Rooftop Bars London Edition
At long last, summer is just around the corner. With brighter mornings and warmer evenings, nothing beats sitting out in the sun with an ice cold beverage after a long day. But in the busy streets of London, it can be tricky finding the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the sunshine. Lucky for us, London is home to some the best rooftop bars, from themed bars to flower gardens and fancy restaurants serving a range of delicious foods, there's something for everyone. We've sifted through the dozens of the city's drinking holes and listed our top 10 favourite rooftop bars in London. We've also included all the details you need to know, from prices, locations, opening times and an overview of the menus.
Queen of Hoxton
Queen Of Hoxton Bar The Queen of Hoxton is the funkiest venue around. It has three stories and a basement bar that comes to life at night, with raves, DJ's and even comedy shows. Above, you will find yourself surrounded by delicious cocktails, mural art and a games area, including the classic vintage pinball, table football and ping pong tables. Heading up to the top floor you will find one of London's best rooftop bars. With the theme changing twice a year, it's awesome styles attract thousands of patrons annually. From April 28th this year the theme is 'A tribute to Dr Strange'. Enjoy a warm summer's evening, sipping on tasty cocktails and slushies. Or, maybe tuck into one of their tasty menu options like their Beatnik Burger filled with spiced lamb, aubergine and tzatziki. More information can be found here. Also if you're looking for a venue during the winter months, look here for their winter theme and menu. Location: Shoreditch Opening times: Monday - Friday from 4pm - 10pm Saturday and Sunday from 12pm - 10pm Website: http://queenofhoxton.com/*From time to time, the venue or rooftop is hired out exclusively and doesn’t open for the occasional lunch time or evening. For definitive opening times please follow their twitter: @_Queenofhoxton_
Aqua
Aqua Rooftop Bar This stunning bar and restaurant is located in the center of London, on Regent Street. This is the perfect place if you're looking to escape the busy shoppers on Oxford street and enjoy a cool beverage. Depending on where you stand, the London eye and BT Tower are in sight. Plus, when the sun sets you have the perfect spot for watching the city light up. Aqua takes its inspiration from Japan, the cocktails and food are Japanese style. More information can be found on their website, plus their food and drink menus are available online. Click here to have a peak at their delicious Japanese snack menu. Location: Regent Street Opening times: Open for lunch 12pm - 3pm. Drinks available from 3pm on wards depending on weather. Website: http://aquaspirit.co.uk/*Aqua are unable to take reservations for the terraces. Entrance is on a first come, first served basis.
Radio Rooftop Bar
Radio Rooftop Bar Radio rooftop bar is located on the 10th floor of the ME Hotel in Strand, this bar offers a variety of drinks including spirits, wines, cocktails, alcoholic and non-alcoholic, the list is endless. Click here to take a look at the menu. The comfy white sofas located on the terrace are the perfect spot for overlooking the city, and you can see some of London's most iconic buildings such as; Tate Modern, Houses of Parliament and the London Eye. The food menu is inspired by a Spanish tapas bar, perfect for picking a variety of different plates and sharing with friends. And if you're not a night owl, they do a weekend brunch and offer afternoon tea during the week at The Skyline. For more information, click here. The best part about Radio is it's open until 2am Thursday - Saturday, the only rooftop bar in the are to be open that late as well. The late-night crowd is young, trendy and elegantly dressed, it's the place to see and be seen. Location: Strand Opening times: Sunday - Wednesday 11am - late Thursday - Saturday 11am - 2am Events: 12pm - 5pm Monday to Friday (Afternoon Tea) 11am - 3pm Saturdays and Sunday (Brunch at Radio) Website: http://radiorooftop.com/london/
Coq d'Argent
Coq d'Argent Rooftop Bar Dine at the Coq d'Argent Restaurant and then head up to their terrace and garden for an evening watching the sunset. With an endless list of drinks, including an excellent wine and beer selection, there is a libation for every taste. The terrace is heated for when it's a little cooler outside so it's perfect for all seasons. The crowd here is well-dressed, 30+ year olds who are looking for a sophisticated and relaxed night out. They also hold different events, if you want to know more click here.Location: The Poultry, Central London Opening times: Opening times vary for different bars/restaurants. The Terrace/Rooftop bar opening times; Monday - Friday: 11.30am - 12am Saturday: 12pm - 12am Sunday: 12pm - 5pm Website: http://www.coqdargent.co.uk/
The Roof Gardens
Kensington Roof Top Bar and Gardens The stunning Roof Gardens are located in Kensington, and sitting 100ft above London, they boast fantastic views. The Roof Gardens span across 1.5 acres, and include a members club and Babylon Restaurant. The Garden is open to the public free of charge. The garden is divided into three perfectly sculpted areas; the lush Spanish Garden, the well-manicured Tudor Garden, and the the more untamed English Woodland and Wildlife. This photogenic green space is the perfect place to spend a hot summer's day. The club is a privates members club, (you can apply for membership here). The club hosts a variety of events, plus there's six different rooms where you can enjoy DJ's and drinks all night long. Lastly, the Babylon Restaurant, located on the 7th floor, offers a succulent seafood menu for patrons to enjoy on its terrace for lunch and dinner, seven days a week. This spectacular venue is definitely one of the poshest in the city, so come dressed to impress. Location: Kensington Opening times: Opening hours vary, click here for more information. Website: http://www.virginlimitededition.com/en/the-roof-gardens
Big Chill House
Big Chill House Roof Terrace Located in Kings Cross, London, the Big Chill House Roof Terrace is a popular bar throughout the year, but it really stands out come summer. Its relaxed atmosphere is perfect for sitting out under the sun and enjoying drinks with friends. The Big Chill House also offers a variety of food and rooms for hire, whether you're looking for a room, table or even the entire venue, it's a great venue for birthdays and special events. If you're interested in what fancy food and drinks they offer, click here to find out more. Location: Kings Cross Opening Times: Sunday - Wednesday 11am - 12am Thursdays 11am - 1am Friday & Saturdays 11am - 3am Website: http://wearebigchill.com/house/*Big Chill House is an over 21s venue on Fridays and Saturdays.
Golden Bee
Golden Bee Rooftop Bar This sophisticated, urban bar is the perfect place for all events, whether you want a chilled afternoon drink or a lively weekend, there's something for everyone, plus they hold different events throughout the year. With a DJ playing non-stop club anthems and a long list of delicious cocktails, it's fair to say it's got the best atmosphere around. Open all year round, it's perfect for a drink in the summer evenings but also in the cold winter nights sitting around the fire-pit. From cocktails to beers and all spirits too, there's so much to choose from, plus they offer happy hour! For more information click here.Location: Shoreditch Opening times: Monday & Tuesday 5pm - 12am Wednesday 5pm - 1am Thursday 5pm - 2am Friday & Saturday 5pm - 3am Website: http://www.goldenbee.co.uk/
Netil 360
Netil 360 Rooftop Bar Open Wednesdays to Sundays from midday, Netil 360 terrace bar is the perfect place to spend your summer evenings, they hold a range of events from outdoor movie screenings to yoga classes and daytime parties. They list any upcoming events on there website here. With a varied menu of drinks and snacks there's plenty of treats and tasty alcoholic lollies. Location: Hackney Opening times: Monday & Tuesdays - ClosedWednesday & Sunday 10am - 9pm Thursday - Saturdays 10am - 11pm Website: http://netil360.com/*Netil360 is an over-18s only venue.
Queen Elizabeth Roof Garden Bar & Cafe
Queen Elizabeth Roof Garden Bar & Cafe Built in 2011, Queen Elizabeth Roof Garden Bar is located on Southbank, the roof top garden is filled with wildflowers, picnic areas, a woodland garden and of course, bar, plus there's much more. It's a great spot for relaxing under the sun, plus the views of Southbank are incredible, located right by the River Thames, you have great views of London. Food and drink are provided by Company of Cooks, they sell the perfect snacks for an afternoon picnic. Location: Southbank Opening Times: 10am - 10pm daily (April - September) Website: http://www.southbankcentre.co.uk/venues/Queen-Elizabeth-Hall-Roof-Garden
The Vista at The Trafalgar HotelVista at The Trafalgar Hotel
The Vista at The Trafalgar Hotel is located on the South-West side of Trafalgar Square, it provides panoramic views of the square, perfect for watching the sun set across the city. Each year the bar is known for expanding it's list of cocktails and spirits, plus their food menu, from burgers to light plates, there's something for everyone. This sophisticated bar has plenty to offer, to take a look at their menu, click here. Every year a new sponsor takes over the bar, styling it and adding to it, in fact this year two new brands have taken over, designed like a South American Rum Shack and rustic wooden features there's plenty going on, for more information visit their website. Location: Trafalgar Square Opening Times: Monday - Saturday 12pm - 11pm Sunday 12pm - 10pm Website: http://www.thetrafalgar.com/vista-homepage/*Please note access to Vista is subject to a £5 cover charge for all guests from 4pm daily and a minimum spend applies.