And rooftop replacements for them:
It’s not even summer yet and we are already bidding farewell to eight London rooftop bars and restaurants – half of which have been staples in our rooftop lives for years! It’s a sad rooftop reflection of our times – the cost of living crisis, the aftermath of the pandemic, and the changes in our habits that some of our most beloved rooftop bars have left our lives and our livers this year. So if you are wondering what has happened to some of your favourites or where you could go instead, then read on.
RIP Bar Elba – instead try it’s replacement Circe’s
This was a bubbly blow – we adored the Isle of Elba and their witty Instagram, winter igloos, and fun in the sun atmosphere. However, when their lease expired, the owner opted for a new direction. Happily the rooftop rumours were true and just 3 months later we have a new Greek inspired rooftop!
Where’s the rooftop bar replacement? For those fun vibes try Circe’s
RIP Pergola Paddington – instead try their Canary Wharf venue
Another hugely popular rooftop bar. (Though I was always a bit undecided that it actually qualified as such). Split across two levels, it never failed to bring the fun. Just Christmas gone, I found myself posing in their pop-up Christmas installations. However, this group, Incipio, is known for ending things on a high. We saw the first pop-up Pergola on top of the old BBC car park back in 2016, and Pergola Olympia, a pandemic favourite, also now gone. So with just one standing still in Canary Wharf I am excited for what rooftop they may pop up on next.
Where’s the rooftop bar replacement? Pergola Canary Wharf
RIP Skylight Peckham – instead try Sabine
Just over 2 years old and with its successful sibling over in Wapping this brought a more boujee vibe to the Skylight brand. Featuring both an indoor restaurant and an outdoor terrace, I was convinced that this would become a beloved hotspot for years to come. Sadly not and at the beginning of the year they closed their doors for good.
Where’s the rooftop bar replacement? For that lux energy with the indoor and out door option, plus fabulous views and scrumptious small plates too, then it has to be Sabine over in Bank.
RIP Camden Diner – instead try Big Chill Bar
This came as a shock to north London lovers of a more chilled rooftop experience. The American diner that served shakes and champers from morning till late will will leave a rooftop burger shaped hole.
Where’s the rooftop bar replacement? Staying north and chill the clue is in the name, Big Chill Bar in Kings Cross.
RIP Cavo – instead try Aqua Kyoto
They technically closed in December 2023, after just 7 months. I am not overly surprised by this one. The service was terrible and they couldn’t even rely on any views. However it is still sad when a rooftop doesn’t make it as it was someone’s dreams.
Where’s the rooftop bar replacement? Aqua Kyoto just along at Oxford Street has long been the perfect after work/ post shopping or pre theatre rooftop bar.
RIP Pantechnicon – instead try Allegra
Currently closed for refurbishments but no guarantee the rooftop will be back! Keeping fingers and toes crossed and will update when more is known.
Where’s the rooftop restaurant replacement? If you liked laid back ease but with great food then head east to Allegra rooftop restaurant.
RIP Skylight Wapping – instead try Roof East
Now while this rooftop is still reopening in May, this year we see change to it becoming private hire only. (Sob) and worse it was cease altogether on July 14th. It does make a lot of sense. It’s location is far from anywhere and you are dependant on the sunshine, planning and booking. Their refund policy was always good but it is a big commitment. I remember one Christmas, having my annual Christmas bestie day out. It was lashing with wind and rain and when our train broke down we had to concede defeat. But when I did make it – it was full of fun. Crocket on the lawn, the only rooftop ice rink, sofas, huts and hideaways. So it will be a big loss, unless I can find 100 friends and hire it to have a party before July 14th!
Where’s the rooftop bar replacement? For all the fun then it has to be the other playground rooftop in London – over in Stratford’s Roof East.
RIP Skyline – instead try Cloud M
This rooftop bar has been a bit of a non starter for the public. I met the owner on the roof just after it opened and they were still finding their feet. The went for the booker route but it became inaccessible to the public and very pricey. Given that they own one of the best rooftops for breathtaking London views, it’s understandable that they’ve transitioned to private hire. It’s a shame, as this rooftop could have easily become a standout among London rooftops with its breathtaking views of the Tower of London.
Where’s the rooftop bar replacement? For those Tower of London views with a glamorous edge then Cloud M is for you.
