Whether you live in London and want to try a new place for your next Friday happy hour, or you're looking to rest your feet at the end of a day exploring the city, you should definitely consider a rooftop bar.
Get unique views of the city that you can't find elsewhere, watch the sunset, and be present in this magnificent city as you gaze down at the street below. At some of these bars, you'll get the unique flavor of a neighborhood and walk out feeling like a local.
London
Our Picks for the Top 6 Rooftop Bars In London
1. Frank’s Cafe
In the trendy area of Peckham, you can find Frank’s Cafe on top of a parking lot. This rustic and grungy bar is only open in the summer months, making its opening a sign of warm weather to come. An incredible spot as the sun sets, Frank’s can be hoppin’ and boppin’ on sunny days. Get your Frank’s cocktails while they’re hot (or on ice), and go early to avoid a wait!
Address: Level 10 Peckham Multi-Storey Car Park, 95a Rye Lane, London
2. Culpeper Roof Garden
A London pub with a rooftop garden, Culpeper is decked out with greenery. With herbs, plants and vegetables, the greenhouse-like rooftop is open in the summer. Making use of their rooftop space, Culpeper aims to help the environment — as well as conquering the perfect drink. Find plants grown on the very garden you’re inhabiting repurposed as garnishes or ingredients in your beverages. Tequila and tomatoes — what else could you need.
Address: 40 Commercial St, London
3. Shoreditch Boxpark
The prize of Shoreditch is Boxpark, residing on top of shipping containers — but with a rooftop vibe. Enjoy the warmer London days by having drinks outside with half of Shoreditch. Wandering in and out of the bars are common, as everyone wants to explore the different rooms. With all kinds of barbecues, live music, and art — Boxpark is the place to be and be seen. Make sure you’re wearing your most fashionable threads, as Shoreditch is packed with the young and trendy.
Address: 2-10 Bethnal Green Rd, London
4. Dalston Roof Park
Climb a few flights up to Dalston Roof Park, and get ready for a graffiti-infused artsy bar. With plants hanging as decoration, artificial grass, and a covered bar area, the London summer is in full swing no matter the weather. Bean bags and deck chairs are perfect for lounging while you sip on drinks and watch the views. Different food stalls pop-up over the months, and you can even go to yoga events when the bar isn’t in session!
Address: Print House, 18 Ashwin St, London
5. Prince of Wales
Get ready for some royally outrageous events at Brixton’s Prince of Wales. Somewhat like a play park for adults, the many different rooms and rooftop areas give you much to explore. With a heavy festival vibe, hundreds of Londoners can be found hanging out on the artificial grass, sipping drinks or dancing to reggae. With sizzling burgers to line your stomach, the dancing goes from day to night — watch the sun set from the rooftop! Grungy dance rooms give you a more traditional club option downstairs.
Address: 467 Brixton Rd, London
Image credit: CN Traveler
6. Big Chill House
If you have some time near King’s Cross or St Pancras, stop off for a well-deserved drink at the Big Chill House. With a basement bar and rooftop terrace, you can get your pitchers of cocktails — rain or shine. DJ nights are the best at Big Chill, bringing crowds of music lovers. Summer months leave the rooftop not-so chilly, but relaxing with funky festival vibes.
Address: 257-259 Pentonville Rd, London
London
This article was written by Clara Hudson.