftop, Mercury House, 109-117 Waterloo Road London, SE1 8UL Tube: Waterloo (Northern, Bakerloo and Jubilee Lines) https://www.instagram.com/p/DKPQZFboD8w/
Moving further west, you can soak up the sunshine and the views at the Paddington-based Pergola – which has the feel of a beach venue with its rattan fixtures and fittings and palm trees dotted around.
As well as cocktails you can also make the most of street food vendors serving up fried chicken, burgers and Japanese dishes (at time of writing: the menu changes from time to time).
There's also a bottomless brunch on Sundays, and a DJ at weekends spinning timeless classics.
You can book in advance if visiting in a group but there's space for walk-ins too.
Location: 5 Kingdom St, London W2 6PY Tube: Paddington (Bakerloo, Hammersmith and City, Circle, District and Elizabeth Lines) https://www.instagram.com/p/DKpbw4cM8pE/
Having opened in 2023, this rooftop gem has already made an impression, becoming very popular on TikTok.
Offering stunning vistas of the iconic London skyline and lounge tables to get comfy on, it's the perfect place to unwind.
Offering a unique blend of Japanese and Mexican food including sushi andtacos, you can indulge in delicious light but tasty bites.
There's also Sunday sessions from 1pm to 9pm which offer DJ sets as you watch the sun go down.
Location: 9th Floor, 100 Liverpool Street, London, EC2M 2AT Tube: Liverpool Street (Elizabeth, Central, Circle, Hammersmith & City, and Metropolitan lines) https://www.instagram.com/p/DLFXBiaN94V/
In the heart of Soho you can indulge in a Turkish-inspired menu and divine cocktails at Yasmin.
You can use this as a go-to spot for date nights, a catch up with friends or even private dining, six floors up.
The best bites on offer are the sumac duck, chicken shish and the whipped sheep's cheese and flatbread.
Location: 1 Warwick St, London W1B 5LR Tube: Piccadilly Circus (Piccadilly line and the Bakerloo line)
For those who like the finer things in life, venture to Seabird which offers panoramic views at 14 floors up, and oysters.
At the top of The Hoxton you can indulge in some sangria, which is perfect for the sorching summer, or even frozen mojitos.
It even has a late-night residency with Ronnie Scott offering classic jazz and bespoke martinis.
Location: 40 Blackfriars Road, London, United Kingdom SE1 8PB Tube: Southwark (Jubilee line) https://www.instagram.com/p/DKsCR0uBuD4/
If you prefer to glance out at Tower Bridge then head 12 floors up to Savage Garden.
Indulge in live music, good wine and very funky cocktails – but it is on the pricier side.
Perched on top of the Double Tree by Hilton it's elegant and chic, but it gets very busy so you'll probably want to book in advance.
Location: Savage Garden, 7, Pepys Street, EC3N 4AF Tube: Tower Hill (Circle and District lines)
Now hear us out on this one because it's atop the John Lewis flagship store, but it's a true find.
Offering a stunning rooftop escape with breathtaking city views, private greenhouses, and an elegant open-air terrace, it's great for a laid back afternoon with friends.
The menu features fruit-forward brambles; Kumquat Old Fashioned; and a Calamansi Margarita with a spiced ancho chili rim.
As the sun sets, live DJ sets on Friday and Saturday nights set the mood, making 1864 the ultimate spot for an elevated rooftop experience in the heart of London.
Location: Sixth floor, 300 Oxford St, London W1C 1DX Tube: Oxford Circus and Bond Street (Bakerloo, Central, and Victoria lines and Jubilee and Elizabeth lines)
Located on the 10th floor of the ME London hotel, Radio Rooftop not only offers a superb cocktail list, but also a 360-degree views that shows off the capital's skyline and the River Thames. More Trending
It's a fabulous spot to chill out with a drink, as well as enjoy dishes from the seasonal menu – but be aware that it doesn't come cheap.
A glass of champagne will set you back around £16, while a cocktail comes in at around £19.
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Location: ME London, 336-337 Strand, London WC2R 1HA Tube: Covent Garden (Piccadilly line)/Temple (Circle and District line)
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