This article was originally written at a pivotal moment for London’s hospitality scene, when rooftop bars and restaurants rose to the top. Their open-air, alfresco nature meant they were uniquely placed to comply with government social-distancing regulations, allowing the city to cautiously reconnect over food and drink.
While the circumstances were extraordinary, the reopening of these rooftops on 12 April 2021 marked a significant chapter in London hospitality history. That’s why this piece remains on my site today, as a snapshot of a time when rooftops became our sanctuaries. Sadly several of them have since had to close.
February 28th 2021: Who else is ready to get back out and on top! Spring has sprung and our Prime Minister’s roadmap is ready. Rooftop’s are taking centre stage! So the countdown to bubbles, cocktails & beer in the London sun has begun. Get your friends, family, loved ones as I bring you the first 12 rooftops bars who are ready to rumble! See you in the sky!
Aqua Kyoto
Where’s the rooftop? Oxford Street tube
Best for: A summer staple for the after work drinks (sob who else misses those!) For more: Click here
Boundary Project
Where’s the rooftop? Shoreditch
Best for: Nestled above the hotel this rooftop is all about summer vibes. For more: Click here
Chiringuito (since closed)
Where’s the rooftop? Bethnal Green
Best for: What it lacks it height it makes up for in tunes and plugging a gap for this area.
The Culpeper
Where’s the rooftop? Aldgate
Best for: If you love home grown food and a chill yet classy vibe this one is for you! For more: Click here
Dalston Rooftop (since closed)
Where’s the rooftop? Dalston
Best for: A rooftop with an edge – also part of a charity! So you basically doing good by going,
Forza Wine (since closed)
Where’s the rooftop? Peckham
Best for: One of the newest rooftops to the party but a great addition to an area that love a rooftop bar.
Madison
Where’s the rooftop? Bank
Best for: One of the classic boujee rooftops around with cocktails to match the view! For more: Click here
Pergola (Since closed)
Where’s the rooftop? Paddington
Best for: P stands for Party and Prosecco and Pergola brings it.
Queen of Hoxton
Where’s the rooftop? Liverpool Street
Best for: Usually home to themed rooftops – this is the ever changing and evolving rooftop, small but mighty! For more: Click here
Roof East
Where’s the rooftop? Stratford
Best for: The fun is here. Full of after work and weekend groups (6 for now!) – a range of activities on offer. For more: Click here
Skylight (Since Closed)
Where’s the rooftop? Wapping
Best for: Might feel a bit out of the way but this is a destination worth making your way to. This is all about the venue, views and vino!
The Lock Tavern
Where’s the Rooftop? Camden
Best for: If you are more a pub than bar type then this rooftop is for you. Full of fun and fizz! For more: Click here
