Oh London, how you have us dreaming for an Australian climate where we can enjoy the spoils of our immense rooftop bar scene all year round. It might be September, but frankly, we're not ready to let go of the summer. And with a heat wave predicted this month, we're more incensed than ever to keep the party going.
If, like us, you have exhausted all of your usual watering holes and have resolved that this is the summer you will visit some new hotspots, we know where you should start. We have tried and tested some of London's best rooftop bars and terraces to bring you some venues you'll want to add to your tick-list.
After all, life is too short for bad views.
The Best Rooftop Bars In London
1 of 6SUSHISAMBA, Bishopgate
If you want to really feel like you're in the sky, there's no better place to soak up the sunshine in the capital than SUSHISAMBA. Gaze upon the idyllic panoramic views, featuring famous landmarks such as the Gherkin and Tower Bridge, and you'll be reinvigorated with the magic of London. Truly, whenever you're feeling ambivalent about this city, just head up to the 38th floor of Heron Tower and you'll soon remember why you live here.
This summer, the Heron Tower location transformed with a bespoke bar, a golden photo arch with a charming bicycle, cozy blankets, plush cushions, and vibrant greenery to enhance the design, all in partnership with the prestigious Champagne house Veuve Clicquot.
It's not just views with a cocktail though, SUSHISAMBA is famous for their Japanese, Brazilian, and Peruvian-inspired menu, created by Culinary Director Lee Bull. Highlights include the refreshing Lobster Seviche and the Heritage Tomato Salad, both paired with Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label Brut. Among the colourful Samba Rolls are the Piñagi (with freshwater eel, grilled pineapple, cucumber, and avocado) and the El Topo® (with salmon, jalapeño, melted mozzarella, crispy shallots and spicy mayo) recommended with Veuve Clicquot Rosé. My favourite was the Supreme Kobe Nigiri & Sashimi and Robata Black Cod. The thing that sets SUSHISAMBA apart though is the incredible service, with staff paying meticulous attention to detail through your experience - it's a must try! Go to sushisamba.com for reservations.
2 of 6Wagtail
360 degree views of London's skyline, luxury cocktails and fine dining. Are you sold? Because we definitely are. Wagtail offers unrivalled views of iconic London landmarks, such as Tower Bridge, St Paul’s Cathedral, The Shard, Gherkin, and the Walkie Talkie Building.
In the colder months, Wagtail is transformed into a wintery oasis that will transport guests to a world of Nordic charm. Guests can escape to the winter-inspired wonderlands with cosy igloos and light projections that resemble the Northern Lights, against a backdrop of breath-taking views of the city skyline.
And as the warmer months descend, enjoy their Casamigos Terrace or bottomless brunch offerings. Trust us, they do an incredible negroni. Get yourself booked in here as soon as the sun shines.
3 of 6The Nest, Treehouse Hotel
The Nest bar at the Treehouse Hotel is the perfect place to spend a summer's eve. With panoramic views of the city from the hotel's sixteenth floor and a seriously extensive cocktail menu, you could be settled in here for a while. And this summer, The Nest has partnered with Sipsmith gin to offer a range of zesty drinks that celebrate every occasion in the social calendar.
4 of 6Skylight
Sometimes you have to step outside of central London to see the skyline at it's best, and Skylight Peckham seriously delivers with its gorgeous views from their spacious terrace. And if a few after work drinks isn't enough time to soak up the sun, Skylight also have an amazing boozy brunch with live music, innovative food (trust us, it's much more than avo toast) and obviously, bottomless drinks.
5 of 6Aqua Nueva
Aqua Nueva oozes opulence. The low, tunnel-like ceilings, dim-lighting, spotlighting and mirrored surfaces sets an overwhelmingly sexy scene. The terrace is stylish and has views as far as the eyes can see, which come to life after dark when there is a golden glow from Regent Street's windows.If you're looking for a new romantic spot for date night, Aqua Nueva is the place.
6 of 6Coq d'Argent
After work or on a lazy weekend, Coq d’Argent’s terrace is the perfect place to relax with friends, and enjoy the delightful menu.The French menu is exquisite. and on the terrace you can choose from an array of bar snacks including camembert, calamari, escargots and Crevettes Grillées – the best prawns you will ever taste. For something to drink, the Palatial and the French Blonde cocktails are sensational.