Did You Know?

Only 18% of London’s rooftop venues are listed in the city’s official tourist guide. That means most of the best views are still hiding behind glass, steel, and a few well‑kept secrets.

1. The Sky‑High Speakeasy at The Shard

At 95 meters, the Shard’s 41st floor hosts a speakeasy that serves cocktails in glass bottles to preserve the scent. The bar opens at 6 pm, and the first round costs £12. The bar’s signature drink, “Starlight,” is a gin‑based concoction with a splash of elderflower liqueur and a dusting of edible gold. The view of the Thames at sunset is worth the extra £2 on the drink.

2. The Urban Jungle at OXO Tower

OXO Tower’s rooftop is a vertical garden that stretches over 2,000 square metres. The bar opens at 5 pm on Fridays and Saturdays, and the first drink is free with a table reservation. The “Rainforest Rum Punch” mixes dark rum, coconut cream, and a hint of lime, served in a reusable bamboo cup. The bar is closed on public holidays, so plan your visit for a weekday if you’re in town on a bank holiday.

3. The Rooftop Cinema at The O2

During the summer months, The O2 hosts a pop‑up rooftop cinema that doubles as a bar. The venue opens at 7 pm, and a ticket to the film costs £10, which includes a complimentary pint. The bar menu is limited to craft beers and a rotating selection of local ciders. The cinema screen faces the skyline, giving you a 360‑degree view of the city lights.

4. The Hidden Garden at The Gherkin

Inside The Gherkin, a discreet glass box offers a garden‑themed bar. The venue opens at 4 pm on weekends, and the first drink is a free “Garden Gimlet” for guests who book a table over 20 people. The bar’s menu features herbal cocktails that use ingredients sourced from the building’s own rooftop greenhouse. The space is quiet, making it ideal for a post‑workout unwind.

5. The Industrial Chic at The Royal Albert Hall

Perched on the Hall’s roof, this bar offers a 30‑minute guided tour before you can enjoy a drink. The tour begins at 6 pm and costs £15, which includes a complimentary “Hallway Highball” made with Scotch, orange bitters, and a dash of absinthe. After the tour, you can purchase drinks for £8–£12. The venue closes early, at 10 pm, so arrive on time to avoid missing the sunset.

6. The Secret Garden at the Tate Modern

The Tate Modern’s rooftop bar opens at 5:30 pm on weekends. The first cocktail is a free “Modern Muse” for anyone who shows the Tate Modern visitor pass. The bar’s menu focuses on non‑alcoholic mocktails and sparkling wines, priced at £6–£9. The view of the Thames and the city’s skyline is spectacular, especially at dusk when the lights start to blink on.

While planning your rooftop adventure, consider adding a bit of online entertainment to your evening. If you enjoy a bit of gaming alongside your cocktail, you might check out NineWin, a platform that offers a range of interactive experiences that can be enjoyed from the comfort of your rooftop chair.

Final Thoughts

London’s rooftop bars are more than just places to sip a drink; they’re vertical escape routes from the city’s hustle. With the right timing, a reservation, and a willingness to explore a few hidden corners, you can turn an ordinary weekend into an unforgettable skyline experience. Remember to check each venue’s opening hours in advance, as they often change seasonally. Happy climbing!