London's skyline pulsates with energy, and nowhere is this more evident than its rooftop bars. Soaring above the urban hum, these sky-high havens offer not just panoramic vistas but also innovative cocktails, delicious bites, and unforgettable atmospheres. So, put on your cocktail attire and join me as we embark on a whirlwind tour of the top 10 rooftop bars in London, guaranteed to take your breath (and your taste buds) away!
1. Sky Garden, 20 Fenchurch Street:
Where: 20 Fenchurch St, London EC3M 8AB
Description: Lush greenery meets breathtaking city views at this multi-level garden oasis. Sip creative cocktails amidst the plants, enjoying panoramic vistas from the 35th floor.
Must-Try: "Sky High Tea" - gin, elderflower, cucumber, and mint, celebrating the garden theme.
Average Spend: £20-£30 for cocktails, tapas around £12-£15
Vibe: Tranquil oasis amidst the city, breathtaking views.
2. Radio Rooftop, ME London:
Where: 33 Great Queen St, London WC2B 5AA
Description: Sleek design meets stunning city panoramas at this stylish rooftop bar. Savor expertly crafted cocktails and Mediterranean-inspired tapas while the city shimmers below.
Must-Try: "Radio Spritz" - Aperol, prosecco, grapefruit, rosemary, perfect for sunset sipping.
Average Spend: £15-£25 for cocktails, tapas around £10-£15
Vibe: Sleek and stylish, city chic with stunning panoramas, live DJ sets on weekends.
3. Aqua Kyoto, London:
Where: 24th Floor, 20 Upper Ground, London SE1 9PF
Description: Modern Japanese elegance meets breathtaking cityscapes at this sophisticated bar. Indulge in innovative cocktails and expertly crafted sushi against a backdrop of twinkling lights.
Must-Try: "Sakura Sour" - Japanese whiskey, Sakura blossom liqueur, yuzu, egg white, a taste of spring.
Average Spend: £25-£35 for cocktails, sharing plates £15-£20
Vibe: Modern Japanese elegance, breathtaking city views, perfect for a special occasion.
4. The Ned, London:
Where: 27 Poultry, London EC2R 8AJ
Description: Step back in time to Art Deco grandeur at this iconic rooftop bar.Enjoy classic cocktails and live music amidst stunning city views, creating a sophisticated and timeless atmosphere.
Must-Try: "Penicillin" - blended Scotch, honey, ginger, lemon, a classic with a twist.
Average Spend: £20-£30 for cocktails, bar snacks £8-£15
Vibe: Art Deco grandeur, sophisticated ambiance, live music adds to the buzz.
5. Savage Garden, DoubleTree by Hilton, London:
Where: 7 Pepys St, London EC3N 4AF
Description: Lush greenery meets vibrant cityscapes at this stylish rooftop retreat.Savor innovative cocktails and globally inspired small plates with mesmerizing views of Tower Bridge.
Must-Try: "Smoked Negroni" - mezcal, Campari, Carpano Bianco, smoked with applewood, a unique twist on the classic.
Average Spend: £15-£25 for cocktails, small plates £8-£12
Vibe: Lush greenery, vibrant and stylish, stunning Tower Bridge views.
6. SUSHISAMBA, Heron Tower:
Where: 110 Bishopsgate, London EC2N 4AY
Description: Ascend to new heights of luxury at this vibrant rooftop bar boasting 360-degree city views. Savor Japanese, Brazilian, and Peruvian-inspired cocktails and innovative dishes, creating a sensory journey against a breathtaking backdrop.
Must-Try: "Nikkei Spritz" - sake, Aperol, grapefruit, soda water, a refreshing fusion.
Average Spend: £30-£40 for cocktails, sushi and robata dishes vary
Vibe: Luxurious and vibrant, panoramic city views, live DJs and dancers create a festive atmosphere.
7. The Rooftop, Trafalgar Hotel, Trafalgar Square, London
Where: Trafalgar Square, London WC2N 5DN
Description: History meets elegance at this iconic rooftop bar offering classic cocktails and breathtaking views of Nelson's Column and Trafalgar Square. Perfect for a sophisticated afternoon tea or an evening under the stars.
Must-Try: "English Garden Sour" - gin, lavender, cucumber, egg white, a light and floral delight.
Average Spend: £18-£25 for cocktails, afternoon tea starts at £45
Vibe: Classic elegance, timeless charm, iconic views.
8. Skylight Rooftop Bar, Tobacco Dock, London:
Where: Tobacco Dock, Pennington St. Car Park Entrance, St Katharine's & Wapping, London E1W 2SF.
Description: Skylight Rooftop Bar offers a vibrant and lively atmosphere atop Tobacco Dock in East London. Set against the backdrop of the city skyline, Skylight features an expansive rooftop space transformed into a social hub, complete with bars, street food stalls, and plenty of games like croquet and petanque. Whether you're enjoying a drink with friends or taking part in one of the many activities, Skylight provides a memorable rooftop experience.
Must-Try: Try their signature cocktail, the "Skylight Spritz," a refreshing blend of prosecco, Aperol, and soda, perfect for sipping while enjoying the panoramic views.
Average Spend: Prices for drinks and food vary, but expect to spend around £8-£12 for cocktails and £10-£15 for street food dishes.
Vibe: Skylight Rooftop Bar offers a relaxed and casual vibe, ideal for socializing and enjoying the outdoors. With its eclectic mix of entertainment options and stunning views, Skylight is a popular destination for locals and visitors alike seeking a unique rooftop experience in London.
9. Jin Bo Law Skybar:
Where: 14th Floor, Dorsett City Hotel, 9 Aldgate High Street, London EC3N 1AH
Description: Jin Bo Law is an elegant sky bar located on the 14th floor of the Dorsett City Hotel. Offering stunning views of the London skyline, this sophisticated venue blends contemporary style with Eastern influences, providing a luxurious setting for enjoying expertly crafted cocktails.
Must-Try: Don't miss the signature "Jin Bo Sour," a delightful concoction featuring Asian pear-infused bourbon, lemon juice, honey, and egg white.
Average Spend: Cocktails typically range from £12 to £16, while sharing plates start at £8.
Vibe: With its sleek and stylish decor, Jin Bo Law exudes an upscale ambiance perfect for both intimate gatherings and celebratory evenings. Enjoy the breathtaking views of London while sipping on exquisite cocktails crafted by skilled mixologists
10. Bokan, Novotel, Canary Wharf:
Where: Bokan is located on the 37th, 38th, and 39th floors of Novotel Canary Wharf, 40 Marsh Wall, London E14 9TP.
Description: Bokan offers a unique dining experience with three levels of culinary delight, including a restaurant, bar, and rooftop terrace. Situated atop Novotel Canary Wharf, Bokan boasts panoramic views of London's skyline and the River Thames, providing a breathtaking backdrop for enjoying contemporary European cuisine and expertly crafted cocktails.
Must-Try: Indulge in the "Bokan Sling," a refreshing twist on the classic Singapore Sling, featuring gin, cherry liqueur, Benedictine, pineapple, and lemon.
Average Spend: Prices vary depending on the menu selection. Expect to spend approximately £40-£60 per person for a three-course meal, excluding drinks.
Vibe: Bokan offers a chic and sophisticated atmosphere with modern decor and floor-to-ceiling windows that offer unparalleled views of London. Whether you're dining in the restaurant, sipping cocktails at the bar, or enjoying the outdoor terrace, Bokan provides an unforgettable experience with its blend of culinary excellence and stunning vistas.
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