London is my rooftop playground and home – a city I’ve explored from every angle, from the popular rooftop bars to hidden gems tucked away above quiet streets. Over the years, I’ve personally visited more than 140 rooftops across London, many of them multiple times, capturing every experience through my own photos and reviews.
From after-work drinks and rooftop brunches to cocktails with a view and even watching films above the city, I’ve enjoyed them all and so have got the insider knowledge to help you find the right rooftop for you. So whether you’re looking for somewhere in a particular area or have a special occasion, this is your guide to London’s rooftops – with all my local tips and honest recommendations along the way.
MAP: Explore All London Rooftops on my interactive map
Click any rooftop to see my photos, reviews, and more. This interactive map lets you browse London by area, find hidden gems, and plan your perfect sky-high outing
London’s Rooftop Bars by Area
With more than 140 rooftops across North, South, East and West London, finding the right one can feel like a first-world decision! Browse the areas below to find a rooftop near you, or use my interactive map to explore them all at a glance.
Central London
Central London spanning from Knightsbridge to Soho this is the most popular location for London Rooftop Bars. Click through to see the full list of Central London rooftops.
The City & Shoreditch
Some of my favourite London views are this side of the city. Set in the heart of towering skyscrapers this area combines modern glamour with local charm. Click through to explore the City & Shoreditch rooftop list.
South of the River Thames
Classic views of the River Thames, boujee bars to casual hang out spaces – South of the River has it all. Explore the South London rooftop page to find your perfect spot.
East London
Arty atmospheres, quirky bars and a chic vibe make East London a rooftop haven for the more quintessential drinker. Check out the East London rooftop page for more.
West London
The lesser populated rooftop area, West London is getting a glow up as rooftops pop up! Personally loving this as a westie! Click through to see the current West London rooftop list.
North London
From handy rooftop bars in the commuter area of Kings Cross to cute pub rooftop terraces. Click through to see the full North London list.
‘BEST OF’ from Bottomless Brunches to the Best Views
Welcome to my ‘Best Of’s‘ lists, designed to help you navigate London’s rooftop scene with insider know-how. Looking for a specific type of rooftop in London? Click through to see each themed guide and start planning your sky-high rooftoping adventure!
NEWS: New London Rooftop Openings
London’s rooftop scene is always evolving, with new bars and pop-ups appearing across the city. I personally track the latest openings and link them by area so you can easily explore what’s new. Click through to see the full London Rooftop Bar & Restaurant News page for all the up-to-date listings and insider info.
Frequently Asked Questions About London Rooftop Bars
If you want plenty of options, Central London and the City have some of the best rooftop bars overall, especially if skyline views are high on your list. That doesn’t mean other areas don’t have great rooftops too – you’ll just find a bigger concentration of choice here. Looking for a specific landmark view? See my landmark rooftop round-up
If you want a rooftop with a proper view, expect a fairly steep price tag – especially in Central London. But there are plenty of options with happy hours, good-value drinks or venues outside the prime spots that are much more affordable. See my affordable rooftop round-up.
There are more than 140 rooftop bars, restaurants, pubs and other rooftop spaces across London, although that number is always changing as venues close and new rooftops pop up. In 2026 alone, we’ve already had six new entries added to my London guide.
The best rooftop bar is very subjective and depends on your budget, the vibe you’re after, who you’re with, the occasion and where you want to be. I’d suggest starting with location and handily, I have a map just for you! But if you want my single top pick regardless of location in London, I answer that here
Not all London rooftop bars are open all year, but increasingly more are accommodating the weather and leaning into the winter vibe with covers, heating, igloos and hot cocktails. Rooftop season usually starts in April and wraps up in October, although plenty of rooftops now extend beyond these traditional months.
A surprising number of them do! As a rule, children aren’t usually allowed late into the night, but many rooftops welcome families during the day. Always check with the individual venue as policies can change – my last round-up counted 18. See my guide to London rooftop bars that allow children.
For more FAQs, see my full rooftop bar FAQ guide and happy rooftoping!
