With the weather looking good this weekend, and bars and pubs back in the swing of things, there's some semblance of something like a normal summer in the capital.
For many, the first thought is finding somewhere to sit in the sun. We’ve already put together a guide to the biggest beer gardens in London, but sometimes, nothing beats getting up on the roof.
After all, everyone likes a view, especially after months cooped up indoors – and in that spirit, check out the rooftop bars below, from plush Ibiza-style spots to carpark rooftops.
All of the below are now open, but bear in mind that places are likely to be fairly busy, with advance booking required for most.
Bussey Building
One of Peckham’s most popular spots is open again. It’s one of the best spots for views south of the river and the panoramic rooftop is a great place to see the sunset. Organisers have added more seating space to help with social distancing, and guests can book tickets now.
133 Rye Ln, Peckham, SE15 4ST, busseyrooftopbar.com
Roof East
Stratford hotspot Roof East opened its doors for the first time since Christmas on July 4, and is back boasting 30,000sq ft of outdoor space. There’ll be a reduced capacity and social distancing measures in place, with guests ordering drinks and food via an app and the space transformed into a fully seated and fully hosted area. Games and activities are open too, including Sluggers batting cages, Birdies crazy golf and Sliders curling.
7 & 8 Stratford Multi Storey Car Park, E15 1BB, roofeast.com
Bar Elba
As well as being an Instagrammer’s dream, the sunny rooftop at Bar Elba is plonked in the middle of Waterloo is the home of some fantastic (and reasonably priced) cocktails. The bar is pretty spacious, normally running with a capacity of 600, so there are ample opportunities for socially distanced hangouts. The venue is taking bookings for up to 10 people and it's a popular spot, so we'd suggest you get looking now.
109-117 Waterloo Road, SE1 8UL, bar-elba.co.uk
Netil 360
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As stripped back and unpretentious as you’ll find, this Hackney hangout is all about providing a no-fuss space for east Londoners to spend time surrounded by panoramic views of the city. There’s a fantastic beer selection on offer, with Truman’s and Five Points breweries providing the goods and London Liquor Company providing the spirits – perfect for enjoying on the al fresco terrace.
1 Westgate Street, E8 3RL, netil360.com
Aviary
On the plusher end of the scale, this Finsbury spot is home to a glamorous roof terrace and marks one of the more romantic date spots in the City. It’s normally incredibly busy during post-work hours, but of course that’s changed now, with spaces limited due to new restrictions. Still, if you can bag you and a few friends a marble high-topped table or a couple of sofas outside, it’s a wonderful place to catch some rays with a drink or two. There are still vibes.
22-25 Finsbury Square, EC2A 1DX, aviarylondon.com
Pergola Paddington
All the benefit of the incredible location and views across the city, without any danger of the weather ruining your visit. It’s a lovely spot, with flowers and greenery hanging all around giving the feel of a quaint garden party in the heart of west London. There’s more than enough bench space to pack guests in under new regulations too.
4 Kingdom Street, W2 6PY, pergolalondon.com
Skylight
Wapping's Skylight, known for its panoramic open-air views of the city, will open under new social distancing rules with its signature lawn games suspended to allow more room. Guests will be required to reserve tables in advance to enter the venue, with prices starting at £10.
Tobacco Dock, E1W 2SF, tobaccodocklondon.com
The Queen of Hoxton
Shoreditch staple the Queen of Hoxton has been hosting quirky events and rooftop parties for as long as we can remember, and they’re always great fun, with a lively crowd. The venue feels like a little hideout in the middle of the city, and they’re back for more now.
1 Curtain Road, EC2A 3JX, queenofhoxton.com
