With bars and restaurants now open for alfresco dining, what better way to spend a bank holiday weekend than sitting back, soaking up the atmosphere, and enjoying a tipple or two? But with so many bars in London to choose from, how do you decide which one(s) to visit? Don’t worry, we’ve done the hard work for you and drawn up our 8 favourite rooftop bars. You’re welcome!
Madison
This award-winning rooftop bar is one of the most spacious in London. Madison offers tapas-style dishes, larger bites and a cocktail menu to die for, as well as incredible views of St Pauls Cathedral and the surrounding skyline.
Although one of the pricier bars in London, there’s not an age restriction or dress code. Madison also hosts an array of day and night parties, so be sure to check their website if you’re looking for something more than a quiet drink.
Alto by San Carlo
Did you know Selfridge’s has a secret Italian-style restaurant and bar on its rooftop? Well, you do now!
Set high above the hustle and bustle of Oxford Street, guests can escape the city and enjoy drinks at the bar on the alfresco terrace. With it’s very own lift to take you up to the bar hidden away in the department store, it’s one of London’s hottest secret destinations.
The restaurant offers a range of signature cocktails and small plates of Italian food. Oh, and with a roof that pulls out above you, you can guarantee a good time whatever the weather.
Bussey Rooftop Bar
Two words – pizza + cocktails. With a newly vamped menu, Bussey is one of the coolest rooftop bars in London. Described as a ‘tropical oasis’, the trendy bar is covered in fuchsia pink plants and amazing greenery.
Oh, and aside from being located high in the heart of Peckham, the bar donates every pizza sold to the homeless. So, what are you waiting for? Get your table booked and pizza ordered now!
Coq D’Argent
Bringing French flare to England’s capital. Coq D’Argent is a tranquil terrace overlooking St Paul’s Cathedral, Mansion House and the Bank of England. The stunning rooftop garden brings greenery to London’s skyline is the most charming way. Open to over 21s, Coq D’Argent is known to be busier in the evenings and seating for drinks is available of a first come, first served basis.
Once summer has drawn to a close, the rooftop bar becomes a cosy retreat from the bitter chill with blankets and heat lamps.
The Culpeper
Step away from the city streets and visit the working-farm rooftop of The Culpeper. Located in Brick Lane, the traditional pub utilises it rooftop space to assist the kitchen below. Sit amongst nature, herbs and greenhouses for a stark contrast to other rooftop bars.
Indulge in hearty food and pick a beverage from the unique herbal cocktail list. The Culpeper is affordable and open to over 18s.
Sushi Samba
Boasting two outdoor terraces and two restaurants, Sushi Samba is perfect for those looking to explore a range of cuisines and culture. Menus offer Japanese, Brazilian and Peruvian dishes as well as signature cocktails.
Located in Liverpool Street, Sushi Samba is on the pricey side and is open to over 18s only. The views of London’s skyline make this the perfect location for a romantic dinner, especially as the sun begins to set and London lights up for the night ahead.
Radio Rooftop
One of the newest additions to London’s rooftop bar collection. Radio Rooftop is a tourist dream. Snap pictures of iconic landmarks from above including; Tower Bridge, Covent Garden, the London Eye, Big Ben, The Shard and St Paul’s Cathedral.
Choose from an array of cocktails and champagne and soak in the incredible atmosphere. Radio Rooftop is open to over 21’s after 5pm and unlike most bars in London this modern establishment allows fashion-branded trainers to be worn.
Vagabond Northcote Road
Cute, cosy and intimate. Vagabond is adorned with fairly lights, cushions and greenery and offers a peaceful escape from the bustle of city life. The wine list may take a while to get through with over 100 choices and tapas-style dishes are served daily.
Located in Battersea this affordable rooftop bar is perfect for relaxed summer evenings.
Remember, if you’re travelling to London for the weekend, it’s probably worth investing in a UK-specific or staycation travel insurance policy – especially given all the uncertainty we’ve experienced in the last 12 months. The reason we say this is because should you need to cancel your trip and your accommodation be non-refundable, you might be able to claim these costs back.
Some ‘staycation’ policies also include cover for reasons related to Covid-19. For example, some policies will cover travellers to cancel their trip if anyone named on the policy catches Covid-19 before their trip and, as a result, has to isolate. Often, they also include a benefit if travellers fall ill Covid-19 during their trip and miss out on their holiday due to being confined to their accommodation. To find out more about how a staycation policy can help to protect your getaway, click here.
