Plantlet The Blogging Platform of Department of Botany, University of Dhaka
Last week I spent an evening at a 30‑storey bar overlooking the Thames, and the view of the city lights at 11 pm was worth the £25 cover. It wasn’t just the skyline that impressed; the bar’s layout, music selection, and cocktail menu were all carefully curated for a relaxed yet upscale vibe. If you’re planning a weekend out, you’ll want to hit a spot that offers both spectacular scenery and a memorable experience.
The Top Five Rooftop Bars to Beat the Crowd
1. The Shard – Aqua
Located on the 31st floor of the Shard, Aqua serves a rotating menu of gin‑based drinks. The bar’s glass floor gives you a 360° view of the city, and the staff can recommend a cocktail that matches the weather. The only downside? The cover charge is £35, and you’ll have to queue for at least 20 minutes during peak Saturday nights.
2. The Rooftop at The Londoner
On the 12th floor of the historic Londoner building, this spot offers a relaxed atmosphere and a 30‑minute happy hour on all cocktails from 5 pm to 7 pm. The menu includes a signature “London Fog” that blends Earl Grey tea with vanilla vodka. The bar’s only limitation is its capacity: it can seat only 50 people, so arriving early is key.
3. The Sky Garden – 20 Fenchurch Street
Not a traditional bar, the Sky Garden’s terrace is free to the public, but the adjacent bar charges a £20 cover. The drinks are minimal, focusing on craft beers and small plates. The view of the London Eye is unbeatable, yet the bar’s location means you’ll often have to cross a busy street to reach the entrance.
4. The Roof at The Gherkin
On the 18th floor, this bar offers a mix of classic cocktails and modern twists. The 10‑minute pre‑order system ensures you won’t wait for your drink, but the bar’s narrow entrance can feel cramped during rush hour. The highlight is the “Gherkin Sunset” cocktail, a citrus‑spiked gin that tastes like summer.
5. The View at 10 Downing Street
Only open on Fridays and Saturdays, this bar boasts a panoramic view of St. James’s Park. The cover is £30, and the bar’s signature drink, the “Prime Minister’s Punch,” is a rum‑based concoction with a hint of lime. The bar’s main flaw is its limited seating: 60 seats in total, so if you’re a group of more than six, you’ll need to split up.
How to Make the Most of Your Rooftop Experience
Timing is everything. Arriving before 6 pm on a weekday can save you a significant waiting time, while weekends require an earlier arrival to secure a good table. If you’re a cocktail enthusiast, ask the bartender for a tasting flight; most rooftops offer a 3‑drink sampler that showcases their signature drinks. For food lovers, many rooftops provide a small menu of tapas‑style bites, but be prepared to pay a premium – a small plate can cost up to £15.
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When to Go and What to Expect
Weekends are the most popular, but they also bring the highest cover charges and longest queues. If you’re looking for a quieter night, consider Thursday evenings; many rooftops offer a 15% discount on cocktails. Weather plays a big role too: a sunny afternoon can turn into a magical night if you’re there early enough to catch the sunset.
Final Thoughts
London’s rooftop bars are more than just a place to drink; they’re a way to experience the city from a new angle. By choosing a spot that fits your budget and timing, you can enjoy a perfect weekend night out without the usual crowds. Remember to book ahead, arrive early, and bring a camera – the views are worth the extra effort.
