Best Rooftop Bars In Waterloo

• National Theatre, SE1 9PX
• Views of the Southbank

Head upstairs at the National Theatre to discover Forza Wine, a cool wine and cocktail bar that comes with its very own roof terrace. Open from 12pm right through to midnight, this spot is perfect for lunch, dinner or evening drinks after a show, all while watching over the bustling Southbank below.

Sip natural wines, from red to white and orange, or take a look at the cocktail meu instead. We recommend the frozen margaritas, paired with tasty snacks like whipped cod's roe, cauliflower fritti or burrata and anchovies on toast.

• 1 Sandell Street, SE1 8UH
• Views of The Shard

Looking for rooftop bars near Waterloo station? Then check out Auberge, a French restaurant and bar with a cracking roof terrace, even offering glimpses of the Shard. There are ten different craft beers on tap, as well as a top selection of wine and cocktails - both classic and signature.

The food is the real star of the show though, with an extensive menu to choose from. Think chargrilled steak frites, duck confit or a spicy sweet potato and chickpea curry, ad they even offer a £16.95 lunch deal between 12 and 5pm every day.

• Mercury House, 117 Waterloo Road, SE1 8UL
• Views of Central London

Just a stone's throw from Waterloo station, Circe's is an iconic rooftop bar that's inspired by the Greek Gods. This open-air space is made up of multiple different terraces, all of which come with a killer view of the city.

Expect lots of outdoor seating, as well as regular themed bottomless brunches. There are all kinds of great cocktails on offer, while the Mediterranean menu ranges from mozzarella and truffle arancini to crispy fried chicken wings or cheeseburger sliders.

• Royal Festival Hall, Belvedere Road, SE1 8XX
• Views of the Thames

Situated on the first floor of Royal Festival Hall, Skylon Bar and Restaurant is a rooftop destination that flaunts floor-to-ceiling windows looking out over the Thames. The stunning spot is decked out in golden decor with a marble bar, alongside plenty of dining space.

Their menu focuses on British classics, from slow-cooked lamb shepherd's pie to mushroom risotto or fish and chips. To wash it down? Signature cocktails, such as the elderflower and apple juice Royal Garden.

• The Hoxton, Southwark, 40 Blackfriars Road, SE1 8PB
• Views of Central London

Boasting the largest oyster list in London, Seabird is the place to be for great quality seafood up high. They offer a huge raw bar, as well as cooked dishes, taking their inspiration from the flavours of Southern Europe. From grilled octopus with jalapeno to whole lobster with rice, alongside plant-based options, there's something for everyone here.

Pair your dishes with a stellar range of cocktails, all while admiring the view from 14 floors up at The Hoxton Hotel. Be sure to nab a seat on their outdoor terrace for the best experience, featuring cosy seating and an abundance of greenery. 

• Tower Wharf, Bargehouse Street, SE1 9PH
• Views of The City and the Southbank

If you're after the best Waterloo bars with a view, it doesn't get much better than the OXO Tower Restaurant, Bar and Brasserie. It's found on the top floor of this famous building, overlooking the Thames, St Paul's Cathedral, the Southbank and beyond. There's even an outdoor terrace that's ideal for summer.

There are three venues in one here, offering everything from light bites and live music to a sit-down meal, alongside some of the most delicious cocktails around. Sip a sparkling 8th Floor Smash, featuring Belvedere vodka and HN Brut Champagne, before indulging in the likes of beef Wellington, stone bass gnocchi or roasted cauliflower.

• 20 Upper Ground, SE1 9PD
• Views of the Southbank and Central London

Perched on the 12th floor of Sea Containers London hotel, 12th Knot is a beautiful rooftop bar that boasts amazing views across the river and the city's skyline. Whether you want to watch the sunset or look out at the stars, you can expect a buzzing atmosphere and gorgeous interiors.

Take a seat on one of their plush velvet sofas to enjoy a cocktail or two, or even listen to live music. Feeling peckish? They also offer snacks like sea bass ceviche tacos, hot honey chicken bites and beef sliders.