The days are rapidly getting shorter and colder and bitter darkness is once again tightening its grasp on London. However, just because the sun is going to bed a lot earlier doesn’t mean you have to follow its lead. Rooftop bars might seem like venues that are best left exclusively for summer but think again. With electric heaters and your favourite winter woollies, you’ll barely notice the cold as you gaze out across the twinkling lights that shine from the city streets and buildings. If you’re in the mood for some fresh air or simply don’t want to face the reality of winter just yet, here are our top rooftop bars for you to check out.
Radio Rooftop Bar – Covent Garden
Perhaps not the best place to go if you’re on a budget but if you have a bit of cash to splash then the Radio Rooftop Bar is the perfect place to sip a bevvie or two on a crisp autumn night in the capital. The views here are truly second to none and if you’re feeling peckish they have a range of gourmet nibbles to feast on. Oh, and did we mention they have Moet Mondays? What better way to shake the impending winter blues than a fancy cocktail at altitude?
Vista at the Trafalgar, Soho
The Vista at the Trafalgar is the ultimate destination for any special occasion celebrations. Looking directly at Nelson’s Column, the bar serves up all kinds of mouth-watering cocktails and is available to hire if you’re really feeling extravagant. There is no better feeling than sitting on top of the world, watching the organised chaos of the city unfolding below you.
Aqua Kyoto, Soho
Combining the classic triumvirate of Japanese food, spectacular views and creative booze concoctions, Aqua Kyoto is one of the best places in the city for a bit of evening excitement. The food here is to die for and the sparkle of lights emanating from beneath you is certainly a sight to behold. They also have an infinity brunch for those who would rather drink the few hours of daylight we have left.
Rumpus Room, Southbank
One of the more sophisticated venues you might stumble across in the capital, Rumpus room isn’t an open air rooftop bar but it does have floor to ceiling windows, meaning you get all the stunning vistas that come with being on the roof but without the brisk chill. This makes it one of the best bars in London for those looking for beauty and booze but don’t want a big coat to ruin their carefully compiled outfit.
The Big Chill, St. Pancras
Quirky, fun and affordable, what The Big Chill lacks in views in certainly makes up for with personality. DJs spin disks regularly, the rooftop is always buzzing with people and the vibe here is as cool as the brightly coloured walls. If you really want to treat yourself, head over there for one of their delicious brunch options and grab yourself a couple of midday cocktails to go with it. It’s always 5pm somewhere, right?
