Best Bars In London With A View

London offers one of the most famous skylines in the world, from St Paul's Cathedral's iconic dome to the towering Shard and meandering River Thames. Luckily the city also boasts some equally impressive drinking dens in which to sip on something crisp and take it all in. Whether you're in the market for a rooftop terrace or a riverside pub, we've rounded up the very best bars with a view in London. Instagram ain't gonna know what's hit it. 

Last edited by Scarlett Welch

Last updated on 12th March 2025



Madison

Gaze out over St Paul's Cathedral and The City on Madison's swanky rooftop terrace. The slick bar and restaurant is perfect for a glass of chilled Champagne or, come evening, watching the sunset with some of their delicious seafood. This summer, the space has been transformed into a stunning oasis filled with pampas grass, olive branches and gypsophila woven together to create pretty cloudscapes. You'll be able to kick back and enjoy Mediterranean-inspired plates such as ceviche and lobster tacos, or enjoy three courses paired with an Aperol spritz. 

Glasshouse On The Roof

Looking for a place that combines stunning views and a lively atmosphere? Glasshouse at the NYX Hotel is a rooftop bar like no other. With its vibrant neon lights, bold décor, and electric vibe, this rooftop haven on the 10th floor is the perfect place to unwind.

The cocktail menu is just as exciting, with creations like the Bling Bellini and Orb Fashioned to keep your taste buds dancing. Whether you're enjoying the sun, relaxing under the retractable roof, or grooving to international funk, this is the spot to enjoy the London skyline in style.

Aqua Nueva

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Ready to spice up your life with delectable contemporary Spanish tapas and epic vistas over London? Head to Aqua Nueva on Regent Street and indulge in chef Yahir Gonzalez's fresh and seasonal plates of goodness that are perfect for sharing; we're talking goodies like spiced crab tostadas, bacalao tacos with taramasalata, and so much more. And if you're in the mood to soak up some iconic London views, hop on to the rooftop terrace and sip on hand-crafted cocktails while soaking in the sunshine and all the gorgeousness the city has to offer.

Union Social at The Gantry

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Looking for a place to enjoy delicious food and drinks with a stunning view in East London? Look no further than Union Social at The Gantry. This rooftop bar is one of the top contenders in Stratford, with its gorgeous terrace, swanky interiors, and floor-to-ceiling windows that provide breathtaking views of the city. And that's not all: you can also enjoy late-night DJ sets, funky artwork from Jealous Gallery, and a range of international plates to satisfy your cravings.

Aqua Kyoto

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Looking for a prime spot to impress and unwind with innovative Japanese cocktails and stunning views? Aqua Kyoto's got your back. Located on the fifth floor of the famous former Dickins & Jones building, the rooftop space is a blooming paradise of silk hydrangeas and panoramic views that'll leave you in awe. Head down to sip on expertly crafted cocktails like the Sweet Escape, a blend of Pampero rum, Chambord, Peach Schnapps, vanilla, passion fruit and lemon or the Geisha, a combination of sake, vodka, lychee and rose.

Kaso Rooftop Bar & Kitchen

Escape to sunny California without stepping foot out of East London with a visit to Kaso Rooftop Bar & Kitchen at One Hundred Shoreditch. As soon as you head upstairs, you'll be greeted by panoramic views of London's skyline, the pink marble decor, lush succulents, and cacti all around you. Plus, the retro Californian menu is to die for, with wild mushroom tacos, shrimp burgers, margaritas, and martinis galore. Head down for breathtaking views and good vibes all around.

Smiths of Smithfield

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Chef's Choice Menu and 3 other offers

Discover a rooftop dining experience steeped in history at Smiths of Smithfield, nestled in a Grade II-listed building next to the iconic Smithfield Market in London's Farringdon. This unique location offers not just fantastic city views but also a chance to immerse yourself in the city's rich heritage while sipping on lip-smacking cocktails and wines. Indulge your taste buds with a taste of their small plates, featuring beautifully prepared octopus carpaccio, grilled pork chops, or caviar-topped hash browns, all while soaking in the swanky, vibrant atmosphere.

Oystercatcher

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Bottomless Brunch

When it comes to London pubs with a view, Oystercatcher's riverside location - complete with floor-to-ceiling windows throughout the interiors and a huge outdoor terrace on the waterfront - is just the ticket. See across Greenwich, Isle of Dogs and Canary Wharf here, with the likes of bottomless brunches, sustainable cocktails and more on the cards.

Bondi Green

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Looking out over Regent's Canal from its alfresco terrace, Bondi Green is the Australian-inspired bar and restaurant that promises great drinks alongside all-day dining. Think killer coffee and cocktails, as well as a great value bottomless brunch.

As for the menu, expect everything from fancy bacon rolls to sweetcorn fritters and juicy beef burgers. What's more, they've got two other venues by the water in Paddington: Beany Green and Darcie & May Green.

Vicinity

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Situated overlooking Tower Bridge, Vicinity is a bar and restaurant with some seriously epic views. While you soak up the iconic riverside vistas, get to know the menu of cocktails, Champagnes and fine ales, not to mention the tasty street food-inspired dishes.

Forza Wine at the National Theatre

Forza Wine at the National Theatre offers stunning riverside views paired with a laid-back atmosphere, perfect for sipping on natural wines or expertly crafted cocktails. Enjoy seasonal, Italian-inspired dishes meant for sharing, from cauliflower fritti to hearty fish and steaks.

Whether you're indulging in soft-serve ice cream or their unique Custardos® dessert, the menu is designed to delight. With a dynamic wine selection and a lively ambience, it's a great spot for anything from pre-show drinks to a special birthday lunch.

Circe’s Rooftop Waterloo

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2-4-1 on menu cocktails & 3 for 2 on small plates 3pm to 7pm and 5 other offers

Found where institution Bar Elba once stood, Circe's brings you that same winning location with views of Waterloo but with a fun, Greek-inspired twist. Named after the God of Sun's Daughter, the rooftop bar continues this theme across Mediterranean small plates and a world-class cocktail list called 'Olympians'. 

SAMBA ROOM

Found one floor up from their iconic restaurant counterpart at Heron Tower, SUSHISAMBA, SAMBA ROOM is a stunning cocktail bar and lounge space that boasts many of the same City of London views. Think vistas from the 39th floor, intimate seating, mid-century decor with a Brazilian leaning, and a condensed version of the downstairs restaurant's menu - featuring Brazilian, Japanese and Peruvian fusion dishes.

Los Mochis London City

Los Mochis, located atop the 9th floor of 100 Liverpool Street, is a foodie paradise, complete with a restaurant, two bars, and a vast terrace offering stunning views across London. It's a mini escape to Mexico in the heart of London, offering a chic oasis with Mexican and Japanese-inspired cuisine featuring goodies like Shinjuku ceviche, wagyu carne tataki and yuzu chilli meringue.