London Rooftop Bars: Where to Go from Sunrise to Last Orders

London rooftop bars aren’t just for tourists hungry for a selfie; these spots are part of the city’s living, breathing social scene. If you’re a Londoner or just passing through, missing out on the city from above is like skipping the cream on your scone. It’s more than just the view—these rooftops have become the meeting points for everything from business lunches to birthday cocktails. There’s a bar up high for every type of occasion: fresh brunches as the city wakes, lazy afternoon catch-ups, golden-hour shots of The Shard, and DJ-led rooftop parties once the sun drops behind St Paul’s.

Booking ahead matters—especially in summer—because London’s rooftop venues fill up fast, sometimes weeks in advance. Many bars switch up their vibe during the day, pulling in a morning crowd with flat whites and pastries and turning into lively hangouts by evening, so it helps to check their schedule. Don’t forget, the British weather can be wild, even in June; always scout for spots with covered areas or heaters. Keep an eye out for happy hours or bottomless brunches—they’re not just for students. With smart planning, you can turn a regular catch-up into something with a view worth sharing.

• Start with Sunrise: Rooftop Brunches
• Afternoon Lounging: Casual Drinks with a View
• Sunset in the City: Where Skyline Meets Social
• When the Stars Come Out: Nightlife at New Heights
• Weather-Proof Options: Rain or Shine
• Pro Tips: Booking, Dress Codes, and Hidden Gems

Start with Sunrise: Rooftop Brunches

Nothing beats the feeling of rising above the city for brunch, especially when you’re staring out at the London skyline instead of the same four walls. Some rooftop bars in London open early just for this reason, grabbing the morning crowd before the tourists even start queuing for the Eye. Brunch isn’t just about eggs anymore—a lot of rooftops have proper barista coffee, loaded breakfast bowls, and sometimes even a cheeky cocktail menu if you want your day to start with a fizz.

If you want a reliable rooftop for brunch, Madison near St Paul’s is a favourite. They open their open-air terrace early, and you get a direct view of the cathedral dome that’s tough to beat. Pergola Paddington is another spot with covered rooftop dining, so you’re safe from surprise drizzle. Weekend slots fill up quick, especially during summer when the city finally remembers what sunshine looks like.

The best deals and menus usually pop up at these times:

• Madison Brunch: Saturdays and Sundays from 11:30am—with live DJs for a real “London brunch” vibe
• Pergola Paddington: Opens at 12pm, offering bottomless prosecco add-ons
• Queen of Hoxton: Opens 12pm, with rooftop BBQ breakfasts in summer

According to a recent poll from Time Out London, over half of local young professionals said they choose a rooftop venue for brunch over regular cafés when weather allows.

"Rooftop brunch is as much about catching up with mates as getting that perfect view of London. It’s a slice of escape without actually leaving the city,"

Not sure what you’ll get for your money? Here’s a quick look at what to expect pricewise:

If you want to snag a seat, always book ahead. Londoners love to take their brunch sky-high, and walk-ins are rare on weekends. And if you’re after a less crowded option, some locals swear by Coq d’Argent in the City for its rooftop garden and quieter weekday mornings. For any rooftop brunch in London, don’t forget your sunglasses—even if the forecast says clouds. The glare gets real up there.

For standout London rooftop bars, an early start is your fast track to a relaxed vibe, proper food, and a view that still feels a bit like a secret—even if you’re sharing it with half the city.

Sunset in the City: Where Skyline Meets Social

There’s something about a London sunset that flips the switch on every rooftop in town—it turns after-work drinks into a must-do moment. This is prime time for most London rooftop bars. The city lights up, and the views honestly steal the show. Not all rooftops are created equal at sunset though; some have wow-factor angles, while others get packed quick and lose their edge fast. Here’s how to do it right.

If you want the pick of the bunch for skyline views and a good crowd—not just Instagrammers but real Londoners—try Madison. It sits right by St Paul’s Cathedral and delivers views that even locals still rave about. You’ll find City workers winding down, groups of mates, and a few tourists who read the right blog. Expect upbeat tunes and decent cocktails, but do yourself a favour and book ahead for a sunset slot; walk-ins end up waiting ages, especially on Fridays.

Sky Garden is another favourite for those who like a bit of green with their glass. At 35 floors above Fenchurch Street, you get a jungle vibe with your London panorama, and best of all, entry is free if you plan ahead online. Drinks aren’t cheap, but you’re really paying for that wraparound view. For something less obvious, and honestly more chill, check out Queen of Hoxton in Shoreditch. It leans younger, has seasonal themes (think pink flamingos or tiki bars), and casual seating, making it a go-to for creative types and those skipping the suit vibe.

Wondering what time London’s sunset usually hits? It shifts a lot, but here’s a rough idea for prime months:

Try to get there about 45 minutes before—sunset crowds start early. Don’t forget, dress codes can be a thing at places with a City postcode. Trainers and sports jerseys? Usually a no-go after 5pm. Smart casual won’t let you down.

One more pro tip: ask if your table will face west. East-facing rooftops miss the main show, and there’s nothing worse than being stuck behind a concrete column just as the sky lights up orange. If you’re thinking summer, these spots fill out by 7pm, but off-season months can actually mean more space and still great sunsets, if you’re willing to brave a breeze.

When the Stars Come Out: Nightlife at New Heights

London doesn't mess about when it comes to rooftop nightlife. As soon as offices empty and the sun dips, rooftops all over the city switch gears and crank up the energy. Whether you’re looking for chilled-out beats or a full-on party, there’s a spot for you—and the views get even better with the city lights on. For many, this experience has become a staple part of London rooftop bars culture.

Sky Garden is an obvious choice, but still worth it for the weekday vibe. Entry is free if you book ahead, and the Sky Pod Bar tends to host live DJs from Thursday through Saturday. Expect a dress code (no sports shorts and trainers), but the atmosphere is relaxed—think after-work crowd mixing with birthday groups. Drinks aren't cheap, but the walk-around garden and panorama across the Thames more than make up for it.

If you’re in the mood for something less touristy, check out Madison near St Paul’s. This place is famous for its rooftop parties, especially when the weather is decent, and their live music sessions on weekends are always a hit with locals. For those up for a more exclusive vibe, Seabird in Southwark has one of the top London oyster bars and a moody setting that leans into late-night dates or wind-downs with mates. Keep your phone ready for skyline photos—St Paul’s dome looks mental from here at night.

For proper club action, head to Roof East in Stratford. Over the past few years, this spot has turned car parking into a playground, with street food, giant Jenga, rooftop cinema, and regular DJ nights. The crowd is younger, the cocktails are fun, and the place doesn’t take itself too seriously. Keep in mind, it’s easier to get in before 9 pm or after midnight on busy weekends.

Worried about queues or getting caught out by last-minute plans? Lots of rooftop bars use apps like DesignMyNight or OpenTable for booking. Some (like The Aviary or 12th Knot) hold tables for walk-ins later in the evening if you’re out spontaneously. The vibe across these places? Social but not stuck up—most folks just want good drinks, a breeze, and a banging London skyline.

Weather-Proof Options: Rain or Shine

Planning a night at one of London rooftop bars can feel like flipping a coin with the city’s unpredictable weather. No one wants a wet pint or soggy chips. The good news is, plenty of rooftop venues in London have wised up and now pack in more than just the view. Some spots have covered terraces, retractable roofs, and outdoor heaters, giving you the rooftop vibe without soaking your socks.

Take Madison near St Paul’s, for example. Their glass canopy means the iconic dome looks just as great through raindrops, and you won’t be darting between umbrellas. Then there’s Radio Rooftop on The Strand—one of the most popular choices for locals and visiting celebs alike. Their smart layout lets you move from indoor lounge to terrace in seconds, covering all seasons. To quote Time Out London’s nightlife editor:

"London’s best rooftops have finally realised their regulars will come back for good food and service, as long as there’s shelter from a sudden downpour."

Here’s what to look out for if you want to keep things weatherproof while still catching that city skyline:

• Retractable roofs: Venues like Aviary in Finsbury Square can close the roof in a snap when clouds roll in. You don’t lose the view or the vibe.
• Heated terraces: Queen of Hoxton swaps out its rooftop theme every season, but there’s always a heater nearby when temperatures drop.
• Flexible booking policies: Check if your bar of choice offers free rebooking if things get really stormy—some, like The Culpeper in Spitalfields, do this especially during weekends.
• All-weather menus: See if a place like Pergola Paddington adds hot cocktails and toasty snacks to the lineup when it’s cold out.

Another tip: It’s not just about beating the rain. These weather-ready rooftops often offer less-crowded, comfier hangs in winter and autumn, when most tourists have packed away their summer dreams. So, with London’s famously moody skies, a little planning goes a long way for your next round above the rooftops.

Pro Tips: Booking, Dress Codes, and Hidden Gems

Bagging a table at London rooftop bars isn’t just about luck. Planning gets you the best seats, saves you from queuing, and means you won’t end up standing by the loo. Most London rooftops, like Radio Rooftop and Madison, let you book online, and some drop last-minute slots on their socials. Expect peak times—Thursday to Saturday nights—get snapped up at least a week out. For big events, like Wimbledon screenings or New Year’s fireworks, think a month ahead.

Don’t get caught out by the dress code. London rooftops might look carefree, but many play by the 'smart casual' rule. Jeans are fine but trainers can go either way—places like Sky Garden are okay, but SushiSamba sometimes turns people away for sporty outfits. When in doubt, swap trainers for boots or smart shoes and leave the gym wear at home.

If you’re trying to dodge the city’s rooftop crowds or find something different, there are some lesser-known spots locals love:

• Queen of Hoxton – Shoreditch’s all-weather, seasonal rooftop with quirky themes year-round (it’s where you get Christmas rooftops done right).
• Dalston Roof Park – Feels more like a community garden with music, films, and zero pretension.
• Netil 360 – Hackney’s go-to for freelancers by day, cool drinks by night, and a crowd that’s usually up for a chat.
• Bussey Building – On warm evenings in Peckham, their rooftop film club is a must.

Certain rooftops get creative with their reservation policies—some require a pre-paid deposit, especially for busy nights, and most have a time limit per booking, usually 90 minutes to two hours. If you’re celebrating something, mention it at booking. You might get a prime view or a complimentary drink.

One last thing: rooftops aren’t always step-free. If you need accessible access, check the venue’s website or call ahead. Most larger venues like Sky Garden and Madison have lifts, but small indie rooftops sometimes don’t.