
For Seasoned Explorers of Life
Discover London: Where Hidden Gems Sparkle and Classics Never Go Out of Style
From dazzling West End shows to immersive cabaret nights, from sipping a pint in a historic riverside pub to indulging in bottomless brunches with prosecco—AL's Guide to London covers it all. Whether you're a curious tourist, a local explorer, or a weekend wanderer, discover the best experiences the city has to offer, curated with passion and insight.
Start exploring now and uncover your perfect London adventure!
Affiliate Disclosure
To help fund this site and keep the content free, some of the links on AL’s Guide to London are affiliate links. This means that if you click through and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission—at no extra cost to you. I only recommend experiences, services, and products I genuinely believe will enhance your time in London. Thanks for your support!
Rooftop Bars in London
"London’s Best-Kept Secret? It’s Above Your Head."
When the streets get crowded and the pubs get packed, savvy Londoners know the real magic happens a few floors up. From sky-high speakeasies to garden terraces with panoramic views, London’s rooftop bars are where cocktails meet clouds and sunsets come with a side of skyline. Whether you're sipping a Negroni in Shoreditch or clinking glasses over the Thames, these elevated escapes offer a fresh perspective—literally.
So grab your sunnies, charge your phone (you’ll want pics), and let’s head to the top. The city looks better from here.
Sky Garden
"The Only Jungle in London Where You Can See the Shard from the Trees."
Perched atop the Walkie Talkie building, the Sky Garden is where nature meets skyline and selfies meet stratosphere. It’s part tropical greenhouse, part cocktail lounge, and entirely unforgettable. Think lush greenery, sweeping 360° views of London, and a bar that’s closer to the clouds than your average pub.
Whether you're chasing sunsets, sipping espresso martinis, or just pretending you're in a Bond film, Sky Garden is your go-to for high-altitude vibes—no hiking boots required.
1864 Rooftop Bar & Kitchen
Welcome to 1864 Rooftop Bar—floating high above John Lewis, where Oxford Street’s bustle is just background music for your next adventure!
Up here, the only thing more dazzling than the cocktails is the skyline. Whether you’re escaping the shopping crowds or just in it for the ‘Gram, we promise sky-high sips, cheeky vibes, and stories you’ll want to retell (even if you have to embellish a little). So grab a drink, grab a friend, and let’s toast to being on top of the world—well, at least on top of John Lewis!
Circe's Rooftop Bar
“Take your night to new heights at Cirque’s Rooftop Bar in Waterloo, where the city’s best views are just an elevator ride away. Sip, savour, and soak in the skyline—because in this corner of London, the only thing more elevated than your cocktail is your perspective.”
LSQ Rooftop
“Perched high above the iconic Leicester Square, LSQ Rooftop Bar is where London’s skyline meets your glass. Whether you’re here for the panoramic views, the expertly crafted cocktails, or just to feel a little closer to the stars (and maybe a celebrity or two below), this is your invitation to rise above the ordinary. Cheers to sunsets, city lights, and the best seat in the Square!”
Kitty Hawk
Kitty Hawk Lands in Leicester Square: Where History Takes Flight and Cocktails Taxi to the Runway
Forget the Outer Banks—Kitty Hawk has touched down in the heart of London! Nestled among the neon lights and cinematic buzz of Leicester Square, this high-flying homage to aviation history blends Wright brothers’ ambition with West End flair. Whether you're here for altitude or attitude, expect a first-class experience with zero turbulence—just smooth vibes, sharp drinks, and a cabin crew that knows how to party.
Radio Rooftop
Radio Rooftop: Where London’s Skyline Gets a Soundtrack
Perched above the ME London Hotel like a stylish secret with a view, Radio Rooftop isn’t just a bar—it’s a broadcast of pure glamour. With panoramic sights stretching from Tower Bridge to the London Eye, this is where cocktails come with altitude and conversation flows smoother than the Thames. Whether you're here to toast the sunset or turn up the vibe, Radio Rooftop is your signal to tune into London’s chicest frequency.
London Bridge Rooftop
"High Spirits Above the Thames"
Perched atop a nondescript building near one of London’s most iconic landmarks, London Bridge Rooftop Bar is where city views meet cheeky vibes. Think picnic benches, pumping tunes, and pints with a skyline. It’s the kind of place where the Shard photobombs your selfies and the cocktails come with a side of sass. Whether you're chasing sunsets or just escaping the rush below, this rooftop is your ticket to sky-high chill with a distinctly London twist.
OXO Bar & Restaurant
"Fine Dining with a Side of Skyline"
Welcome to the OXO Rooftop Restaurant—where the food is elevated and so is everything else. Nestled atop the iconic OXO Tower, this spot serves up panoramic views of the Thames alongside plates that are almost too pretty to eat (almost). Whether you're sipping cocktails as the sun dips behind St Paul’s or indulging in modern British cuisine with a twist, this is London dining with altitude and attitude. Dress sharp, bring your appetite, and prepare to dine above the drama.
Soho Sky Terrace
"Soho’s Best-Kept Secret—Now Above Ground"
Tucked away above the buzz of Soho, the Sky Terrace is where London’s skyline meets laid-back luxury. It’s the kind of place where cocktails come with a view, and the vibe is always effortlessly cool. Think fairy lights, plush seating, and the occasional rooftop DJ set—perfect for sunset sipping or late-night lounging. Whether you're escaping the crowds or chasing the clouds, this terrace turns every visit into a high-altitude highlight.
The Trafalgar Rooftop Bar
"History Below, Cocktails Above"
Set atop the Trafalgar St. James hotel, The Trafalgar Rooftop Bar is where London’s past meets its present—with a cocktail in hand and Nelson keeping watch. With unbeatable views of Trafalgar Square, this rooftop is your front-row seat to the city’s heartbeat. Expect stylish sips, plush seating, and sunsets that make you forget the Tube even exists. Whether you're toasting to victory or just vibing with the skyline, this is London lounging at its most iconic.
The Rooftop @ The Standard
The Rooftop Bar at the Standard: Where the Views Are as Elevated as the Vibes
Perched high above King’s Cross with a cocktail in hand and the London skyline laid out like a postcard, The Rooftop at the Standard isn’t just a bar — it’s a mood. Think retro-chic meets urban oasis, where DJs spin, sunsets glow, and the only thing more intoxicating than the drinks is the atmosphere. Whether you're here for the panoramic views, the playful menu, or just to feel like you're starring in your own stylish city escape, this rooftop delivers — with flair, flavour, and just the right amount of fabulous.
The Marquess of Anglesey
"A Noble View with a Not-So-Noble Pint"
Upstairs from the historic hustle of Covent Garden, The Rooftop Bar at The Marquess of Anglesey offers a cheeky escape with a regal twist. It’s where traditional pub charm meets open-air elegance—complete with views of theatre lights, London rooftops, and the occasional dramatic sunset. Whether you're sipping a spritz or nursing a pint, this rooftop is your throne for the evening. No dukes or duchesses required—just good company and a decent pour.
Savage Garden
"London’s Wild Side—Served with a View"
Welcome to Savage Garden, the rooftop bar that ditched the tea and crumpets for cocktails and chaos. Sitting high above the City, this sky-high haunt is all about bold flavours, fierce décor, and panoramic drama. Think neon lights, devilish drinks, and a vibe that’s more rock concert than garden party. Whether you're here for the skyline selfies or the savage spritzes, this is London nightlife with bite—and it’s anything but tame.
CoQ d'Argent
"Where French Flair Meets London Air"
High above the City’s hustle, Coq d’Argent is the rooftop bar that proves sophistication doesn’t have to shout—it simply pours champagne and lets the skyline do the talking. With manicured gardens, suave cocktails, and a menu that whispers Parisian chic, this is where power lunches turn into sunset soirées. Whether you're sealing deals or stealing kisses, Coq d’Argent serves up rooftop refinement with a très London twist.
The Castle Islington
"A Royal Escape Above the Roundabout"
Perched atop a classic corner pub in the heart of Islington, The Castle Rooftop Bar is where local charm meets lofty lounging. With fairy lights, comfy benches, and views that stretch just far enough to feel fancy, it’s the perfect spot for a pint with altitude. Whether you're basking in the sun or braving the British breeze, this rooftop is your laid-back throne for an afternoon well spent. No crown required—just good vibes and a cold drink.
Bokan
"Sky-High Sips with a Side of Skyline Drama"
At Bōkan, the rooftop bar isn’t just a place—it’s a statement. Towering above Canary Wharf, this sleek sky sanctuary blends industrial chic with a touch of nautical nostalgia, serving up cocktails as bold as the views. From the 39th floor, London looks like a movie set, and you’re the star—glass in hand, wind in your hair, and the city sprawling beneath you. Whether you're chasing sunsets or just escaping spreadsheets, Bōkan is where altitude meets attitude.
The Gods Rooftop Bar
The Gods Rooftop Bar: Where the Stakes Are High and the Spirits Even Higher
Floating above the buzz of Leicester Square, The Gods Rooftop Bar is where old-school glamour meets sky-high swagger. Tucked atop the legendary Hippodrome Casino, this rooftop haven serves up cocktails with a side of drama — and we’re not just talking about the skyline views. Whether you're toasting a win, plotting your next poker move, or just soaking in the West End glow, this is the kind of divine intervention your night out deserves.
Wagtail Rootop Bar
Wagtail Rooftop Bar: Where London Looks Up to You
Perched gracefully above the City, Wagtail isn’t just a rooftop bar — it’s a high-flying escape where cocktails come with a side of skyline. With St Paul’s on one side and Tower Bridge on the other, this is where London’s landmarks become your drinking buddies. Whether you're chasing sunsets, sealing deals, or just sipping something fabulous, Wagtail delivers altitude with attitude — and a view that’s always worth raising a glass to.
Aviary Rooftop Bar
Aviary Rooftop Bar: Where the Cocktails Soar and the City Sings
High above the hustle of the City, Aviary isn’t just a rooftop bar — it’s a perch with panache. With sweeping skyline views, plush igloos in winter, and cocktails that flirt with perfection, this is where Londoners come to roost in style. Whether you're chasing sunsets or just escaping the ground-level grind, Aviary delivers altitude with attitude — and a side of seriously good vibes.
Affiliate Disclosure
To help fund this site and keep the content free, some of the links on AL’s Guide to London are affiliate links. This means that if you click through and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission—at no extra cost to you. I only recommend experiences, services, and products I genuinely believe will enhance your time in London. Thanks for your support!


















