London has turned up the heat to unprecedented levels this summer! With some of the best rooftop and terraces anywhere in the world, tourists, locals, foodies and day-drinkers will be flocking to these hot spots as the temperatures rise. From swanky new Mayfair openings to edgy Shoreditch offerings, here’s London’s hottest rooftop bars and terrace restaurants for 2022.
Wagtail
Situated atop a stunning 1920s building, Wagtail at King William Street in East London may have only opened in May but it’s already proving to be a must-visit destination for locals and visitors alike. The stunning luxury rooftop is flanked by two alfresco terraces built around a historic dome and offers 360° views of the City. With a drinks list by Angelos Bafas, (previously of Aqua), there’s also a small plates menu offering faves like the soft shell crab sliders (£15) and English beef tataki with soy glaze and coriander (£20). It’s a redevelopment of the former House of Fraser by Maven Leisure which itself is owned by the team behind ETM Group who operate, among others, Aviary, The Botanist on Sloane Square and Chiswell Street Dining Rooms in Moorgate. This not-so-hard-on-the-eyes rooftop is open late from Wednesday to Saturday but make sure you secure your spot with a booking.
Bar 31 at Shangri-La The Shard
One of our fave London hotspots has had a Cointreau make over! There’s no mistaking those giant orange parasols at Bar 31 on the ground floor of Shangri-la The Shard, so grab a chair and indulge in some awesome cocktails and frozen margaritas while feasting on delicious sharing plates. We love the sound of the Mandarin Spritz with Cointreau, clementine, rosemary and prosecco, Margot with Cointreau, Tequila Blanco, pink grapefruit, honey and fresh lime and the Litchi with Cointreau, chile liqueur, lychee and fresh lime. You can even whip up your own frozen margarita by taking one of Cointreau’s bespoke bikes for a spin! We’re all over it.
The MAINE Mayfair
Described as ‘bleeding an old-world elegance with a New England extravagance’, The MAINE Mayfair is one of those places you go to treat yourself! The sun-bathed terrace is atmospheric by day and seductive by night making it an easy contender for the most romantic ‘date-night’ spot in London. One look at its Instagram page and you’ll see the covered terrace in the Georgian townhouse, located just off Hanover Square, is rich with British style and elegance decorated with striped awnings, elegant wicker furniture and plenty of greenery. Relax over a weekend brunch with the likes of stacked buttermilk pancakes (£12) or try the à la carte menu with a variety of raw bar items, charcuterie, small plates and wood-fired fish and meats. The terrace also has an eye-catching Champagne and cocktail bar and an unrivaled rosé selection to enjoy at the standalone bar or at your table.
PocketSquare
Located between White Chapel and Aldgate East, PocketSquare marries the formal luxury of the City with the edginess of East London in this one-of-a-kind rooftop terrace. Situated on the ninth floor of Hyatt London City East, PocketSquare seamlessly weaves artistic décor, outrageous views and distinctive cocktail and food–paired menus. One of the big drawing cards is the cutting-edge gin-led bar that showcases eight expertly crafted signature cocktails, creating new flavour profiles not found anywhere else in London. Cocktail-wise, we can personally recommend the Marketa – a truly harmonious concoction of Maker’s Mark, roasted pineapple and 1757 Rosso that goes down far too easily. Each cocktail has a recommended pairing and the Marketa’s was the addictive candied bacon – a total dream when ordered together. PocketSquare is open from the afternoons for hangouts, business drinks and parties with live music on weekends.
Boundary London
Formerly owned by revered designer and restaurateur Sir Terence Conran, Boundary London in Shoreditch is famed for its contemporary atmosphere and convivial hospitality. It’s since undergone an extensive revamp under new owner James McCulloch where summer-lovers can drink in the spectacular view of the City and East London from the stylish surroundings of the heated Rooftop orangery, bar, grill and outdoor terrace. Newly appointed Head Chef Robin Freeman (formerly of 1 Lombard Street and Ekte Nordic Kitchen) oversees the new Mediterranean-inspired menu as well as the all-day British brasserie-style offering on the brand-new ground floor bar and restaurant. Centred around a new 20-metre zinc top central bar, the ground-floor champions seasonal, sustainable British produce cooked in a casual and simple style. Choose from the likes of Lulworth Bay scallops in anchovy and parsley butter (£16) for the entree and the grilled Torbay cod (£25) for the main. Weekends is home to Saturday brunch and roasts on Sundays while drinks are served into the small hours of the morning!
The Rooftop at One Hundred Shoreditch
Cali vibes, pink marble and panoramic views. Welcome to The Rooftop at One Hundred Shoreditch, located on the 7th floor of the recently transformed hotel. With hanging plants, gorgeous outdoor seating, latin dance tunes from the DJ and a range of inventive cocktails to keep you cool, this is one of East London’s hottest rooftop hangouts. Choose from punch, sprites and margaritas, and small plates of juicy grilled king prawns, devilled eggs with mustard, sticky jackfruit tacos and soft shell crab burgers. Dress to impress and be sure to book.
The Roof Terrace at The Sloane
Make the most of the blue skies at The Roof Terrace’s luscious outdoor space lined with verdant plant walls and stylish, comfortable furniture in the heart of Chelsea. Part of a 100-year-old private members club (The Sloane Club), The Roof Terrace at The Sloane has opened to the public for the first time this year until the end of summer. Enjoy alfresco dining at its finest with its mouth-watering British and Javanese menu celebrating British summer flavours with a delicious exotic twist such as the Thai green papaya salad (£14) and the messy aromatic lemongrass chicken burger (£18). Enjoy an accompanying refreshing cocktail, mocktail or wine from the mixology team such as Aperol 1919, or a glass of crisp rosé. Friday nights bring with it live music so you can dance the night away or sit back and enjoy the vibes.
Laurel’s on the Roof
Inspired by 1970s Hollywood, Laurel’s on the Roof is a new all-day-dining and drinking hotspot infused with glamour in Zone 1. Having just opened in May, you’ll find it on the sixth floor of the new Mondrian Hotel in Shoreditch which was previously a members-only area. Laurel’s is such a hot spot that it’s still hard to secure a spot with bookings filling up months in advance over the summer! Don’t let that put you off because once you’re there, the views, cocktails and vibes make it well worth the wait. The design of Laurel’s encapsulates the laidback, yet sophisticated aesthetic of LA’s pool party scene with relaxed lounge seating, low-hanging rattan chandeliers and splashes of neon colours throughout. The tunes pay homage to the East London neighbourhood and extend to live DJ sets every Thursday, Friday and Saturday night. Tempt your tastebuds with Californian-inspired seasonal dishes and drinks that incorporate bold flavours served in 70’s inspired glassware. We have to say, one of the standout features is the rooftop pool but this is exclusive to Curtain Club members and hotel guests so you may want to consider booking in for a night to enjoy everything Laurels’ on the Roof has to offer.
The Wigmore Summer Terrace and Garden
Just off Regent Street you’ll find The Wigmore Summer Terrace and Garden which has partnered up with The luxurious Langham Hotel. The perfect spot to meet up with friends, family or a date, this gorgeous oasis is an enclosure of pretty greenery. Climbing plants creep up and down the pergolas showing off flashes of fushia pink amongst the foliage. Heat lamps blend into the background – both freestanding and overhead the big round tables. There’s covered areas too, so should you become victim to the British weather, there’s somewhere to dive under, and what’s more, with drinks from Artesian, and food from the legendary Michel Roux Jr, you can’t really go far wrong!
The Dorchester Rooftop
Let Hyde Park be the backdrop to your sunset Courvoisier cocktails at the newly reopened speakeasy-style pop-up bar and lounge at The Dorchester Rooftop. With the menu taking on a Mediterranean vibe for this summer devised by Jean-Philippe Blondet (Exec Chef at Alain Ducasse at The Dorchester), you’d be forgiven for thinking you’ve been transported from the ninth floor of the hotel, to one of the idyllic towns gracing the French and Italian riviera! Summer cocktails boast a tempting range of herbs and fruits, while the menu features seasonal, flavoursome dishes finished with a creative twist (think lobster roll and truffle mushroom pizza) and presented with three-Michelin-star service. Open daily, the rooftop features alluring artwork, classic Dorchester interiors, live music and the option to keep the party going well into the night at some fabulous dance floor in neighbouring Mayfair.
Le Petit Beefbar
Chelsea’s neighbourhood restaurant Le Petit Beefbar has opened a brand new terrace – perfect for some alfresco action whether you’re eating or drinking. Try the Beefbar Daisy tequila based cocktail, made with Olmeca Altos Blanco tequila, crème de cassis, homemade jalapeno cordial, fresh lime juice and agave syrup, and tuck into delicious dishes like Miso black beef, filet mignon, or baby spinach salad. Open daily 12-10pm, this one’s definitely worth a visit next time you’re in West London.
Radio Rooftop
The rooftop bar of the ME London Hotel is set on top of the former BBC building in London’s West End. It’s a design-lovers dream with big name DJs, a sleek asymmetric look and a wrap-around balcony so you can soak up the sun. With a view of many of London’s most iconic landmarks including The Shard, St Paul’s Cathedral and The London Eye, Radio Rooftop offers up a mix of bar seating, tables and plush-looking couches with muted tones throughout. Arguably, one of London’s most well-known rooftops, it has a great atmosphere and is only a stone’s throw away from some of the capital’s best nightclubs. The bar boasts an exciting and inventive cocktail list (with more than 15 different variations on the classic gin and tonic) served with seasonal, locally sourced tapas-style plates. The dress code is very much “to impress” and reservations are recommended.
Sushisamba London Heron Tower
Sushisamba near Liverpool Street is the highest outdoor dining terrace in Europe so you’re guaranteed some of the best skyline views in London. You’ll be whisked up in a glass elevator before arriving at the 39th floor of the Heron Tower to breathtaking views, a lively atmosphere in a colourful setting, fresh food and a wide selection of sake. You’re spoilt for choice with the option to taste the Japanese-Brazilian-Peruvian cuisine at the main terrace dotted with lounge sofas, dining tables and front-row seats to amazing views over the London skyline. Or enjoy a tipple and bite from the Bar Menu at the Tree Terrace, featuring the restaurant’s iconic orange tree, or the East Terrace with views of north and east London. The open kitchen and fiery robata grill offer brilliantly roasted and flavoured meats, vegetables and fish, while Sushisamba’s conceptual small plate style of service encourages a “shared” dining experience. There are often DJs and performances too, plus it’s open until 3 am on the weekend, which makes it quite the party spot!
The Rooftop at The Trafalgar
One of Luxe Bible’s favourites is The Rooftop at The Trafalgar which overlooks, you guessed it, Trafalgar Square. It’s exactly the kind of plush bar you would expect to find in this affluent neighbourhood but without the added snobbery. In fact, it’s incredibly cosy and welcoming with a minimalist aesthetic and attentive service that makes the price tag worth it. It’s the perfect place for enjoying an alfresco-crafted cocktail (make sure you try the Old Fashioned) from the long drinks list, or nibbling on some pan-Asian small plates. From crudos to carpaccio, fresh focaccia, seasonal salads and sashimi (and plenty for the vegan diner too), we’d say 4 or 5 small dishes is just the perfect amount for a rooftop cool-off with friends for lunch or dinner. The laid-back atmosphere is helped by the tropical house soundtrack and 7th-floor location, making you feel removed from the hustle and bustle back down on the ground.
The ITALICUS X Madison Terrace
Looking for a Mediterranean-inspired getaway without leaving the capital? This summer, Madison has teamed up with the Italian Aperitivo brand ITALICUS Rosolio di Bergamotto to give the terrace an Amalfi makeover with lemon trees and vibrant floral arrangements to compliment the new spritz drinks list. It’s the perfect spot to sit back and relax amongst lush, verdant foliage – evocative of Amalfi coast vistas – and sip on delectable cocktails that transport you to the heady glamour of warm Mediterranean climes. Some ITALICUS signatures include the Summer G&T with Plymouth Gin, lemon juice, elderflower tonic and olives along with the Bergaroni mixed with Luxardo Bitter Bianco, Plymouth Dry Gin, Chinotto Liqueur and Bergamot Tuille, all for £15. Not to mention, the delicious tapas and mezze boards, all set against the stunning backdrop of St Paul’s Cathedral.
Pergola Paraíso at Pergola Paddington
Pergola Paddington has transformed into a brand new summertime pop-up, Pergola Paraíso, which is here to stay until the end of summer. An escapist paradise with feel-good summer energy, the Tulum-inspired beach club takes its cues from the balmy beaches of Mexico, with an immersive drinking and dining experience like no other. Pergola Paraíso is awash with palm trees, wicker chairs and sofas, hammocks and cabana day beds, plus a dance floor with DJs, dancers, fire performers and live percussionists! Pop-up restaurants from the likes of Crudo Cevicheria and Dos Mas Tacos and, naturally, an extensive menu of Margaritas, make this one of London’s hottest rooftop terraces. The best part is it’s largely free to enter with no ticket required but you will need to get there early to avoid the queues. If East London is more your vibe, then make sure you check out Pergola Canary Wharf perched on the northern dock where you can enjoy those sun-bathed afternoons amongst the indoor foliage or outside in the 200-capacity terrace which wraps around the venue.
Veuve Clicquot X Aqua Neuva
Exciting and contemporary Spanish restaurant Aqua Neuva is celebrating all things Veuve Clicquot having transformed its captivating rooftop terrace in the heart of the West End. If you ask us, nothing screams summer more than a crisp cold glass of champagne or indeed the bottle, served on ice! The bar has been designed to reflect the “solaire” nature of the terrace with the world-famous Veuve Clicquot Pantone yellow accented throughout (definitely a photo op for the ‘Gram!). The restaurant is perfectly situated on the 5th floor of an Art Deco building with views overlooking the best parts of London including Hyde Park and the Thames. Available for reservation and walk-ins, the sleek lounge area is the perfect spot to enjoy the newly-launched bespoke pairing menu featuring Aqua Nueva’s contemporary and innovative tapas with the iconic Champagne house. Dishes include rustic tomato bread and wild mushroom croquettes paired with Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label and spicy fried chicken with paprika aioli paired to enhance the natural beauty of Veuve Clicquot Yellow Rosé. The pairing menu will be available daily from midday and ranges from £150 – £325 but you can also enjoy Champagne by the glass.
Queen of Hoxton
Queen of Hoxton is known for its ever-changing rooftop and this year, they’ve put a cherry on top. ‘Cherry Blossom Garden’ is our favourite theme yet: think brightly coloured feature walls, astro turf grass, lanterns, pergolas and plenty of foliage making for an Instagram-worthy backdrop. You can leave the streets of Shoreditch behind as you sip their signature cocktails including Cherry Blossom mixed with rum, vodka, sake, orange and pineapple (£11) and tuck into scrumptiously themed food, all for a little as a tenner. The bar-club hybrid is dressed under the city’s prettiest pink petals so you won’t have to travel far to enjoy the fist-pumping action of a thriving dancefloor as the afternoon turns to night. The rooftop operates on a first-come, first-served basis so it’s best to arrive early to secure your spot at one of East’s trendiest rooftop destinations.
Savage Garden
Having opened in 2108, Savage Garden is still London’s ‘wildest’ terrace, located twelve floors above the Hilton DoubleTree hotel in Tower Hill. The rooftop, which protrudes out from the bar area, is long with plenty of space for mixing and mingling. With dark modern interiors and a cut-throat menu, Savage garden is “brutal yet sultry, urban yet opulent” and provides something completely different to the traditional offering in London. The cocktail menu is as creative and exciting as the views and the decor, with innovative cocktails such as Horny Beast (£15) – a more-ish combo of Beefeater pink gin, Aluna coconut rum, almond, lime, green strawberry, smoke and oak bitters, apple, and rhubarb and cinnamon soda. If the savage cocktails weren’t enough, you need to try the theatrically presented food, ranging from sharing plates through to substantial mains and feasting boards – just make sure you leave room for the injectable doughnuts!
Seabird
With a beautiful alfresco terrace, marble tabletops, panoramic views of the City and London’s largest Oyster menu, Seabird is a serious contender for the title of the capital’s best rooftop bar. Located on the 14th floor of The Hoxton Southwark, nabbing a seat at this idyllic location feels like securing a little slice of heaven on earth. The Spanish-Portuguese restaurant serves up an array of sea-to-table options including lavish seafood platters (£200), whole boneless sea bass fish with mojo verde (£55) as well as meat dishes such as the Iberico pork (£26). There is an excellent selection of biodynamic wines from some of Europe’s best small-scale producers, and the cocktails are fun and fruity, including the frozen Paloma cocktail, made with Patron Silver, Martini Bitter and grapefruit as well as sharing cocktails, such as the Calypso Punch, served in a glorious fish jug. Every Friday, there will also be a roster of DJs taking to the decks to provide the ambience as you watch the golden sun fade into the night.
Rosewood London X Patrón
If summer for you is synonymous with a Mexican fiesta, check out the Rosewood London new courtyard in collaboration with Patrón Tequila. La Veranda offers the perfect suntrap to spend long days sipping Simply Perfect Patrón cocktails – including the famed Patrón Paloma – surrounded by serene water features, colourful ceramics and plentiful agave. The hotel’s Edwardian courtyard will transport you from the heart of the city to a Tulum-inspired hideaway with Latin-infused live music and Mexican decor. Alfresco dining will be on offer from brunch to dinner, with dishes inspired by Rosewood’s Mexican properties including the tableside guacamole (£11), handmade tacos (from £14) and plates reminiscent of pot roast pink snapper, ancho chili, cherry tomatoes, tequila and herbs (£36). Wash all of it down with a shot of tequila and you might just feel as if you’re on a mini-vacation.
The Prince
Known as London’s ‘largest beer garden,’ The Prince in West Brompton is always packed with party-goers in the summertime thanks to its hanging plants, neon signs and woodland garden. The large converted pub-turned-beer-garden is set across three floors with a retractable roof and comprises four restaurants and three bars meaning you’ll be spoiled for choice. On the menu is a host of rotating street food options including exciting pop-ups such as burger joint Filth&Co., hand-rolled sushi favourites Temaki and Nonna Madonna who serve up Neapolitan pizzas. There are also plenty of beers, cocktails, spritzers, wine and no-alcohol options to cool you down on those scorching summer days. Established by the same people who brought you Pergola on the Roof, it’s the ideal summer hangout.
Tattu
Much-loved restaurant flagship Tattu has recently opened the doors to its first London location and we couldn’t be more excited. A firm favourite in Manchester, Birmingham, Edinburgh and Leeds, Tattu has already established a cult-like following for its delicious dishes and Instagrammable locations and the West End location promises to be no different. Tattu’s modern Chinese menu includes dishes that are made to be shared, with beautifully presented small plates and a colourful array of dim sum. There’s a whole new menu in honour of their London menu, with XO Scallops, Royal Koi Fish Gau and Szechuan Red Pork Belly all featuring. For a sweet finale, you can indulge in creative treats such as the Cherry Blossom (rightly named to match the cherry blossoms featured throughout) with white chocolate, cherry sorbet and candyfloss which comes with dry ice mist making it almost too pretty to eat. Cocktails swing from a Silken Shadow with notes of chocolate, hazelnut and caramel to a Maohattan with Sazerac Rye, Vermouth and oolong tea. With a design inspired by a traditional Chinese Courtyard House, the crown jewel lies on the Rooftop Terrace, boasting unrivaled views over the capital, perfect for intimate alfresco gatherings and drinks.
New Terrace, RoofGarden by Booking Office 1869
Having launched last year, Booking Office 1869’s summer terrace – RoofGarden, is a verdant and secluded space in the heart of King’s Cross. The epitome of a secret garden, RoofGarden by Booking Office 1869 serves a snack-style menu from its indoor counterpart alongside a refreshing array of cocktails, wines and beers. The terrace cocktail menu will feature classics such as Pimms Cup, Margarita, Negroni and Aperol Spritz. Alongside drinks, you can tuck into a host of light sharing plates and sweet treats, from crispy calamari and the charcuterie platter to seasonal Eton Mess and a selection of ice cream. One of the lesser know but equally appealing rooftops, it’s much easiest to secure a spot at this North London hotspot.
