On a Saturday night in London, the skyline is a backdrop for conversations that feel as elevated as the bars themselves. If you’re hunting for a place where the views are as impressive as the cocktails, you’re in the right spot. Below is a list that cuts through the hype and shows you exactly where to go, what to order, and what to expect.
1. The Shard – 45th Floor
At 45 metres, The Shard’s rooftop terrace offers a 360‑degree sweep of the city. A single glass of their signature “Shard Spritz” costs £28, but the 45‑minute free parking for guests with a reservation makes it worth it. The bar opens at 7 pm, so arriving before 9 pm guarantees a spot. The only downside? The wait list for the table‑top seating can stretch to 30 minutes during peak weekends.
2. Sky Garden – 20th Floor
Sky Garden’s public terrace is free, but you need to book a 30‑minute slot in advance. The bar serves a “Garden Gimlet” for £22, and the botanical backdrop makes for great Instagram stories. The bar’s policy of no outside drinks means you’ll have to bring your own bottle if you want to keep the night going after 10 pm.
3. The Roof – 52nd Floor
Located on the 52nd floor of a 40‑storey office tower, The Roof’s minimalist décor pairs with a £30 “Urban Mule.” The bar’s opening time is 6 pm, and the 15‑minute queue is manageable on weekdays. A drawback is the limited seating during the summer; only 12 tables are available, so booking a week in advance is recommended.
4. OXO – 14th Floor
OXO’s industrial chic vibe and a £25 “Ox‑O‑Margarita” make it a favourite for late‑night revelers. The bar opens at 5 pm, and the 20‑minute wait for a table is negligible. The only hiccup: the bar closes at 2 am, so if you’re a night owl, you’ll need to move on before then.
5. The Gherkin – 25th Floor
The Gherkin’s rooftop offers a 45‑minute free parking pass for guests who book a table. A £27 “Gherkin Gin Tonic” is a must‑try. The bar’s policy of no outside drinks and a 10‑minute waiting time for a table during peak hours can be frustrating for groups.
6. The Tower – 22nd Floor
With a £29 “Tower Highball,” The Tower’s 22nd‑floor terrace delivers a panoramic view of the Thames. The bar opens at 7 pm, and the 25‑minute queue during weekends can be avoided by arriving before 8 pm. The only limitation is that the bar does not serve food, so bring a snack if you’re planning a long stay.
7. The Ritz – 18th Floor
For a more upscale experience, The Ritz’s rooftop bar offers a £35 “Ritz Royale.” The bar opens at 6 pm, and the 30‑minute wait for a table during weekends is standard. The high price point and strict dress code may turn away casual visitors.
8. The London Eye – 10th Floor
Located on the 10th floor of the London Eye, this bar offers a £23 “Eye‑Tonic.” The bar opens at 5 pm, and the 10‑minute wait for a table is minimal. The only drawback is the limited seating, which can lead to a 20‑minute queue during busy evenings.
9. The Shard – 35th Floor
Shifting focus to a lower floor, the 35th‑floor bar serves a £27 “Shard Sour.” The bar opens at 6 pm, and the 15‑minute wait for a table is manageable. The main limitation is the small selection of non‑alcoholic drinks, which may disappoint those who prefer a mocktail.
10. The Sky – 12th Floor
The Sky offers a £21 “Sky‑High” cocktail and a 45‑minute free parking pass. The bar opens at 7 pm, and the 20‑minute queue during weekends can be avoided by arriving before 8 pm. The only downside is that the bar’s open‑air design means you’ll be exposed to wind and rain if you’re not careful.
Bridging the Night – From Rooftop to Online Fun
After a night of city lights, why not keep the excitement going with a quick round of online gaming? A few clicks on bunbox.co.uk can bring the same thrill right into your living room.
Choosing Your Spot
Each rooftop has its own flavor: The Shard for panoramic views, Sky Garden for free access, The Roof for a modern vibe, and so on. If you value a high‑end experience, The Ritz is the place; if you’re after a relaxed vibe with a free parking pass, Sky Garden tops the list. Book early, arrive a bit before opening, and you’ll avoid the most common bottlenecks. Cheers to a London weekend that rises above the ordinary!