If you’ve read my blog before, you know that I love a good cocktail bar. And now with the sun creeping out in London, it’s the perfect time to explore some of the fantastic rooftop bars that London has to offer.
#1 Madison
The Madison Rooftop bar tops my list for many reasons. And whilst the rooftop view is usually the one to beat, their recent cocktail menu is perfect for the warmer weather. Inspired by the exotic Tiki theme, their cocktails take an interesting twist on the usual Tiki classics.
Introducing cocktails such as ‘Daikiki’; which features an almond-infused Havana rum, lime juice and citrus bitters. For something a bit stronger, check out the zombie-inspired ‘Walking Dead’ cocktail – a perfect balance of Zacapa rum, orange and grapefruit bitters, spiced syrup and fresh passion fruit. But be warned – too many of these and you will end up feeling like the walking dead!
And my ultimate favourite, the ‘JVD Fashioned’. A tasty Tiki twist on the traditional old fashion, this cocktail consists of Makers Mark, washed coconut, homemade pineapple syrup and orange and cherry bitters. Delish!
Aside from the fantastic cocktails, you’ll also get to enjoy a glorious view of London’s skyline. Set behind a backdrop of St Paul’s, you have a great panoramic view of London in all it’s beauty. Not forgetting the resident DJ who will keep the vibe going until you’re ready to head home. So make sure to enjoy a cocktail or two while soaking up the sun on this perfect rooftop bar this Spring!
Location: St. Paul’s
Website: www.madisonlondon.net
Highlights: The fantastic view and cocktail menu
Price: £££
#2 Sushi Samba
Looking at the Sushi Samba building, you would think it was simply an office in the city. But a short (and very fast) elevator ride later, you find yourself on the rooftop of one of the funkiest bars’ in London. The outside area features a gorgeous bar built around a tree and fire pits to keep you warm during the cooler evenings.
The menu is a fusion of Japanese, Brazilian and Peruvian. Featuring tasty sushi favourites as well as more ‘Samba’ inspired food including; lobster taquitos, ceviche/seviche and a range of snacks including plantain.
If you’re not up for going to the city, why not check out their new venue in the heart of Covent Garden?
Location: City (Liverpool Street) / Covent Garden
Website: https://sushisamba.com
Highlights: The interesting menu
Price: ££££
#3 Aqua
I’ve been to Aqua a few times now and it’s ideal location makes it perfect for any time of day. Whether you’re shopping in Oxford Street and want to take a break and chill with a glass of wine in the sun. Or an evening drink or two before or after dinner – it makes the perfect date venue.
A tad on the pricey side. The food menu is OK, but for the price I would have wanted better. However I can’t fault the bartenders. They know how to make a good cocktail! The view is limited due to it’s location but the sun more than makes up for it. And in the evening, the lighting gives it the perfect romantic mood.
Location: Oxford Street / Carnaby Street
Website: https://aquaspirit.co.uk
Highlights: They make a great Aperol spritz!
Price: ££££
#4 Radio Rooftop
The next bar on my list would be Radio Rooftop. Situated on The Strand, this bar features a 360 view of London. The outside bar area is quite spacious and has a lot of seating and standing area. The bar itself is connected to the ME London hotel, but is open to the public. They have a range of cocktails to suit anyone’s fancy and a decent bar snack menu.
They can be a bit strict here so ensure you have your ID if you do want to go. It might also be busy, so try to book ahead even if it’s just for drinks as they sometimes limit it to only reservations or hotel guests.
Location: Strand
Website: https://radiorooftop.com
Highlights: 360 London view
Price: £££
#5 The Lighterman
Set in Granary Square, just behind King’s Cross St. Pancras, this gastropub has an outdoor balcony area looking over the canal and square. It’s not so high up, so the views aren’t as great. But it gets great sun throughout most of the day, so you can be sure to enjoy your pint in the sun at this venue.
More of a pub, it’s perfect to enjoy a chilled out drink with friends on the weekend or after work. It’s also still relatively out of the way, so you can be a bit easier to find a space to sit outside.
Location: Granary Square / Kings Cross St. Pancras
Website: https://thelighterman.co.uk
Highlights: Good beer selection
Price: ££
So that makes my top 5 rooftop bars in London. Do you have any others to recommend? Want to know more about these bars? Let me know in the comments below.
I am going to London soon, and would love to check out some roof top bars. They look amazing!
These all sound like amazing places to go for a drink. I bet you can get some stunning views over the capital as well in these places while you enjoy time with friends.
What great timing for this post – with all the sunny weather we’ve had, I hope to spend a few days/evenings at a rooftop bar this year.
I’ve never actually been to a rooftop bar before, but I’d love to! Particularly in this warmer weather! The views all look incredible!!
I love a rooftop in the summer time, the Radio Rooftop is the only one I’ve been to – I’ll have to add the others to my list to visit this year x
Throwing my hat in for Sky Garden too – stunning views from there
I’ve never been to a rooftop bar I think I’d like to go to one for a meal or something I reckon if I was drinking on a roof it would freak me out a little x
Wow they are spectacular! I would love to visit any of these
I need to get me to some of these bars! The views are to die for x