London’s skyline, a dramatic blend of ancient domes and soaring contemporary towers, is best admired with a cocktail in hand. The city’s rooftop bars offer not just drinks, but curated vantage points for seeing iconic landmarks like The Shard, St Paul’s, and the Thames.
Whether you’re looking for a luxurious night out or a vibrant afternoon spot, here is a guide to London’s best rooftop bars with truly stunning views.
1. The Crown Jewels: Best Views of St Paul’s & The City
These bars are located in the financial district and offer breathtaking, up-close views of St Paul’s Cathedral and the surrounding skyscrapers.
| Bar | Location | Signature View | Vibe & Dress Code |
| Madison | One New Change (City) | Direct view of St Paul’s Cathedral. The terraces overlook the dome, making it feel close enough to touch. | Manhattan-style glamour. Lively atmosphere with DJs. Dress code is smart/elegant (no athletic wear). |
| Wagtail | Monument (City) | 360° Views including The Shard, Tower Bridge, and St Paul’s. Split over two floors with a restaurant and bar. | High-end, sophisticated. Known for excellent cocktails and a dress-to-impress clientele. |
| Sabine Rooftop Bar | St Paul’s | Enchanting Gothic View. Located right next to St Paul’s, offering a plush, candlelit setting. | Plush, romantic, and excellent for evening drinks. Dress code is smart. |
| Aviary | Finsbury Square | Sweeping views of the City skyline, looking towards the Shard and Tower Bridge. | Sleek, spacious terrace. Features seasonal igloos in winter. Ideal for high-end brunch or evening cocktails. |
2. Riverside Glamour: South Bank & Tower Views
These locations are perfect for watching the sunset over the Thames, offering views of the London Eye, the Houses of Parliament, and the City cluster.
| Bar | Location | Signature View | Vibe & Dress Code |
| 12th Knot | Sea Containers London (South Bank) | Unrivalled views of the River Thames and the City skyline. Looks across the water at Blackfriars Bridge and the City. | Eclectic, vibrant, and stylish. Known for current tunes and late-night DJ sets. Dress code is smart-casual, leaning towards fashion-forward. |
| Mercer Roof Terrace | Vintry & Mercer Hotel (City) | Sweeping views that capture St Paul’s dome and the glass tip of The Shard in one glance. | Warm, convivial atmosphere with indoor-outdoor seating (seasonal cabins/igloos). Elegant dining available. |
| Radio Rooftop | ME London Hotel (The Strand) | A classic central spot offering views over the Thames, Covent Garden, and the Houses of Parliament. | Slick, modern, and high-status. A strong central London presence requiring a smart dress code. |
3. The Altitude Experts: Bars at The Shard
If height is your priority, the bars within The Shard (Western Europe’s tallest building) offer an unmatched perspective.
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GŎNG (Level 52): The highest hotel bar in Western Europe, located within the Shangri-La Hotel. Known for its sophisticated atmosphere and dramatic sunset views.
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Aqua Shard (Level 31): Features a spectacular three-story atrium bar alongside its restaurant, offering stunning contemporary views. Ideal for a celebratory drink or afternoon tea.
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TĪNG (Level 35): Offers a lighter, modern British menu with an Asian twist, all framed by those iconic views.
Essential Planning Tips
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Book Well in Advance: For weekend evenings, popular bars like Madison and 12th Knot often book out weeks ahead. Always reserve a spot, especially if you want a terrace table.
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The Dress Code is Key: Most high-end rooftop bars (especially in Mayfair and The City) enforce a strict dress code. Avoid: Trainers/sneakers, flip-flops, athletic wear, and ripped denim. Opt for: Smart jeans, shirts, dresses, and clean, smart shoes.
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Check Operating Hours: Many rooftop bars operate on seasonal hours. Some (like Maltby Street Market’s pop-ups) are only open on weekends, while others may close their outdoor terraces entirely in inclement weather.
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Consider Sky Garden (The Free Alternative): While not technically a bar (it’s a free public garden), the Sky Garden offers some of the best FREE views in London and has several bars inside where you can buy a drink. (You must book a free ticket in advance, or inquire about walk-in availability).