Discover London's latest destination rooftop bars and terraces...

Jurema at The Mandrake hotel

At the heart of electric Mandrake hotel (in Fitzrovia) is Jurema, designed by world renowned landscape architects Bureau Bas Smets. The Jurema bar on the first-floor terrace (on the palm tree-studded inner courtyard) is a laid-back cabana affair surrounded by a lush, evergreen sanctuary of hanging passion flower and jasmine plants with a wooden shack-style bar and raffia seating – designed the gardens of Babylon and overlooks the private courtyard of the ground floor Waeska bar- serving up botanical-based cocktails. On the second floor terrace, there's a glasshouse apothecary full of exotic medicinal plants, which can be used for private hire and dining. Definitely one to check in to.

The Rooftop at The Trafalgar St. James

The rooftop at the recently re-opened The Trafalgar St. James hotel (previously known as The Vista bar) surpasses the city’s finest when it comes to alfresco drinking and dining against the backdrop of London’s iconic skyline. The Mediterranean-style lounge (recently refurbished) comes complete with al fresco and canopy-covered seating. Additionally, there is also ROOM – a glass enclosed private dining room with space for 14, offering spectacular views onto Trafalgar Square. This ( south-facing) sky-high space is an ideal spot for drinking in the inimitable city views. Expect classic sundowner cocktails and Asian-style bar bites. Closed Mondays & Tuesdays.

Asahi 'Moon Garden' at Untitled

The Asahi Moon Garden (open from 18th May) is a 20-cover Zen like space (inspired by historic Japanese temple gardens) accessible to the rear of Untitled. The decked garden (complete with herb wall and charcoal grill) area offers a dedicated Asahi Super Dry bar with an extended sake list and garden cocktail menu. Each weekend, the garden hosts a Japanese-style yakitori open-grill and on sundays - guest chefs from some of London’s leading restaurants take the reins of the open-air grill to serve a one-off yakitori skewer menu in the garden.

The Aviary

Perched on the 10th floor of the Montcalm Royal London House Hotel by Finsbury Square and with views of some of London’s most iconic buildings, the Aviary is a stunning sky-high venue. The 6,000 sq ft rooftop dining destination, designed by Russell Sage Studio, features an impressive central bar which elegantly divides the stylish restaurant area from the opulent bar and lounge. Head Chef Dan Loftin, previously of Kensington Place, serves only the highest quality, responsibly sourced British meats and seafood. Enjoy an array of beautifully crafted cocktails that embrace botanical themes, using natural ingredients, out on the terrace. 

Bokan

Occupying the top three floors of the new Novotel Complex in Canary Wharf sits Bokan, a multi-floor restaurant and bar and one of London’s latest cloud gazing venues. Cushion-covered beds paired up with sundowner cocktails and frequent DJ sets, by select international talent, occupying the roof terrace every Thursday to Saturday throughout the summer. In the kitchen accomplished head chef, Aurélie Altemaire (formerly of L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon), brings precisely executed, yet relaxed modern European dishes whilst Danilo Tersigni (of Mr Fogg’s) curates a list of show-stopping experimental cocktails. Accessed via an express lift, the unique space has been designed to make the most of the stunning views. 

The Ned

The Ned is set in the historic Lutyens Building and has masterfully recreated the old Midlands Bank headquarters into an exclusive hotel, restaurants, bars and a private members club by Soho House. Members and guests only are able to enjoy the eighth-floor rooftop space with an impressive marble lined, 10-metre lap pool and views to St. Paul’s Cathedral and beyond. The pool comes paired with a private bar and restaurant set between the buildings two rooftop domes which has a retractable glass roof and outdoor heating, enabling you to enjoy the venue all year round. 

Rumpus Room

The recently refurbished Rumpus Room is inspired entirely by the Bright Young Things (a group of hedonistic, bohemian young aristocrats). Set on the 12th floor of the hotel, accompanying an outdoor smoking terrace and commanding views of Parliament, St Paul‘s and The City and has been recrafted into an accessible and casual space, suitable for any occasion. Expect lush greenery, plush sofas and comfortable lounge spaces with a menu of British-American inspired cocktails and food. Every Wednesday and Thursday features live music by Londons latest bands and DJ’s.

The Curtain

The Curtain provides guests and members with exclusive access to the rooftop terrace and all-day LIDO restaurant and bar. The venues show-stopping year-round heated pool, with accompanying daybeds and plays host to frequent live performances and events. The Curtain is a hotel, restaurant and members' club centred around 120 guestrooms, including six suites, 24-hour fitness centre, treatment rooms, co-working space and 6,000 square feet of event space, with a ballroom, screening room and much more. This is the latest hotel from New York hotelier Michael Achenbaum, who is behind the city's Gansevoort hotels.  

Ideal For

Staying above the crowd