The 10 Best Rooftop Bars in London in 2025
Is there any greater feeling than escaping the city’s relentless hustle by ascending towards the clouds? We think not. As the first hint of spring blossoms or the long, hazy days of summer roll in, Londoners collectively get the same idea: find a rooftop, grab a drink, and soak it all in. The city's skyline, a chaotic yet beautiful tapestry of historic spires and glittering new-age giants, is a sight to behold, and it’s a view that’s always best enjoyed with a perfectly mixed cocktail in hand. In 2025, the rooftop bar scene has never been more vibrant, more diverse, or more downright spectacular.
Gone are the days when a few plastic chairs on a flat roof would suffice. Today’s rooftop bars are destinations in their own right—meticulously designed oases offering everything from world-class mixology and gourmet street food to live DJ sets and even open-air cinemas. It's a competitive world up there in the clouds. But fear not, we've done the hard work for you. We’ve sipped the spritzes, judged the views, and assessed the vibes to bring you the definitive list of London's sky-high watering holes. Whether you’re after a laid-back spot for a post-work pint or a glamorous setting to seriously impress a date, this is your ultimate guide. So, leave the tube map behind, and let's head for the heavens.
1. London Bridge Rooftop
Let’s be honest, when it comes to location, it simply doesn’t get better than this. Tucked away on the sixth floor of a building you’ve probably walked past a thousand times, London Bridge Rooftop is the undisputed champion of 2025 for its sheer, unadulterated fun and a view that will make your jaw drop. You’re not just looking at the skyline here; you’re in it. The Shard looms over you like a friendly glass giant, so close you feel like you could reach out and touch it.
The vibe is pure, unpretentious joy. Forget stuffy dress codes and hushed tones; this is a place of laughter, brightly coloured décor, and a genuine party atmosphere. The team behind it has perfected the art of the urban hideaway. Last summer, I was here with a friend who was visiting the city for the first time, and as the sun set behind the skyline, painting everything orange and purple, he just turned to me and said, "Okay, now I get London." That’s the power of this place. The drinks menu is refreshingly straightforward—think top-notch G&Ts, cold beers, and classic cocktails done right. Plus, their rotating selection of street food vendors means there’s always something new and delicious to snack on. A key takeaway is its accessibility; for a prime-location spot, it remains surprisingly relaxed. Just be sure to book—this is one secret that’s well and truly out.
2. Seabird, Southwark
Ready to be whisked away to the Mediterranean coast? Head up to the 14th floor of The Hoxton, Southwark, and you'll find Seabird. This place is a stunner. With what they claim is London’s longest oyster list, it’s a seafood lover’s paradise. But even if you’re not into oysters, the panoramic views stretching across the Thames, the Houses of Parliament, and the London Eye are more than enough to captivate you. The décor is all breezy pastels, lush greenery, and marble-topped tables, creating a chic, holiday-like atmosphere. It’s the kind of place you book for a special occasion. The cocktail list is inventive and Spanish-inspired—try the ‘Pelican Club’ for a sophisticated, fruity kick. It’s certainly on the pricier side, but for a slice of sun-drenched escapism, it’s worth every penny.
3. Frank's Cafe, Peckham
A true London institution. Frank’s Cafe is the OG of no-frills rooftop bars and a rite of passage for any self-respecting Londoner. Perched atop a multi-storey car park in Peckham, it’s only open during the summer months, a fact that adds to its almost mythical status. Getting there is part of the experience: a journey up the now-iconic, bubblegum-pink staircase. Once you emerge, you’re greeted with a vast, open space and one of the most incredible, uninterrupted panoramic views of the entire city. It’s raw, it’s concrete, and it’s utterly brilliant. The drinks are simple—mostly Campari-based cocktails, beers, and wines—and the vibe is effortlessly cool. It’s a creative, buzzing hub where you'll see everyone from art students to families. What's not to love?
4. Radio Rooftop, The Strand
If you’re looking to dial up the glamour, Radio Rooftop is your spot. Located on the 10th floor of the ME London hotel, this bar oozes sophistication. The dress code is chic, the clientele is beautiful, and the views are absolutely breathtaking. With vistas stretching from the curve of the Thames at Somerset House all the way to The Shard and Canary Wharf in the east, you get a real 360-degree sense of the city’s scale. The cocktails are expertly crafted and come with a price tag to match, but this is a place for celebrating. The sleek white sofas and glowing bar create a vibe that feels more Ibiza than London—especially when the resident DJs start their sets as evening falls. Here’s a tip: book a spot for sunset. You won’t regret it.
5. Netil 360, Hackney
For a taste of East London’s laid-back cool, make your way to Netil 360. This is the antithesis of the super-luxe hotel bars. It’s a sprawling, unpretentious rooftop space where you’re more likely to find people lounging on artificial grass or in wooden booths than perched on velvet stools. The vibe is communal, friendly, and deeply relaxed. It feels less like a bar and more like the best backyard party you’ve ever been to—only with a killer skyline view that includes the Gherkin and the Walkie-Talkie. They have their own on-site brewery, Netil House IPA, and serve up simple but effective cocktails. It's the perfect place to while away a sunny Saturday afternoon with a group of friends.
6. The Rooftop at The Standard, King's Cross
Popping up out of the Brutalist former Camden Town Hall Annex is The Standard hotel, and its rooftop is a riot of colour and fun. Accessed via a funky red ‘pill-shaped’ exterior lift, this rooftop offers a unique perspective of the city. Instead of the typical Thames-side views, you get a glorious, almost cinematic look over the gothic grandeur of St Pancras station. It feels very metropolitan. The vibe is playful and trendy, with astroturf, jaunty yellow seating, and a cocktail menu that doesn't take itself too seriously. They often have guest chefs taking over the food truck, so there’s always something interesting to try. It’s the ideal spot for a pre-or-post Eurostar drink, giving you one last incredible look at London.
7. Jin Bo Law, Aldgate
Looking for a hidden gem with a serious dose of opulence? Head to the 14th floor of the Dorsett City Hotel. Jin Bo Law is a sleek, stylish bar with an Asian-inspired theme and an incredible view of the City’s most famous architectural icons. The Gherkin, the Cheesegrater, and Tower Bridge are all perfectly framed from its elegant terrace. The interior is just as impressive, with a stunning marble bar as its centrepiece. The cocktail list is one of the most inventive in London, featuring unique ingredients and flavour combinations that will surprise and delight you. As the head mixologist once put it, "We don't just make drinks; we create experiences in a glass." This is the perfect spot for a sophisticated date night.
8. Bussey Rooftop Bar, Peckham
Another Peckham favourite, but with a character all its own. Bussey Rooftop Bar offers a lush, tropical-themed escape with 360-degree views that are just as impressive as its neighbour, Frank’s. What sets Bussey apart is its rich cultural programming. It shares its space with the Rooftop Film Club, making it arguably the best place in the city to catch a movie under the stars. The atmosphere is vibrant and colourful, decked out with plants and fairy lights. The drinks are reasonably priced, and the pizza is consistently delicious. It’s a hub of creative energy that perfectly captures the spirit of South London.
9. Sabine Rooftop Bar, St. Paul's
Do you want a view that will genuinely take your breath away? Sabine is your answer. Located near St. Paul's Cathedral, its main terrace offers a view of the cathedral’s iconic dome that is so close, so detailed, and so overwhelmingly beautiful, it almost feels unreal. You can practically count the details on Christopher Wren’s masterpiece. This botanical-themed rooftop is a surprisingly tranquil garden oasis in the heart of the bustling City of London. With a retractable roof, it’s a reliable all-weather option, serving up elegant cocktails and tasty bar bites. It’s a place that reminds you of the sheer, timeless beauty of London’s history.
10. Mercer Roof Terrace, Vintry
For understated elegance and a truly sophisticated experience, Mercer Roof Terrace is a must-visit. Sitting atop the Vintry & Mercer hotel, this spot offers a stunning dual-aspect view, with St. Paul’s Cathedral on one side and The Shard on the other. It’s a refined space, with comfortable seating, heaters for chilly evenings, and impeccable service. The menu focuses on the best of British ingredients, both in its food and its drinks. It’s less of a party spot and more of a place for a long, leisurely dinner or a quiet, contemplative drink as you watch the city lights twinkle on below. It’s a class act, through and through.
So there you have it. From the buzzing, beer-fuelled party at London Bridge to the serene, seafood-scented elegance of Seabird, London's rooftop scene in 2025 is a glorious pick-and-mix of options. Each bar offers not just a drink, but a unique perspective on this sprawling, magnificent city we call home. These sky-high sanctuaries provide a moment of pause, a chance to rise above the fray and see the capital in all its chaotic glory. So what are you waiting for? The lifts are waiting, and the views are calling. Choose your destination, book a table, and get ready to toast to London from the top. You’ve earned it.