10 Best Rooftop Bars in London

London is packed with Instagrammable bars so I’ll be taking it al-fresco and catching some rays! Have a read of our top 10 best rooftop bars covering everything from chilled date nights to something a bit more vibey…

Pergola Olympia

With a similar style to the flagship Pergola Paddington, this new space provides the perfect setting for an all-day sesh with the girls or a romantic first date. I recommend booking ahead to avoid disappointment, but they do also keep space for any last-minute walk-ins.

Photo credit: @pergolalondon

This rooftop bar is right next to Kensington Olympia so hop off the tube and bounce next door for skyline views of the city.

Aviary

Feeling a little extra? This self-proclaimed ‘premier rooftop bar’ of London, located in Finsbury Park, is well known for its stunning views and luxurious style. The terrace itself closes at 10pm, giving you plenty of time to soak up all the golden hour vibes.

Bar Elba

With a two-hour ‘happy hour’ running Sunday to Wednesday from 4-6pm, Bar Elba is the place to be if you’re looking to go HAM on the cocktails. Located near Waterloo, this bar is bright, colourful and tropical themed. Its sister bar, Tonight Josephine, is located just below in the basement giving you the perf venue to turn a day sesh into a night out. 

Photo credit: @toucanplayatthatgame

Radio Rooftop Bar

A pricey one if you’re wanting to splash the cash! Get a full view of the city with both North and South-facing terraces. Installed for summer, Radio Rooftop offers a Mexican Hacienda pop-up as well as a Botanical Garden. Sitting on the 10^th floor of ME London, Radio Rooftop comes through with the ultimate backdrop of London ft Big Ben and The London Eye.  

Madison

You’ve probs seen this bar on Instagram with views of St Pauls Cathedral. Definitely one of London’s most sought-after social locations, the suntrap terraces bring style with Skyline views. Often hosting all-night parties with live DJs, this is a great spot for a boozy birthday bash.

Roof East

More than just a rooftop bar, Roof East has opened for summer with a blaze of colour creating a free-spirited adult playground! Ditch the heels and get your kicks on with some casual footwear at this laidback Stratford spot. If you’re an active bunch that enjoys the odd game, head here for curling, bowling and shuffleboard lanes. Losers buy the next round!

Photo credit: @_sfgclub

Skybar 9

After a chilled, yet sophisticated one? If you’re north of London and don’t fancy joining in on the rat race into central, head to Wembley! Located away in the summit of the Hilton Wembley Hotel this hidden gem has live music & happy hours. Booking is not available so it’s first come first served. But it’ll be worth the battle to impress on the first date!

Queen of Hoxton

In the heart of Shoreditch, Queen of Hoxton has a jam-packed ‘What’s On’ page. With everything from drag bingo to rooftop parties, this is the place to whip out your lairy garms. Retro windbreaker jackets are welcome here! Again, no reservations available so if there’s a group of you wanting a spot – be a good egg and get there early for the rest of your squad.

Photo credit: @queenofhoxtonldn

If you’re keen to save your dollar, get on the guest list for a discount on Friday and Saturday entry!

Aqua Spirit

Want something super central? Hop out at Oxford Circus and head up to Aqua Spirit, a stone’s throw from the station. This place does not rely on the views that come with the rooftop as the service and drinks have a lot of hype. With the décor, ingredients and style of Japanese culture, it’s another rooftop bar that will be sure to impress. It does come with a price tag with cocktails starting at £12.50 just FYI…

Prince of Wales

In contrast to the bar above, POW (Prince of Wales) is a large music venue with two tiers to explore. Located in Brixton, often hosting disco rooftop parties, head to the top floor for some vibey summer tunes and bars. Dreamy sunset views followed by live DJ’s until 3am, what’s not to love? Did I mention there’s a rum shack…

Photo credit: @evidehaan

Which bar takes your fancy? I’ve noticed how rooftop bars are becoming less posh and more party which is defo something I can get on board with.   

Now you’ve got the rooftop bar lowdown, take a look at our new arrivals to sort your outfit! Follow UKK Fashion on Instagram for day-to-day updates on all the latest fashion trends – be sure to tag us in your posts!

Adios!