London’s Rooftop Bars You Absolutely Must Try: Sip, Snap, and Soar Above the City

by Romy N.
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Let’s be honest: drinks just taste better with a view. And in London, views don’t come much better than from a rooftop. Whether you’re craving virgin mojitos under fairy lights or craft cocktails above the Thames, the capital’s rooftops serve it all: sky-high vibes, panoramic scenes, and unforgettable nights. From swanky hotel lounges to garden hideouts on top of pubs, these bars combine the thrill of the skyline with the joy of a perfectly made drink. Whether you’re chasing the golden hour or settling in for an evening under the stars, here are the most fabulous rooftop bars in London that are worth the climb (or the elevator ride).


1. The Berkeley Rooftop – Knightsbridge

Where poolside glamour meets Hyde Park serenity, The Berkeley Rooftop is a hidden summer gem in one of London’s most iconic luxury hotels. Typically exclusive to hotel guests, this rooftop opens its doors to the public when the sun shines, offering an upscale escape from the city bustle. Lounge beside a sparkling sapphire pool, sip on perfectly chilled rosé or signature cocktails, and gaze across leafy Knightsbridge rooftops and beyond. It’s more than just a drink—this is where luxury lives in the clouds.


2. Coq d’Argent – City of London

A garden in the sky—literally. Sitting atop No. 1 Poultry, Coq d’Argent is an oasis of sophistication nestled in the financial heart of London. With its immaculately manicured lawns and classic French cuisine, this is where deals are toasted and romantic dates begin. The rooftop offers sweeping views of the surrounding skyscrapers and historic architecture, making it a rare blend of charm and corporate chic. Go for the wine list, stay for the sunset.


3. Llama Inn – Shoreditch

Transporting Brooklyn vibes to the streets of Shoreditch, Llama Inn is a colourful celebration of Peruvian flavour and East London creativity. Located on top of The Hoxton, this vibrant terrace is the perfect place to enjoy bold dishes like lamb empanadas or crispy prawns with spicy aji sauce. The cocktails are playful and punchy, and the crowd is effortlessly cool. Whether you’re basking in the sunshine or wrapped in a throw under fairy lights, Llama Inn turns any moment into a party.


4. Los Mochis – Liverpool Street

Perched on the ninth floor above Broadgate Circle, Los Mochis blends Tokyo elegance with Mexican heat. The fusion menu is unforgettable—think wagyu tacos, miso black cod, and fiery agave-laced cocktails. But it’s not just about the food. With panoramic views stretching from St. Paul’s to the London Eye, this rooftop is pure magic at golden hour. The decor is sleek, the soundtrack is lively, and the tequila selection will keep you lingering long after the sun goes down.


5. TT Liquor – Shoreditch

TT Liquor is a Shoreditch staple known for its immersive cocktail experiences and hidden, leafy rooftop. This bar-school-cinema hybrid is effortlessly cool and charmingly under the radar. The rooftop, filled with plants and mismatched chairs, is the perfect backdrop for a spontaneous evening or a quiet midweek catch-up. The cocktails are as creative as the setting—crafted with flair and fun, without an ounce of pretension. A true east London treasure.


6. Frank’s Café – Peckham

There’s just something about Frank’s. Bold, unfiltered, and totally Peckham, this cult favourite sits atop a multi-storey car park and somehow delivers one of the best sunset views in the city. The pink stairwell leading up has become something of a local icon, and once you arrive, you’re treated to strong negronis, street-food style bites, and a buzzing creative crowd. It’s raw, it’s real, and it captures the energy of a London summer like nowhere else.


7. The Culpeper Roof Garden – Spitalfields

Hidden above a classic pub, The Culpeper Roof Garden is part bar, part urban farm, and fully enchanting. The space is bursting with greenery—tomatoes, herbs, and edible flowers all growing within arm’s reach. It’s the kind of place where your mojito mint was picked minutes before it hits your glass. Rustic wooden tables, fairy lights, and an ever-changing seasonal menu make this rooftop feel warm, welcoming, and full of heart.


8. The Rooftop at The Standard – King’s Cross

The energy up here is electric. Perched atop The Standard hotel, this rooftop buzzes with colour, sound, and personality. The views stretch across King’s Cross, with historic architecture and train tracks giving way to glittering lights after dark. It’s where DJs spin, creatives mingle, and frozen margaritas flow. Bold and a little bit rebellious, The Rooftop is where you go when you want your night to have a soundtrack.


9. Sabine – St. Paul’s

Just around the corner from St. Paul’s Cathedral, Sabine feels like a secret garden in the sky. The space is lush and leafy, dotted with low-slung sofas and greenery galore. Come for the views—close enough to St. Paul’s to feel like you can touch it—but stay for the sophisticated yet relaxed vibe. With clever cocktails, sharable plates, and a touch of floral magic, it’s one of the city’s most elegant escapes.


10. Florattica – Aldgate

Florattica is a floral dreamscape floating above the city. Inspired by East London’s textile past, the bar is a tribute to craftsmanship and creativity. The interiors are draped with blooms, the drinks list leans botanical, and the atmosphere is equal parts chic and playful. From your table on the 11th floor, you’ll gaze out at some of the city’s most iconic sights—all while sipping something infused, sparkling, and surprisingly photogenic.


London’s rooftop scene is more than just a trend—it’s a celebration of the city from above. Whether you’re watching the skyline glow pink at dusk or dancing under the stars with a glass in hand, these bars offer experiences that are stylish, spirited, and full of character. So next time you’re in the mood for something a little more elevated, skip the basement bar and head for the skies. Your next favourite rooftop is waiting.

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