NOW that summer is in full swing and the heat is truly turning up, there’s one spot like nowhere else to make the most of this weather – the rooftop bar.
So I visited some of London’s most popular rooftop bars to see which ones are really worth it
Chilling in the gazebo by the water fountain was a very different vibe to the competitive darts going on inside[/caption]
Here are five of my favourites to visit if you are in the city this weekend.
(Some of them feel like being at a beach club abroad, but for half the price).
Magic Gardens, Victoria Flight Club
Flight Club in London’s Victoria is a buzzing spot for after-work drinks and competitive darts with friends.
It’s popular for its retro fairground decor and stunningly suave bars, serving everything from craft beers to velvety espresso martinis.
It might be best known for its indoor high-energy darts, but take a step outside into their Magic Gardens and you’re transported into a dreamy rooftop escape.
As soon as I stepped out onto the terrace, I was hit with a vibrant floral explosion. It was a total contrast to the vintage feel of the indoor bar.
The Magic Gardens are like a hidden oasis tucked between skyscrapers.
The lush greenery and vibrant flowers make for a beautiful escape from the bustle of the surrounding city (and also make for a great Instagram backdrop!)
The drinks menu is full of fresh, summery cocktails.
The ‘Rose-ito’ in particular caught my eye. It’s a blend of rose-flavoured vodka with fresh lime and mint – the perfect floral refresher to sip in the summer heat.
The Magic Gardens make for a perfect selfie backdrop[/caption]
The garden-themed rooftop was truly enchanting[/caption]
London Bridge Rooftop Bar
In the centre of London, just minutes from Borough Market, is London Bridge Rooftop Bar.
This colourful hangout is built for partying and spectacular skyline views.
After making my way up a series of stairs (you forget that to visit a rooftop bar, you have to actually climb to the rooftop) I walked out onto a lawn decorated with picnic benches and bold colours.
This spot definitely has a party vibe, with booming beats blasting through the speakers and a DJ booth right in the centre.
It feels like a mix of city bar and Ibiza beach club, but weirdly it works. Business professionals were flocking in straight from the office, snacking on truffle fries in their suits and sunnies.
London Bridge Rooftop bar often books up, so it’s worth reserving a table[/caption]
There’s even a photobooth to remember your night out[/caption]
The bright and colourful garden decor was a real change from the streets of central London[/caption]
Think sipping on an Aperol Spritz and biting into a gourmet smash burger, all a stone’s throw away from The Shard.
The rooftop has DJ performances from 6pm Thursday through Saturday, playing the best in house and garage.
They also do a bottomless brunch on Saturdays that tends to sell out. 90 blissful minutes of bottomless Prosecco, Aperol, mimosas and beers with burgers and fries for £40 per person.
Given the location, views and vibe, I think it’s well worth it.
Circe’s Rooftop
This gorgeous rooftop bar felt less like London and more like Mykonos.
After walking up a staircase full of painted clouds and mythical goddess quotes, I stepped out into a world of peachy pink beachfront bliss.
With its palm trees, parasols and beach hut bar, why go for a girl’s trip to Marbella when you can sip and sunbathe in Waterloo?
This beach club style rooftop bar is just minutes’ walk from a busy station. But once I arrived, I instantly forgot about where I really was. Less Northern line, more Negronis.
Cosy coral-coloured sofas lined the outskirts of the bar[/caption]
A beach-hut bar smack bang in the middle of London? Yes please![/caption]
‘Drink up the rays for days and days’ on the daybeds[/caption]
The rooftop has a truly Mediterranean vibe, offering mezze and small plates to go with your piña colada or kiwi margarita.
The small plates are 3 for 2 if you’re there before 5pm, and range from spiced kofta lamb skewers to chilli tiger prawns.
I could honestly spend all day snacking, sipping and pretending I’m away on holiday.
I also couldn’t help but notice the espresso martini chocolate flavoured ice cream on the puddings, served with Hotel Chocolat chocolate sauce.
I was loving life relaxing on the daybeds[/caption]
I didn’t think I’d ever see palm trees next to London skyscrapers, but there’s a first time for everything[/caption]
Frank’s Cafe
If you’re looking for something a little more quirky and artsy, Frank’s Cafe in Peckham really took me by surprise.
It has a much more urban and industrial feel, an effortlessly cool vibe, and is also the cheapest of the lot.
After walking up a hot pink staircase, you step out onto a giant playground.
The bar is hidden at the back of a giant rooftop, as you walk by unique art installations that make you feel like you’re in Berlin.
It’s a cheap and trendy spot where people gather for toasties, iced cocktails, and to watch the sunset over the London skyline.
By night, the rooftop is buzzing with groups sharing jugs of cheap drinks and enjoying food from the grill.
Drinks like alcoholic slushies are served in takeaway style cups at wooden benches for that no-frills urban feel.
It all felt a bit too cool and concrete for me, but the £5 drinks stole my heart.
This quirky spot is a great place for casual drinks with friends, a cheap bite to eat, and some pretty spectacular views over the city.
Casual bench seating and a super simple food and drinks menu make Frank’s Cafe a staple choice[/caption]
Five before five is the rooftop bar’s popular drinks deal[/caption]
Market Halls Victoria
Opposite London Victoria station is a bar where street food market hall meets swanky rooftop hangout.
You start by choosing your food in the downstairs market hall, where various venders offer a range of affordable eats.
Burgers from Black Bear smelled divine, and the ever-popular eggslut was serving their famous breakfast style sandwiches.
I grabbed myself a tub of gelato from Badiani, and headed upstairs.
Stepping out into this stunning suntrap was a joy[/caption]
The floral decor really made this place feel like an urban escape[/caption]
This rooftop terrace was an absolute suntrap, and the perfect spot to enjoy the street food and soak up some rays.
The atmosphere is lively and the music is loud, with many gathered to watch the busy world go by with an ice cold pint.
The bar also hold live music events and regularly show football matches, making it a solid spot to meet up and soak up the summer vibes.
And three other rooftop bars outside of London
Goodness Gracious Roof Garden and Bar, Liverpool
Located in Liverpool, Goodness Gracious Roof Garden and Bar can be found on the eighth floor of West Africa House.
With views of the city’s iconic ‘Three Graces’ – The Royal Liver Building, The Cunard Building and the Port of Liverpool Building.
The bar is open from 12pm till late, Wednesday through to Sunday and has been described by previous visitors as a “real sun trap”.
20 Stories, Manchester
Over in Manchester, 20 stories is split between a roof terrace, restaurant and cocktail bar.
And this summer, the bar has partnered with Aperol for a bespoke Spritz menu.
The venue will also host live music every Thursday, Friday and Saturday.
Guesthouse No.42, Margate
Guesthouse No.42 opened in Margate back in 2023 and in the same year the spot opened their new rooftop terrace bar.
The bar features amazing 360 degree views over the beach front and serves a wide range of tipples including local beers and wine.
However, it is currently the only rooftop bar in Margate – so could be busy in the summer months.
