High above the treetops or the 18th-century stone buildings are some of London’s most stunning rooftop bars.
Enjoy the sunset with a pretty girl and a delicious cocktail at one of these wonderful hotspots. We have picked three of our favourite rooftop bars in the clouds to inspire you.
The Dorchester Rooftop – 53 Park Lane, W1K 1QA
Frequented by megastars such as Michael Jackson, Elizabeth Taylor and Barbara Streisand, The Dorchester has a glittering history. Above Park Lane is The Dorchester Rooftop. Seasonal pop-ups and theme nights are held here. Last summer, the bar was covered in pink bougainvillaea flowers as it transformed into Beverly Hills’ iconic Polo Lounge.
The legendary Prickly Paloma cocktail and McCarthy salad from the world-famous Los Angeles super restaurant were served. The event was a huge success and every limited edition pop-up since has been as much fun as the last. Currently, The Dorchester Rooftop is working with Courvoisier to give London a touch of St Tropez. The cushions and décor could be straight out of Hotel Byblos. Colourful, muted neon tones and geometric prints adorn this beautiful spot overlooking Hyde Park. The list of sundowners is extensive. With cocktails like The Portofino (gin and lemonade). The Valensole (a lethal combination of tequila and mezcal with lime) offering a taste of the French and Italian Riviera. Make an appointment quickly before the next pop-up.
The 12th Knot at The Seacontainers – 20 Upper Ground, SE1 9PD
Overlooking the Thames is the quirky but beautiful 12th Knot Bar on the roof of The Seacontainers Hotel. Yes, you guessed it, the bar is located on the 12th floor. What I love about this rooftop bar is that it is an evergreen bar. All year round, this place is beautiful because of the glassed-in area. I have sat on the 12th floor in the middle of winter when the rain was lashing against the windows. It was still just as beautiful as when the sun was shining. In the colder climes I’d rather drink a spicy Bloody Mary than a fruity Aperol Spritz in the sun. You really can have a wonderful experience here at any time of year. Lush sofas indoors and small stools on the terrace make this a convivial place.
With live music on Wednesdays and DJs on weekends, this is a hip place without being pretentious. Everyone is welcome here. No tricks or gimmicks, just good cocktails, a great atmosphere and a stunning view of the city. One of the best rooftop bars in town.
Jurema, The Mandrake – 20-21 Newman St, W1T 1PG
If you can not get to the Seychelles, Brazil or Antigua for an evening, just book a place at Jurema. Here you really feel like you are in a lush green utopia. Far away from the hustle and bustle of big city London. Technically, Jurema is not a rooftop bar, as it is only one floor up. However, you will feel giddy at the thought that you are actually in London. Bamboo chairs and huge hanging vines await you in this quiet yet sophisticated venue. You’ll feel like you are in the grown-up version of Tarzan; just bring your Jane. No wonder this place won the “Global outdoor space” award at the AHEAD Awards.
Botanical cocktails with names like The Blue Lotus (a concoction of grey goose and champagne. Olea (Russian vodka, olive juice and champagne, topped off with a caper leaf) are served. Jurema also serves a fantastic lunch and dinner if you want to stay a little longer. Ceviches, meats and seafood are on offer – perfect for al fresco dining.
Sabine – 10 Godliman St, London, EC4V 5AJ
They say summer never ends at Sabine. Whilst we know this not to be true in good old Blighty. However, we are blessed with a few days each year under Helios’ rays. What better to enjoy them than with a cocktail and a gorgeous date overlooking the majestic St Paul’s. Opt for the walk in bar section or the rebooked St Paul’s terrace for a golden hour to remember. Thursday to Saturday Sabine has a live DJ to really kick your weekend off in style.
Ideal for a date that is maximum impact for minimum spend. Sabine has a 3 course set lunch for under £30 per person. Cocktails are a mix of Sabine’s own in house specials and a classic cocktail menu. Whilst we are some 750 miles away from the South of France, Sabine also offers some beautiful pale rose wines. Such as Rock Angel Whispering Angel and Ultimate Provence. As London rooftop bars go, you get a lot of bang for you buck here.
Savage Garden – Floor 12, 7 Pepys St, City of London, London EC3N 4AF
Not the Australian pop duo for the nineties but a theatrical cocktail bar atop the Hilton Doubletree in Tower Hill. In the words of the Aussie posters you and a gorgeous companion will fall “Truly, Madly, Deeply” for this intriguing rooftop bar. Boasting views of such London landmarks as the Shard and the Gherkin. This bar is wonderfully located just moments from Tower Hill station.
A myriad of cool lighting, giant murals and onyx marble make this a decadent space. Perfect to relax and unwind with a bespoke cocktail. Savage Garden has a terrace as well as indoor space with a dramatic skylight as well as floor to ceiling windows. The cocktails take inspiration from all over the world; drinks inspired by Spain, Italy, France and Japan. There is no theme here as other drinks are inspired by Buddhism, language and even Harry Potter. This eclectic cocktail menu just adds to the mystique of Savage Garden; anything goes.
Dining is from 5pm until late so perfect for a casual dinner date on a warm summers evening. Pizza, sharing boards and small plates so more of a relaxed affair than a sit down dinner. A fantastic fantasy rooftop bar with outstanding views.
Allure is renowned for gorgeous open-minded escorts in London, why not take one of our girls to one of these bars and have an evening to remember?
