Just because you’re a parent doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a relaxing vino with a view or a rooftop cocktail catch up with friends! I’ve handpicked the best London rooftop bars that welcome children and there’s a surprising number of rooftop bars that cater to families. Whether you’re a parent longing for an afternoon catch-up with a mocktail in hand or, like me, the awesome auntie looking to treat the teens to a day of London fun, or even celebrating a special occasion like a 16th birthday with a memorable night out, I’ve got you covered. I’ve organized the options into three convenient categories: anytime access, daytime only, and select times, ensuring there’s something for every family’s schedule and preferences. Cheers to rooftop adventures with the whole crew!
London Rooftop Bars and Restaurants that allow children anytime
The rooftops listed below extend a warm welcome to children of any age, any time of day. What’s more, they effortlessly combine their sky-high allure with the culinary delights of rooftop restaurants, conveniently nestled near shopping areas. Perfect for those family shopping days enhancing a magical day out.
Alto
Where’s the rooftop? Bond Street
Best for: Set above Selfridges, this restaurant is great for taking the kids for lunch after some serious shopping. Not the best for views but the summer will transport you to Italy and winter they cosy up. Check the current menu’s as there is lots of small plates and we know that isn’t always what kids want! More info here.
601
Where’s the rooftop? Wimbledon
Best for: This is a gorgeous terrace by the shopping centre. Either one for post tennis catch ups or lunch with the family. You can’t book the terrace but inside also vibes summer. More info here.
Oxo Tower
Where’s the rooftop? Southbank
Best for: With a relaxed terrace and an indoor restaurant with floor to celling windows this rooftop restaurant is ideal for a special occasion. More info here.
Mercato
Where’s the rooftop? Mayfair
Best for: Set on top of a church that is filled with food outlets this a great choice on a hot summers day to escape to. Plus with the choice of food you can cater for all tastes and fads! More info here.
Mercer Roof Terrace
Where’s the rooftop? Mansion house
Best For: A beautiful small terrace that is hidden away on top of their hotel. Perfect for a special lunch when taking the kids to the city to explore. More info here
Seabird
Where’s the rooftop? Southwark
Best for: Seafood lovers or wanting to wow the kids with the views. Great for impressing overseas visitors too. The terrace does get quite cold in winter so wrap up! More info here.
The Broadcaster
Where’s the rooftop? White City
Best for? Opposite Westfield this rooftop is a gold mine for some post shopping drinks or lunch to get you ready!! As it is also set by Television centre it’s perfect for a pre recording drink adding to the magic of your visit. More info here.
London Rooftop Bars and Restaurants that allow Children in the Daytime
Aviary: Daily until 6pm
Where’s the rooftop? Moorgate
Best for: A stunner of a view, one that will impress the children! It is in the heart of the city so one if you are in the area and with an indoor restaurant you can get some lunch too. More info here.
Bussey Rooftop Bar: Daily till 5pm
Where’s the rooftop? Peckham
Best for: Grab the mums, pack the colouring books and head to this rooftop for relaxed catch up drinks. Spectacular views and space for the kids to sit on the shared tables and draw. More info here.
Bokan: Daily to under 12’s till 8pm (age 12-18 anytime welcome anytime)
Where’s the rooftop? Canary Wharf
Best for: With the restaurant 2 floors below the rooftop this is perfect for a special dinner out. The views on every floor are breathtaking and the food is equally as spectacular. More info here.
Radio Rooftop: Daily till 5pm
Where’s the rooftop? The Strand
Best for: Going to a matinee or just exploring Covent garden with the kids then this famous rooftop is perfect for memorable lunch. Or if you are catching up with friends then there are sofa’s to relax on. More info here.
Culpeper – Daily till 8pm
Where’s the Rooftop? Aldgate
Best for: Green fingers! This little rooftop restaurant is also a garden as they grow their own veg on the rooftop! Perfect for a catch up while impressing or educating your kids. Note there is no lift! More info here.
Random rooftop access for kids – but never allowed on Saturdays.
Garden Rooftop: Sunday – Thursday anytime.
Where’s the rooftop? Leicester square
Best for: A mainly enclosed rooftop, this botanical oasis is perfect as a pit stop from all the tourist activity’s below! More info here.
Dalston Roof Park: Wednesday – Friday & Sundays before 5pm
Where’s the rooftop? Dalston
Best for: Grab the gang and their kids and head over for relaxed drinks and catch up with friends. More info here.
LSQ – Sunday – Thursday before 6pm
Where’s the rooftop? Leicester Square
Best for: Spectacular views over London this rooftop is ideal for a lunch break from the crazy busyness below while still being touristy! More info here.
The Rooftop – Sunday – Wednesday anytime
Where’s the rooftop? Trafalgar Square
Best for: This rooftop brings the elegance and so perfect for older kids to impress them with these views. More info here.
Free Rooftop Gardens in London
Finally, for those unconcerned about having access to a bar or restaurant, London offers two fantastic urban garden oases. These havens are free to enter, offer breathtaking views, and warmly welcome children of all ages. Pack a picnic and ascend to these scenic spots on a sunny summer day for a memorable outdoor experience.
120 Rooftop Garden
Where’s the rooftop? Fenchurch Street
Best for: The Views. This concrete rooftop garden has all the views. It is truly spectacular. Bring a picnic and some shade and it is a great place for a playdate. More info here
Cross Rail Garden
Where’s the rooftop? Canary Wharf
Best for: Activities. This rooftop has periods full of fun things to do at other times it is a quiet space so check before you go but still perfect for a visit. More info here.
Wishing you and your little companions a delightful time! Just a heads up, they do need to be accompanied by an adult – teenagers can’t simply saunter in as a group to these rooftops. It’s essential that they’re supervised by a responsible adult – you can decide if the fun auntie qualifies as such! 😉
Disclaimer: As with all rooftop bar info, it’s correct at time of publication but do always double check when you book as rules and times can change.