Golden Bee, Shoreditch — Those looking for a good party or a rooftop cinema screening can find both at this trendy East London establishment. Its weeknight happy hour from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. is also worth going to.
Rumpus Room, Southwark — This lavish bar is decorated with leather and vintage-style lamps, giving it a sumptuous feel. On the outside (and through the large windows), there's a gorgeous view across the Thames — especially by night, when the dome of St. Paul's Cathedral is illuminated.
Madison, St. Paul's — If you want to get even closer to St. Paul's, this central spot has impeccable views of the cathedral. Made up of an indoor glass atrium and an outside space, there's also somewhere to escape to in the event of British weather (rain).
Notch, Mayfair — This summertime pop-up on Oxford Street is popular with Londoners looking for a respite from the bustle of central London. The bar certainly has a hip feel, with fruit-mixed cocktails served in mason jars.
Queen of Hoxton, Shoreditch — Londoners who want to forget they're in London head to this East End rooftop bar, which recreates the feeling of being in a retro garden complete with fake grass, fairy lights, and a rum bar.
Radio Rooftop Bar, Strand — You might want to dress up for a drink at this upscale rooftop bar, which looks over the London skyline with buildings like the Shard, Heron Tower, and Walkie Talkie all lined up before you. Yelp recommends booking in advance as the place can fill up fast.
Frank's Cafe, Peckham — During the summer, southeast Londoners flock to this hip rooftop bar — which sits on the 10th floor of a multi-storey car park — for city views in an arty atmosphere.
SkyLounge, Aldgate — The 12th-floor roof terrace of the DoubleTree by Hilton is one of the city's coolest vantage points where you can sip on beautifully-crafted cocktails over spectacular views of Tower Bridge and the Tower of London.
The Berkeley, Knightsbridge — This swanky hotel rooftop bar has a pool, making it a fantastic place to spend the day swimming and the evening socialising. It's also known to be frequented by celebrity guests.
Boundary, Shoreditch — Decorated with sofas and plants, this rooftop bar looks like it could be someone's living room, except it has a much better view — especially at sunset when you can watch the day slip away over a cocktail. You'll want to arrive early to get a spot without queuing though.
The Fox, Haggerston — The rooftop terrace at this East London pub is a delightful place to while away a summer afternoon and evening, especially if you're a fan of craft beer, of which there's a variety behind the bar.
