Being a parent doesn’t mean you have to give up rooftop drinks and London views! I’ve rounded up the best London rooftop bars that welcome children, and there are more family-friendly options than you might expect.
Whether you’re a parent looking for somewhere to enjoy an afternoon with the kids, meeting friends with little ones in tow, or, like me, an awesome auntie looking to treat the teens to a day out in London, I’ve got you covered. I’ve rooftop-tested several London rooftops with my niece and nephew, giving me a first-hand insight into what it’s actually like for them and whether I’d recommend it to you.
One question I get asked is where you can take a teenager for a special occasion, particularly for a 16th birthday or a birthday lunch when younger siblings are joining an older 18-year-old. So, I’ve organised the rooftops into three categories: anytime access, daytime only and select times, so you can quickly find somewhere that works for your family.
Because having kids in tow doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice a good view – they could even be the reason for going! Seeing London from above gives them a completely different perspective. So 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? Alto Rooftop Bar and restaurant is on top of Selfridges at Bond Street
Best for: This rooftop 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 in 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! Read my full review of Alto rooftop Bar and Restaurant
601 Queen Road Rooftop
Where’s the rooftop? 601 Queen Road, is exactly where is says! Queens road in 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 has summer vibes. One caveat that the weekend evenings can be less suitable for children though they are still allowed. Read my full review of 601 Queen’s Road.
Oxo Tower
Where’s the rooftop? Oxo Tower is based at Southbank
Best for: With a relaxed terrace and an indoor restaurant with floor to ceiling windows this rooftop restaurant is ideal for a special occasion.Children’s menus and high chairs available. Read my full review of Oxo Tower Restaurant, Bar & Brassiere.
Mercato – The Mayfair Terrace
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! Read my full review of Mercato – Mayfair The Terrace .
Mercer Roof Terrace
Where’s the rooftop? Mercer Roof terrace is based close to Mansion House Tube
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. Read my full review of Mercer Roof Terrace.
Seabird
Where’s the rooftop? Seabird Rooftop is at the Hoxton Hotel, 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. Read my full Review of Seabird Rooftop.
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 to spend all your pennies – especially if you have the kids with you! High chairs available too – request when booking. Read my full review of The Broadcaster Rooftop.
London Rooftop Bars and Restaurants that allow Children in the Daytime
LSQ Rooftop
Where’s the rooftop? LSQ Rooftop is in the heart of Leicester Square
When are children allowed? All day and early evening. Fri and Saturday nights not at all.
Best for: Spectacular views over London this rooftop is ideal for a lunch break from the crazy busyness below while still being touristy! One I have rooftop tested with my niece and nephew when they were just teenagers. Read my full review of LSQ.
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.
Aviary Rooftop Bar
Where’s the rooftop? Avairy Rooftop Bar is based at Moorgate
When are children allowed to at Aviary Rooftop Bar? 7pm
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. Read my full review of Avairy Rooftop Bar.
Bussey Rooftop Bar & Rooftop Cinema:
Where’s the rooftop? Bussey Rooftop Bar and Rooftop Cinema are a short walk from Peckham station
When are children allowed at Bussey Rooftop Bar: Daily till 7pm
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. This view is also home to Rooftop Cinema which runs in the summer offering children’s films on certain days. Read my full review of Bussey Rooftop Bar and Rooftop Cinema in Peckham
Bokan Rooftop Bar
Where’s the rooftop? Canary Wharf
When are Children allowed at Bokan Rooftop Bar: Daily to under 12’s untill 8pm. 12-18 years old are welcome anytime as long as they are accompanied by an adult
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? Radio Rooftop Bar is based on top of the ME Melia Hotel at tThe Strand
When are children allowed at Radio Rooftop Bar? Until 5pm then it is over 21s.
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. Read mu full review of Radio Rooftop
