Discover London’s Sky-High Nightlife
London’s skyline has transformed into a playground for rooftop bars, where you can sip cocktails with the Shard as your backdrop. Whether you're a local, expat, or tourist, finding the perfect spot for a night out in rooftop bars London can be overwhelming. Let's cut through the noise and explore the top spots that deliver unforgettable experiences.
Top 5 Rooftop Bars in London
Sky Garden is a free-to-enter rooftop oasis on the 35th floor of 20 Fenchurch Street. It offers panoramic views of London's landmarks like the Tower Bridge and St Paul's Cathedral. Visitors need to book in advance via their website. The space features lush greenery, a bar with affordable drinks (gin and tonic starts at £9), and live music on weekends. It's perfect for casual outings-just avoid bringing large bags or backpacks.
The Ned sits in the heart of the City of London. This historic bank building houses multiple bars, including the opulent Library Bar and the rooftop Den. The Den serves classic cocktails like the London Fog (£18) with views of St Paul's Cathedral. Dress code is smart casual-no trainers or shorts. Book online weeks ahead for weekend slots.
1 Below is The Ned's hidden speakeasy. Enter through a disguised phone booth in the basement. The intimate space serves expertly crafted drinks like the Smoked Old Fashioned (₹22) in dim lighting. It’s ideal for date nights-reserve at least a month in advance. No children allowed, and strict ID checks apply.
The View at The Shard offers the highest vantage point in London. Located on floors 68-72, the bar serves premium cocktails like the Shard Spritz (₹25) with views stretching 40 miles on clear days. The price reflects the experience, but the sunset views justify it. Book via their website; arrive early for prime seating.
Cowshed at Soho Hotel is a hidden garden bar in Soho. It feels like a secret oasis with fairy lights, herb gardens, and a retractable roof. The English Rose Gin cocktail (₹16) pairs perfectly with the floral setting. Dress code is relaxed-jeans and sneakers are fine. No reservations needed for small groups, but it fills up fast on summer evenings.
| Name | Location | View | Price Range | Dress Code |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sky Garden | 35th floor, 20 Fenchurch Street | 360° city skyline | Free entry, drinks from £9 | Smart casual |
| The Ned | 27 Poultry, City of London | St Paul's Cathedral | Cocktails from £18 | Smart casual (no sportswear) |
| 1 Below | Basement of The Ned | Hidden speakeasy vibe | Cocktails from £22 | Smart casual |
| The View at The Shard | 31 St Thomas Street, SE1 | 40-mile skyline views | Cocktails from £25 | Smart casual |
| Cowshed at Soho Hotel | 15-17 Old Bond Street, W1 | Garden oasis | Cocktails from £16 | Relaxed (jeans okay) |
What to Expect at London Rooftop Bars
Dress codes vary but follow a simple rule: no beachwear or ripped jeans. For places like The Ned or The View, think smart casual-collared shirts, tailored trousers, or dresses. Sky Garden and Cowshed are more relaxed but still avoid flip-flops or baseball caps. Most venues charge for drinks but not entry, though Sky Garden requires free advance bookings. Expect queues during summer weekends; arrive by 6 PM to skip lines.
London weather affects rooftop experiences. If it’s raining, check if the bar has a retractable roof (like Cowshed) or indoor sections. The View at The Shard has glass walls, so rain won’t ruin views. For colder months, bring a light jacket-rooftops get windier than street level. Pro tip: Thursday nights are quieter than Fridays for better service and shorter waits.
Pro Tips for a Perfect Rooftop Night
- Book weeks ahead for weekends. Sky Garden opens bookings 4 weeks in advance; The Ned takes reservations 2 months out.
- Use the London Pass for discounted entry to The View at The Shard (saves £10).
- For budget-friendly options, visit Sky Garden before 7 PM-drink prices drop after 6 PM.
- Avoid the City of London (The Ned) on bank holidays; it’s packed with office workers.
- Check weather apps before heading out. A clear day means stunning views; foggy days turn the Shard into a ghostly silhouette.
Local Secrets: Hidden Gems
Most tourists know Sky Garden and The Ned, but locals love The Rooftop at the Hoxton Hotel in Shoreditch. It’s a no-frills spot with cheap cocktails (gin fizz at £12) and graffiti-covered walls. The view of the City skyline from Shoreditch feels raw and authentic. Another hidden gem is Roof Gardens in Kensington-a tropical garden bar with a £5 gin and tonic special on weekdays. It’s a 15-minute Tube ride from central London, but worth it for the quiet, green escape.
Do I need to book a rooftop bar in London in advance?
Yes, most popular spots like Sky Garden and The Ned require advance bookings. Sky Garden opens reservations 4 weeks ahead; The Ned takes bookings up to 2 months in advance. For 1 Below, you must reserve via The Ned’s website weeks before. Walk-ins are possible at Cowshed or The Hoxton Rooftop, but expect to wait during peak hours.
What’s the best time to visit rooftop bars in London?
For views, visit just before sunset-around 5:30 PM in summer. This avoids crowds and gives you golden-hour lighting for photos. Weekdays (Tuesday-Thursday) are quieter than weekends. If you’re on a budget, go before 7 PM for cheaper drink prices at Sky Garden. For a lively vibe, Fridays at The Ned’s Den have live jazz from 8 PM.
Are rooftop bars in London expensive?
Prices vary. Sky Garden offers affordable drinks (gin and tonic at £9), while The View at The Shard charges £25+ per cocktail. The Ned’s Den is mid-range (£18-£22), and 1 Below is pricier (£22+). For budget options, try Cowshed (gin fizz at £16) or The Hoxton Rooftop (gin fizz at £12). Always check happy hour deals-many bars have 5-7 PM discounts.
What should I wear to a rooftop bar in London?
Smart casual is standard for most venues-think collared shirts, nice jeans, or dresses. Avoid trainers, shorts, or sportswear at The Ned or The View. Sky Garden and Cowshed are more relaxed (jeans and clean sneakers are fine), but flip-flops or beachwear won’t get you in. For 1 Below, dress sharply-no casual outfits allowed. Always check the venue’s website before going.
Can I bring kids to rooftop bars in London?
Most rooftop bars in London are adults-only. Sky Garden allows children but restricts access after 8 PM. The Ned and The View have age limits of 18+. 1 Below is strictly over-18. Cowshed permits children during daytime but not in the evening. If you need family-friendly options, try the rooftop at The Hoxton Hotel-kids are welcome until 7 PM.
