14 Best Rooftop Bars in London You Must Visit in 2025

Written by
Armin Tanović
September 17, 2024

0

min read

One thing's for sure: Londoners love a rooftop bar. From Covent Garden to Canary Wharf, London has so many views to offer, and what better way to watch the sun go down than from a stunning rooftop bar?

We've put together our 14 favourite London rooftop bars and given you a brief all-you-need-to-know overview.

1. The Rooftop at St. James

£££
Modern European
⭐️
4.2/5

The Rooftop at St. James is right above Trafalgar Square, putting it in the perfect position to give you beautiful views of the area, skyline, and famous landmarks like the House of Parliament and the London Eye.

The Rooftop at St. James's expert chefs are masters at redefining classic meals from all around the world for a contemporary twist. They have a dish for just about every planet with mouthwatering main courses such as Smoky Aubergine and Grilled Seabass Fillet.

2. Louie

££££
European, French/Seafood
⭐️
4.3/5

Louie’s Terrace in West Street is located right next to its alligator bar. Grab a drink and head outside in their lush green getaway to soak up the views of Covet Garden while listening to some live music.

Besides an exciting, lively vibe, Louie is especially famous for its extensive menu filled with French dishes and fresh seafood with a New Orleans twist. Think oysters, Monkfish Tail, New Orleans BBQ Lobster, and Stonebass Bouillabaisse.

3. Oxo Tower Brasserie & Bar

£££
British, Brasserie
⭐️
4.4/5

OXO is at the very top of the famous OXO tour and its position gives you some of the best views of the river Thames, St. Paul’s Cathedral, as well as a magnificent view of the London skyline.

The OXO bar makes delicious international meals from only the finest British products and ingredients. Their seasonal menu created by executive head chef Jeremy Bloor currently features dishes like Beef Fillet, Red mullet, and Aubergine. Pair your meal with one of their hand-picked wines and you have a night to remember.

4. Aqua Kyoto

£££
Asian, Japanese
⭐️
4.2/5

Perched above the Regent Street Entrance, Aqua Kyoto boasts a new, partially heated and covered Rooftop terrace. When it comes to the view itself, Aqua Kyoto lets you soak up the scene of London’s west end, giving you clear views of the London skyline.

The Aqua Kyoto serves up plates so flavourful, that it's difficult to choose the best meals. Their award-winning chefs specialise in creating traditional Japanese meals with a bit of a contemporary twist. Some of their best meals include Wagyu sirloin, black garlic teriyaki & smoked aubergine miso (yes, that’s all one meal!), and Iberico Pork & Chicken Gyoza.

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6. Sparrow Italia

£££
European, Italian
⭐️
4.6/5

Located in Mayfair Sparrow Italia, there is a luxurious terrace known as the Sparrow’s Nest, where you can soak up the views of the neighbourhood and dine in decadence.

Sparrow Italia is famous for its classic Italian meals, making it a go-to for Mediterranean-loving foodies. Some of its mouthwatering meals include dishes like Ahi Tuna Tartare, Spicy Rigatoni, and Grilled Branzino. Make sure to combine your meal with one of their amazing wines for the complete Italian experience.

7. 12th Knot

££
Modern European
⭐️

Located in the iconic Sea Containers, the 12th Knot has a glass box design, giving you 360 views of the London iconic skyline and all across the River Thames.

If you like North American-inspired dishes with a bit of British quirkiness, then head on over to the 12th Knot. This fine-dining eatery features classy starters like Exmoor Caviar and delicious mains such as Wild Mushroom Pot Pie.

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9. Mercer Roof Terrace

£££
Modern European
⭐️
4.4/5

The floor-to-ceiling windows mean it's a season-proof venue (they also provide sheepskin blankets if it gets chilly).

The garden rooftop offers a spectacular view of Central London’s skyline. As backdrops go, you can't do much better. And if you need a bed for the night, book ahead at the hotel. What's not to love?

Mercer Roof Terrace, a feature of the Vintry & Mercer Hotel, occupies a place at the top of our list not just because of its award-winning rooftop garden but because of its variety of options. You can choose between an al fresco dinner, bar snacks in a winter 'igloo,’ or simply a cocktail at the bar above the city lights.

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Soak up the skyline while dining on your favourite meals

If you’re looking for a change from hitting up Frank's Cafe, sitting at the top of a multi-storey car park in South London, or Radio Rooftop isn’t doing it for you anymore, consider our options. However, you're choosing to combine wining and dining with London's skyline, and with Ambl, you can choose what's right for you. 

Whether you’re planning a celebration in advance or you’re a notorious non-planner, Ambl can help you out. Ambl is making reservations easy, one venue at a time. Ambl can help ensure you’ve got a spot on London’s hottest rooftops—even on those sunny days that bring all of London to their nearest rooftop bar.

Rooftops bars in London FAQs

What is the average cost of a rooftop bar in London?

Cocktails in a London rooftop bar can range between £8-£15. If you're planning dinner, you can expect to pay at least £30 a head, excluding drinks.

What is the dress code for rooftop bars in London?

The dress code for rooftop bars in London tends to be smart casual. If in doubt, check the venue’s website for more details.

What are the best rooftop bars in London to book right now?

While there's strong competition with excellent options all around the city, the best rooftop bars to book in London right now are Cavo, The Lucky Club, and Wagtail.