London is my rooftop playground and home – a city I’ve explored from every angle, from its popular rooftop bars to those only locals know. Over the years, I’ve personally visited more than 150 rooftops across London, many of them multiple times. I’ve celebrated birthdays at some, spent lazy Sunday afternoons at others and enjoyed countless cocktails at after-work drinks, photographing my experiences and writing honest, independent reviews so you know what to really expect before you visit.
Whether you’re after a laid-back afternoon, a special celebration or you’re looking for a rooftop in a particular area, I can help you find the perfect rooftop for the occasion. From rooftop brunches with a view to open-air cinema nights above the city, I’ve experienced the many different ways to enjoy London from above and I love them! Well, most of them… you won’t find me on a rooftop ice rink (I’m far too clumsy for that – drinking mulled wine by it, that I can do!) So whatever your London rooftop need this guide will help you find the right spot for you, with my personal independent insights and local tips along the way.
Page updated 2026
London’s Rooftop Bars by Area
With more than 150 rooftops across 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.
Map of London’s Rooftop Bars:
Click any champagne bottle on my interactive map of all London Rooftop Bars to discover the rooftop, my photos, reviews, and insider tips!
London Rooftop Bars by Experiences
Looking for a specific type or theme or offer of rooftop in London? Welcome to my curated lists! Designed to help you navigate London’s rooftop scene with insider know-how with no paid placements so you can genuinely find the right rooftop for you. Click through to see each experience led rooftop list and start planning your sky-high rooftoping adventure!
About the London Areas
Central London:
Central London is packed with over 40 rooftop bars, spanning Knightsbridge to Soho. This is the largest and most popular location for London Rooftop Bars. From the famous Radio Rooftop at the Strand to a personal favourite La Yam in Holborn to lesser-known Swingers Rooftop (where you can also play crazy golf inside!) Click through to see the full list of Central London rooftops.
City of London and Shoreditch:
The City of London and Shoreditch have over 25 rooftop bars, including some of my favourite views in London, where modern skyscraper glamour meets local charm. Take in 360-degree views at Wagtail by Monument, one of the best in the city, or head to the newest and quirkiest, Village Underground, which has Tube carriages on its roof! Los Mochis at Liverpool Street is another favourite of mine, as its menu is gluten-free. And I can’t mention this area without the famous Madisons, with views of St Paul’s Cathedral and DJ nights I’ve stayed out too late for! Click through to explore the full City & Shoreditch rooftop list.
South of the River Thames
South of the River Thames, you’ll find over 25 rooftop bars, ranging from London’s original rooftop bar on the South Bank and my first London rooftop, The Oxo Tower, with iconic views across the river to St Paul’s Cathedral. To Peckham’s Bussey Rooftop Bar, also home to one of London’s Rooftop Cinema sites. There’s also the affordable London Bridge Rooftop, with famous views of The Shard. Explore my South London rooftop guide to find your perfect spot.
East London & Canary Wharf
From arty atmospheres to the concrete jungle of Canary Wharf, East London has a smaller but no less spectacular collection of rooftop bars. From Netil 360, with its laid-back vibes near Bethnal Green, to the boujee Bokan Bar in Canary Wharf, there’s something for different tastes and budgets. One of my favourites, even though it’s on the other side of London from me, is the summer-only Roof East in Stratford, packed with games, fun and affordable drinks. Check out my East London rooftop collection for more.
West London
West London, with almost 20 rooftop bars, is fast glowing up as the new rooftop area for London. Personally I am loving this as a West Londoner! From the highest rooftop in London at Paddington’s Cel La Vi to the newest rooftops at Olympia to one that I hold a soft spot for as I used to work at Television Centre right by it, aptly named The Broadcaster. Click through to see the current West London rooftop list.
North London and King’s Cross
North London and King’s Cross tend to be home to more pub rooftops than classic rooftop bars, with one big exception: The Standard, a tempting stop for commuters, although it’s very weather-dependent. Venture over to Islington and you’ll find Bubba Oasis. It doesn’t boast the biggest views, but it definitely brings the vibes! Click through to see the full North London list.
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 150 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 several 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!
