4 of London’s most spectacular rooftop bars

There are few rituals that capture the elegance of London life quite like enjoying a curated cocktail high above the city streets. As the skyline lights up, the capital's finest rooftop lounges offer front-row seats to architectural wonders ranging from St Paul's Cathedral to the Shard.

This curated selection highlights the most sophisticated rooftop bars in London, where exceptional mixology, premium service, and breathtaking panoramic views come together.

1. The Rooftop

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Website

Contact details: +44 20 7870 2904

Operating hours:

• Monday to Thursday: 3 pm to 10:30 pm
• Friday to Saturday: 12 pm to 11 pm
• Sunday: 3 pm to 10:30 pm

Price: £££

Perched atop the boutique Trafalgar St. James Hotel, The Rooftop offers one of London's most spectacular dining and drinking vantage points. Situated directly above Trafalgar Square, it commands stunning views of the National Gallery, Whitehall, and the London Eye.

The design is refined and comfortable, featuring plush seating areas and a heated outdoor terrace that allows for year-round alfresco dining. The bar serves an exceptional menu of crafted cocktails, fine wines, and European-inspired small plates, making it an elite destination for both day and night.

Pro tip: During the summer months, outdoor tables are in high demand; book several weeks in advance to secure a prime spot on the terrace.

2. Radio Rooftop

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Website

Contact details: +44 20 7379 6606

Operating hours:

• Monday to Wednesday: 12 pm to 12 am
• Thursday to Saturday: 12 pm to 1:30 am
• Sunday: 12 pm to 12 am

Price: £££

Located on the 10th floor of the ME London hotel on the Strand, Radio Rooftop is a sleek, high-profile venue offering panoramic views of London's skyline. The vista spans from the towers of the City to the houses of Parliament and the London Eye.

The interior design features a sophisticated blend of natural wood, marble, and subtle East Asian decorative accents. The menu highlights refined, modern Asian sharing plates, accompanied by an inventive cocktail list featuring premium ingredients. From Thursday to Saturday evenings, the space is animated by live DJ sets playing melodic and deep house music.

Pro tip: The venue enforces a strict smart-casual dress code; avoid sportswear and athletic shoes to ensure entry and align with the elegant metropolitan atmosphere.

3. 12th Knot

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Website

Contact details: +44 20 3747 1063

Operating hours:

• Tuesday to Wednesday: 5 pm to 12 am
• Thursday to Saturday: 5 pm to 12:30 am
• Monday: Closed

Price: £££

Commanding the 12th floor of Sea Containers London on the South Bank, 12th Knot is a sophisticated lounge and terrace with panoramic views of the River Thames and St Paul's Cathedral. The open-plan interior is defined by floor-to-ceiling windows, plush mid-century seating, and lush botanicals.

The venue hosts live music sessions on Wednesdays and resident DJs from Thursday to Saturday, delivering a refined yet vibrant atmosphere. The bar features a curated cocktail menu alongside a selection of British and European small plates.

Pro tip: Sample the Southbank Spritz, a signature cocktail that combines Aperol and Prosecco with passion fruit and kalamansi for a bright, citrus-forward flavour.

4. Florattica Rooftop London

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Website

Contact details: +44 20 3988 4489

Operating hours:

• Monday to Thursday: 4 pm to 12 am
• Friday: 4 pm to 1 am
• Saturday: 12 pm to 1 am
• Sunday: 12 pm to 11 am

Price: ££

Situated on the 11th floor of the Canopy by Hilton London City, Florattica Rooftop is an award-winning venue renowned for its botanical-inspired interiors. The ceiling installations of hanging flowers pay homage to the local silk-weaving history of Spitalfields, creating a lush, immersive environment that opens onto a heated terrace with views of St Paul's and Canary Wharf.

The cocktail menu is exceptionally creative, focusing on floral and herbal infusions paired with premium spirits. The kitchen serves a refined selection of contemporary small plates, including crab tortelloni and artisan sliders, making it a highly regarded destination for cocktails and light dining.

Pro tip: Between Sunday and Friday, the venue offers a curated dining package, providing three selected dishes and a signature cocktail for a set price, making it an excellent option for a midweek evening.