There’s no better way to enjoy summer than on a rooftop terrace. Here’s our pick of the best bars across the city where you can take in those skyline views
STK, Stratford
For an afternoon filled with panoramic skyline views accompanied by DJ sets and entertainment, STK Stratford is the place to be this summer. Every Saturday from 11.30am to 3pm, the steakhouse and bar will be offering a three-course brunch menu for just £49 per person, with bottomless packages starting from an additional £28 each. From California rolls and pumpkin ravioli to roasted salmon and short ribs, the Vibe Brunch menu offers a lot more than just steak. And if you haven’t tried STK’s infamous mini sliders, worry not: they’re on the menu, too. If you’re looking for good tunes, great food and a gorgeous view, STK is always a stellar choice.
Coq d’Argent, Bank
This gorgeous rooftop restaurant is one of London’s most iconic. Offering a sophisticated al fresco dining experience with four terraces and a rooftop garden, Coq d’Argent provides a truly dreamy summer setting. Here, you can enjoy a menu of exquisite French cuisine, curated by executive head chef Damien Rigollet, while soaking up the urban charm of the capital. We all know that it tends to get chilly in England (even in August), but the restaurant is well prepared for the cold, with covered and heated terraces.
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12th Knot, Southbank
Located on top of London’s Sea Containers Hotel, 12th Knot is a a hip rooftop lounge serving high-concept bar bites and cocktails in a stylish setup with views across the Thames. Its open-plan décor puts the city skyline front and centre, while the bar itself boasts a range of gorgeous drinks, nibbles (such as mouth-watering seabass tacos) and DJ sets every Friday and Saturday evening, making it the perfect place for a pre-dinner cocktail or a relaxed-yet-stylish date night.
The Maine, Mayfair
The Maine Mayfair’s newly launched terrace is the perfect spot for mid-shopping refreshment, a lazy lunch or evening drinks. Directly off Bond Street and overlooking Medici Courtyard, this tranquil spot is enveloped by foliage, immediately transporting you away from the hustle and bustle of the city. With bamboo chairs, colourful cushions and banquette seating, this welcoming oasis provides a slice of sun-drenched respite from London life (during those few days of heat in the city).
The Nest, Marylebone
Located on the 16th floor of Treehouse Hotel London, The Nest is a sophisticated and lively bar that’s ideal for weekend outings or after-work drinks in summer. Offering incredible 360-degree views of the city, it boasts hanging plants, raffia light fixtures and gorgeous reclaimed wood, making it a perfect spot for a photo or two. The outdoor terrace wraps around the entire bar and is decked out with loungers and even a tandem swing set. The best part? DJs keep the party going from the afternoon well into the evening.
The Standard, King’s Cross
If you’re looking for a terrace that’s effortlessly cool, there’s no better place than The Standard. The hotel itself has several unique bars that offer indulgent cocktails and bustling atmospheres, but the rooftop is really where your sunset soiree plans should be. Recently reopened, it offers fabulous views, fun drinks and great music. This stylish spot has a more casual atmosphere than some of the others on this list, but it’s coupled with a huge helping of good vibes.
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PocketSquare Skyline Bar & Terrace, East London
If your evening adventures are taking place in East London, be sure to head over to PocketSquare Skyline Bar & Terrace for your pre- or post-outing drinks. Located on the ninth floor of Hyatt Place London City East, it’s only a short stroll from Aldgate East station, with Shoreditch, Brick Lane and Spitalfields all on the doorstep. Inventive cocktails are the vibe here, with a menu inspired by London’s diverse history and cultures — with an East London twist, of course.
Glasshouse Rooftop, Holborn
Despite being another gorgeous rooftop located on the top of a hotel, Glasshouse is by no means regular. This exclusive 10th-floor bar features bold decor and statement neon artwork, as well as a retracting roof so you can soak up the sun — when it does come out — and a soundtrack of laid-back electronic beats. Once evening comes, Glasshouse takes on a relaxed ambiance and provides the perfect backdrop for enjoying creative cocktails under the stars.
The Mercer Roof Terrace, St Paul’s
If food is just as important to you as views, you can’t go wrong with Vintry & Mercer’s rooftop terrace. Here, you can dine al fresco in the heart of the city, delighting in the restaurant’s British-led menu, with highlights including charcoal-grilled beef, Cornish crab cake and roasted Chalk Stream trout. To drink, choose from an extensive wine selection that includes English sparkling or dive into the inventive cocktail list (our favourite is the banana espresso martini).
Bokan 39, Canary Wharf
You’ll find Bōkan’s rooftop bar and terrace in the heart of Canary Wharf, 39 floors up. Offering a 360-degree view across the capital’s skyline, it’s the ultimate place to relax after work and makes a great date-night spot, too. Here, you can sit back and relax with a cocktail, admire iconic landmarks as darkness falls and truly make the most of your summer nights.
Read more: 8 of our favourite places to get your matcha fix in London
Alto by San Carlo, Oxford Street
Perched on top of Selfridges, Alto by San Carlo is an emblem of summer. This enchanting foliage-laden rooftop space offers delectable Italian-inspired dishes that will transport you to the Mediterranean. Those bustling city streets below will truly feel miles away. Whether you’re looking for respite from your shopping or simply a place to indulge in some food, Alto is a perfect choice. The new summer menu is bursting with beautifully presented plates alongside refreshing spritzes, wines and cocktails.
The Hari, Belgravia
In collaboration with Maison Ruinart, The Hari has unveiled its gorgeous new terrace, which feels like an ethereal secret garden amid London’s bustling city streets. Brimming with verdant greenery and blooming orchids, the space has been designed to help city dwellers embrace luxury and relaxation. The idyllic terrace is accompanied by fruity tipples and creative cocktails (I’d recommend the Belgravia Secret Garden ) and delightful light bites and nibbles – just order the mini sliders, calamari and arancini and see for yourself. thehari.com
