14 Best Rooftop Bars in London You Must Visit in 2024

1. The Rooftop at St. James

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.

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.

2. Louie

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.

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.

3. Oxo Tower Brasserie & Bar

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.

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.

4. Aqua Kyoto

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.

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.

5. The Cross

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.

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.

6. Sparrow Italia

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.

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.

7. 12th Knot

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.

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.

8. Garden rooftop

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.

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.

9. Mercer Roof Terrace

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?

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.

10. Aviary

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.

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.

11. Wagtail

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.

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.

12. AMANO

‍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.

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!

13. The Patio

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.

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.

14. Cinnamon Kitchen

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.

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.