14 Best Rooftop Bars in London You Must Visit in 2024
![14 Best Rooftop Bars in London You Must Visit in 2024](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/63c60ad7b0ddf046c158ac5d/64f8483b5250893ee7f35a54_best-bars-shoreditch.jpg)
One thing's for sure: Londoners love a rooftop bar. From Covent Garden to Canary Wharf, London has so many views to offer, and what better way to watch the sun go down than We've put together our 14 favourite London rooftop bars and given you a brief all-you-need-to-know overview.
1. Mercer Roof Terrace
![mercer roof terrace](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/63c60ad7b0ddf046c158ac5d/66abbea832410d5752a95796_652d485fa02c7921b949f8ca_Mercer%2520Roof%2520Terrace.jpeg)
🥗Modern European 🗺️Vintry & Mercer Hotel 💸£50
Best of the menu:
Mercer Roof Terrace, a feature of the Vintry & Mercer Hotel, occupies a place at the top of our list not just because of its award-winning rooftop garden but because of its variety of options. You can choose between an al fresco dinner, bar snacks in a winter 'igloo,’ or simply a cocktail at the bar above the city lights.
From afternoon tea to three-course dinners, the wining and dining options are endless. Have a look at the Mercer menu here.
Location and view highlights
The floor-to-ceiling windows mean it's a season-proof venue (they also provide sheepskin blankets if it gets chilly).
The garden rooftop offers a spectacular view of Central London’s skyline. As backdrops go, you can't do much better. And if you need a bed for the night, book ahead at the hotel. What's not to love?
Best for
The Mercer Roof Terrace is best for when you want to try some new, funky cocktails.
That's not all—there's also a basement bar called Do Not Disturb (DND), if you're looking for retro glamour and 1920's New York vibe. Also available for private hire, Mercer is a classy place.
Heading to Shoreditch and looking for the trendiest spots around? Check out our list of the best rooftop bars in Shoreditch.
2.The Rooftop at St. James
![The Rooftop at St. James](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/63c60ad7b0ddf046c158ac5d/66aa9e913984af13ddf0d26c_66aa9d5c3984af13ddeff487_The%2520Rooftop%2520St.%2520James.jpeg)
🥗Modern European 🗺️ Trafalgar Hotel 💸 £50
Best of the menu
The Rooftop at St.James's expert chefs are masters at redefining classic meals from all around the world for a contemporary twist. They have a dish for just about every planet with mouthwatering main courses such as Smoky Aubergine and Grilled Seabass Fillet. You can’t go wrong with their Double Cheeseburger either.
Location and view highlights
The Rooftop at St. James is right above Trafalgar Square, putting it in the perfect position to give you beautiful views of the area, skyline, and famous landmarks like the House of Parliament and the London Eye.
Best for
The Rooftop at St.James is best for classy breakfasts, brunches, and lunches with panoramic views of Trafalgar Square.
🤩 Top tip! Book ahead with Ambl! It's a popular spot and you don't want to miss out.
3. Aviary Rooftop Restaurant and Bar
![aviary rooftop restaurant and bar](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/63c60ad7b0ddf046c158ac5d/66abbea832410d5752a95793_652d49919191a5d0532e7b4b_Aviary%2520Rooftop%2520Restaurant%2520and%2520Bar.jpeg)
🥗Modern European 🗺️ Royal London House 💸£55
Best of the menu
If you’re a foodie, you won't be disappointed. Aviary prides itself on using seasonal, local ingredients and focusing on British produce.
Their menus are pretty extensive: bottomless brunch is a feast-like event at Aviary with salads, bagels, charcuterie, pancakes and seafood on offer. The dinner options are just as impressive: oysters are just the beginning.
Check out Aviary's second-to-none menus here.
Location and view highlights
Head up to the 10th floor of the Montcalm Royal London House, and that's where you'll find Aviary. If you’re looking for a spot in trendy East London, this is a great choice. Aviary offers bottomless brunches, drinks, and dinner with the backdrop of London's city skyline.
Best for
The Aviary offers a unique dining experience with their Nordic Night Igloos, letting you watch the stars and sip on cocktails in comfort.
4. Wagtail Rooftop Bar
![wagtail rooftop bar](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/63c60ad7b0ddf046c158ac5d/652d4a18add1c06706bb24c3_ip_kRMSVFd4-1ME44KTxe6zXDSpBJTfLhZcRfOyEWjtQRc4nkvCogV8pyZQLJh1wdpL9z9EozJbd7eVFtIUOqoWYmQFtog1ogwenlp54DzHqG4jD7CYTrWsvQLZOj-sHXyzxHo-_NNRsGwL6ZHqstcc.png)
🥗British 🗺️ King William St. 💸£30
Best of the menu
Wagtail might be on the pricier end of the scale, but one glance at the menu might be enough to persuade you. From beef carpaccio to burrata, Wagtail offers the best of modern British cooking. If you're not quite convinced, have a look at the drinks menu. Carefully curated by a team of mixologists, wine merchants, and local distilleries, it ticks every single box.
You can look through Wagtail's mouth-watering menu here.
Location and view highlights
If you're looking for a 360-degree view of iconic London landmarks (The Gherkin, The Shard, Tower Bridge, St Paul's being just a few of them), Wagtail is a top choice. It sits on top of a 1920s building in the Square Mile, offering luxury dining and a 10th-floor rooftop bar. It's elegant, it's sophisticated, it's a dress-to-impress situation with a smart dress code.
Best for
Go to the Wagtail when you want to enjoy a night out in one of London’s classiest restaurants.
Cocktails you’re after? Here’s an updated list of the best cocktail bars in London.
5. Louie
![LOUIE](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/63c60ad7b0ddf046c158ac5d/66aa9e913984af13ddf0d235_66aa8d9bb517e2e9fa54577a_louie-london.jpeg)
🥗French and seafood 🗺️ West street 💸 £40
Best of the menu
Besides an exciting, lively vibe, Louie is especially famous for its extensive menu filled with French dishes and fresh seafood with a New Orleans twist. Think oysters, Monkfish Tail, New Orleans BBQ Lobster, and Stonebass Bouillabaisse.
Have a look at Louie’s amazing menu.
Location and view highlights
Louie’s Terrace in West Street is located right next to its alligator bar. Grab a drink and head outside in their lush green getaway to soak up the views of Covet Garden while listening to some live music.
Best for
Louie is best for when you want to enjoy seafood while listening to some of the best live entertainment London has to offer.
🤩 Top tip! Get your hands on 2-4-1 margaritas all day from Friday to Sunday! Seating 130 guests, it's wise to book ahead with Ambl to avoid disappointment.
6. AMANO Rooftop Bar
![amano rooftop bar](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/63c60ad7b0ddf046c158ac5d/652d4c4dacb642c2a27a47f0_p7N82B63Goc_a82aROm9l61oQwEzKyDuKwkn5YhYwAHfm3t2CrQId9Jr_WWQv9dbEONggojLqFIBACHgnsfU1B9z58Z1i30PT6nIT8w9NYj4Y6BWpTFFvoQe6mKQpyky78g0WyplsPvYRA3DYicF6mY.png)
🥗Mediterranean 🗺️ Drury House 💸£40
Best of the menu
With refreshing cocktails, local craft beer, and an extensive wine list on offer, it's a perfect post-work drinks location surrounded by some of London's trendiest spots. Make sure to visit at the weekend to catch one of the house DJs on the decks!
Check out AMANO's award-winning menu here.
Location and view highlights
AMANO is a rooftop restaurant on the seventh floor of the world-famous AMANO Covent Garden. It's a hit for Central London, offering a moody ambience with booths, cosy corners, and a classic garden rooftop with brilliant views of the city skyline.
Available as a private venue for up to 114 guests, it's a very versatile option, surrounded by plenty of transport links.
Best for
AMANO is the best rooftop bar for when you’re in the mood for some entertainment while enjoying your favourite meals.
Looking for a bar near of Soho? Check our Soho bars available for you last-minute reservation
7. Oxo Tower Brasserie & Bar
![](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/63c60ad7b0ddf046c158ac5d/66abbb311872ed1e5391c425_AD_4nXf1SO6AbTYQpJR80rC4i1DL-lmAZTt6nQfFFy1UcpdX0KNzl2Lb_Qv26txJqv4Yrts3aBetP0qjM45sZaTGhPO6DjB1772l8Cs58eUTdTcbS18Rd-YuWVdE9-maTcu6_vs-mdBT_VBuvmwfw_XApF__g6IS.jpeg)
🥗International 🗺️ Barge House street 💸£80
Best of the menu
The OXO bar makes delicious international meals from only the finest British products and ingredients. Their seasonal menu created by executive head chef Jeremy Bloor currently features dishes like Beef Fillet, Red mullet, and Aubergine. Pair your meal with one of their hand-picked wines and you have a night to remember.
Here’s Oxo’s menu to help you make your choice.
Location and view highlights
OXO is at the very top of the famous OXO tour and its position gives you some of the best views of the river Thames, St. Paul’s Cathedral, as well as a magnificent view of the London skyline.
Best for
OXO is perfect for celebrations and for anyone who enjoys fine dining with an unmatchable view.
8. Aqua Kyoto
![Aqua Kyoto](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/63c60ad7b0ddf046c158ac5d/66aa9e913984af13ddf0d291_66aa98f4247fcd62b4ae7428_Aqua%2520Kyoto.jpeg)
🥗 Japanese 🗺️ Regent Street Entrance 💸£40
Best of the menu
The Aqua Kyoto serves up plates so flavourful, that it's difficult to choose the best meals. Their award-winning chefs specialise in creating traditional Japanese meals with a bit of a contemporary twist. Some of their best meals include Wagyu sirloin, black garlic teriyaki & smoked aubergine miso (yes, that’s all one meal!), and Iberico Pork & Chicken Gyoza.
Here’s Aqua Kyoto’s a la carte dinner menu for an in-depth look.
Location and view highlights
Perched above the Regent Street Entrance, Aqua Kyoto boasts a new, partially heated and covered Rooftop terrace. When it comes to the view itself, Aqua Kyoto lets you soak up the scene of London’s west end, giving you clear views of the London skyline.
Best for
The Aqua Kyoto offers some of the best Asian flavours London has to offer.
Looking for the best local spots in East London? Here’s our guide to the best bars in Shoreditch.
9. The Cross London
![the cross](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/63c60ad7b0ddf046c158ac5d/66aa9e913984af13ddf0d274_66aa932ba14818ef37e07457_THE%2520CROSS.jpeg)
🥗 Mediterranean 🗺️Wharfdale road 💸£50
Best of the menu
The Cross London has a bar, restaurant, club, and rooftop terrace. Their seasonal menu reimagines Mediterranean classics such as Croquetas Bravas, Imam Bayildi, and Scallops, along with a range of grazing and small plates.
Check it out on The Cross’ spring and summer menu.
Location and view highlights
The Cross’ rooftop terrace gives you gorgeous views of King’s Cross and London’s skyline. It also comes with its own DJ booth, and bar, and is available for private events.
Best for
The Cross is best for nights out when you want to dance at a club (available in their basement), and enjoy fine-dining while soaking up the best views in London.
10. Sparrow Italia
![sparrow italia](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/63c60ad7b0ddf046c158ac5d/66aa9e913984af13ddf0d238_66aa8b60cf6381c91dd2d206_SPARROW%2520ITALIA.jpeg)
🥗 Mediterranean 🗺️ Avery Row 💸£100
Best of the menu
Sparrow Italia is famous for its classic Italian meals, making it a go-to for Mediterranean-loving foodies. Some of its mouthwatering meals include dishes like Ahi Tuna Tartare, Spicy Rigatoni, and Grilled Branzino. Make sure to combine your meal with one of their amazing wines for the complete Italian experience.
Here’s Sparrow Italia's lunch and dinner menu.
Location and view highlights
Located in Mayfair Sparrow Italia, there is a luxurious terrace known as the Sparrow’s Nest, where you can soak up the views of the neighbourhood and dine in decadence.
Best for
Sparrow Italia is the best place to go if you enjoy classic Italian cuisine above all else.
11. The Patio London
![the patio london](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/63c60ad7b0ddf046c158ac5d/66abc11f323a62e3a59f7e46_66abbef76828fd687842e8d0_the%2520patio.jpeg)
🥗 African 🗺️ Smithfield Street 💸£40
Best of the menu
Head on over to the Patio London to experience the most vibrant flavours Africa has to offer. This five-story restaurant offers innovative takes on authentic African cuisine with dishes like Plantain and Lentil Lasagne, Egusi Soup, and Grilled Pineapple with Coconut Sorbet.
Hooked already? Feast your eyes on The Patio’s dinner menu.
Location and view highlights
The rooftop terrace, also known as the OATT, lets you catch views of the Smithfield area while you are vibing at the patio’s live entertainment performances.Best for
The Patio is best for enjoying R&B, soul, and live jazz music while enjoying West African cuisine.
12. Cinnamon Kitchen
![cinnamon kitchen](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/63c60ad7b0ddf046c158ac5d/66abc11f323a62e3a59f7e5d_66abbf82939827f5abed335b_cinnamon.jpeg)
🥗 Indian 🗺️ Devonshire Square 💸£30
Best of the menu
If you’re always out looking for the best Indian cuisine on offer, then step into the Cinnamon kitchen—you won’t be disappointed. They serve authentic, spicy, and delicious dishes such as Seared Aubergine Steak and Banana Leaf Wrapped Seabeam.
Here’s the Cinnamon Kitchen’s a la carte menu.
Location and view highlights
The Cinnamon Square is located in Devonshire Square with an all-weather terrace for al fresco eating boasting a view of both the neighbourhood and London’s iconic skyline.
Best for
The Cinnamon Kitchen is best for Indian food lovers who want a good view during their dining experience.
13. 12th Knot
![12th Knot](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/63c60ad7b0ddf046c158ac5d/66abbe523ce73ca6111c9185_AD_4nXelrW4PBrNLqIYiyVAAzX-DjaYkRzVPAIAgU-j_iDuoWEnjc93f2x_OrS3UveFyWU1iDTizkd-jMwk_X2wH8IMisgJ7g4VyVaJf3X9m6G7XyJS5RFLT6-Gn-RO2W6iaH18ewbJuJX1YIqe-5pSIklUpIzbf.jpeg)
🥗Modern European and North American 🗺️ Sea Containers 💸£70
Best of the menu
If you like North American-inspired dishes with a bit of British quirkiness, then head on over to the 12th Knot. This fine-dining eatery features classy starters like Exmoor Caviar and delicious mains such as Wild Mushroom Pot Pie.
Here’s their amazing dinner menu.
Location and view highlights
Located in the iconic Sea Containers, the 12th Knot has a glass box design, giving you 360 views of the London iconic skyline and all across the River Thames.
Best for
The 12th Knot is best for fine-dining while marvelling at London’s famous landmarks from their classy yet laid-back terrace.
14. The Garden rooftop 10th floor
![The Garden rooftop 10th floor](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/63c60ad7b0ddf046c158ac5d/66abc11f323a62e3a59f7e43_66abc0dafc3e9fa93cefa098_garden%2520rooftop.jpeg)
🥗Mediterranean 🗺️ Charing Cross Road 💸£60
Best of the menu
The Garden Rooftop specialises in serving up classic Italian meals, small plates, and hand-crafted cocktails in their chic yet cosy restaurant. Some of their signature meals include small plates like Miso Padron Peppers and Grilled Chicken and Pesto Tagliatelle.
Have a look at some of The Garden Rooftop’s other options on their food menu.
Location and view highlights
Located on the 10th floor of the Assembly Hall in the Heart of the West End, the Garden Rooftop gives you panoramic views of the London skyline. Their terrace also features live music every Friday and Saturday night.
Best for
The Garden Rooftop is best for when you want to indulge in bottomless brunch while soaking up the views of London’s West End.
Soak up the skyline while dining on your favourite meals
If you’re looking for a change from hitting up Frank's Cafe, sitting at the top of a multi-storey car park in South London, or Radio Rooftop isn’t doing it for you anymore, consider our options. However, you're choosing to combine wining and dining with London's skyline, and with Ambl, you can choose what's right for you.
Whether you’re planning a celebration in advance or you’re a notorious non-planner, Ambl can help you out. Ambl is making reservations easy, one venue at a time. Ambl can help ensure you’ve got a spot on London’s hottest rooftops—even on those sunny days that bring all of London to their nearest rooftop bar.
Rooftops bars in London FAQs
What is the average cost of a rooftop bar in London?
Cocktails in a London rooftop bar can range between £8-£15. If you're planning dinner, you can expect to pay at least £30 a head, excluding drinks.
What is the dress code for rooftop bars in London?
The dress code for rooftop bars in London tends to be smart casual. If in doubt, check the venue’s website for more details.
What are the best rooftop bars in London to book right now?
While there's strong competition with excellent options all around the city, the best rooftop bars to book in London right now are Cavo, The Lucky Club, and Wagtail.