Like every Londoner, as soon as the sun starts to show its magnificent face, I can’t help but want to spend my days outdoors for as long as the sun is shining.
It’s an amazing time to be having picnics, catching up with friends over drinks in the beer gardens, or simply taking a leisurely stroll by the serene canals!
I do have a special place in my heart however, for those open-roof bars perched high up and with spectacular views. The great thing about a city like London is that there’s always something new popping up and so the choice of places to grab some Pimm’s with a view continues to grow.
Here are my current five favourite places in London. Make sure to get there early as some of these are guaranteed to be in high demand during this (hopefully!) long summer 🙂
1. Dalston Roof Park
Photo curtesy of Dalston Roof Park
Pull up a deck chair, and get lounging on the lawn in the roof! This little park also offers barbecue bites if you are feeling peckish. You can get a ÂŁ5 membership here for access to free events all Summer long.
2. SushiSamba
Photo curtesy of SushiSamba
For the slick City crowd, this swanky place on top of the Heron Tower is definitely going to impress. Perfect for those jittery first dates, that’s because the view will be the main focus of the night in the warm breeze. I love the view of the Gherkin building from the inside bar, which always gives me a new perspective above the London skyline.
3. Radio Rooftop Bar
Photo curtesy of Radio Rooftop Bar
This was a little gem I uncovered while the ME Hotel was under construction near my old Alma Mater, the LSE. The trick is to arrive early and grab the best seats near the edge of the roof. Despite not being as high up as other fancier places, the Norman Foster famous design will have your friends appreciate the effort you put in once they arrive.
4. Mr. Fogg’s
Photo curtesy of Mr.Fogg’s
For something a bit more classic, this Victoria little spot will bring you back in time. For an eccentric British experience, visit the Hendricks Botanical Garden, which features ceiling fans and lush surroundings filled with the best of nature.
5. Big Chill House
Photo curtesy of Big Chill House
Pub? Check. Rooftop? Check. Cocktails? Check. This places in Kings Cross provides a little taste of its cooler sibling Shoreditch with lots of space. A great option for those staying in the North of the city.
Do you have any secret rooftop spots to add? Put it in the comments below and I’ll make sure to feature it in the list.
I had no idea Sushisamba had an outdoor eating area!!! How did I miss that. And I absolutely LOVE Radio rooftop! Great list 🙂 Lots of love, Andrea xxx
Andrea’s Passions
Great round up Laurie, we must get together soon. I’d add Madison and Coq d’Argent, both in the City to this list
Suze | LuxuryColumnist
I have lived in London for almost five years now and had no idea that half of these bars even existed. Next sunny day I feel like I might have to do a rooftop crawl to rectify this!
http://www.emmainks.com
I love Sushisamba but have never been during the daytime, I’d love to go during the day as well!
C x
Actually I don’t think I’ve ever visited a proper rooftop bar in London! I’ve been in a few places like the sky Garden but not to have drinks there yet. Mr Fogg’s looks beautiful