Ah, London. Exploring London from the ground is exciting on its own, but have you ever taken a moment and checked out some of the best rooftop bars in London? You’d be surprised – they’re not all luxurious and they’re certainly an excellent scene for a date, New Year celebration or just a good old catch up with your best friends. We recommend you make a reservation for all of these and prepare your camera storage for the best Instagram shots ever. Ready? Let’s go!

See also: Where to Find the Best Views in London

7 Rooftop bars in London with the best view

1. SkyGarden Sky Pod bar

Charming views and cocktails with a menu that changes from morning to evening.

Recommended drink: Firework Hot Cocktail
Closest tube station: Monument
Address: 1 Sky Garden Walk, London EC3M 8AF, United Kingdom
Website: https://skygarden.london/sky-pod-bar

Photo by Riccardo Bresciani from Pexels

2. Aviary

It’s just gorgeous (and quirky at the same time). Neon lights, an aquarium, a lounge bar and a red-themed party room? Sold. Out of all the rooftop bars in London, this one is our favourite.

Recommended drink: Little Portland
Closest tube station: Oxford Circus
Address: 16 Little Portland St, Marylebone, London W1W 8BP, UK
Website: http://www.theaviarybar.com/


Photo by Riccardo Bresciani from Pexels

3. Searcys (The Gherkin)

No words are needed?

Recommended drink: Fleur Solaire
Closest tube station: Aldgate
Address: 30 St Mary Axe, London EC3A 8EP, UK
Website: searcysclubthegherkin.co.uk

4. Bird of Smithfield

One of the most colorful terraces you can find in London and creative cocktails!

Recommended drink: Ryan (with Gosling rum)
Closest tube station: Farringdon
Address: 26 Smithfield St, London EC1A 9LB, UK
Website: birdofsmithfield.com

[Kicking off the weekend with bubbles & cocktails on the roof top terrace… @birdosmithfield 2nd birthday party w/ @veuveclicquotuk & @theknottedvine ????? #eatlocal #supportlocal #clerkenwell #london](https://www.instagram.com/p/2tovjWv6kJ/)

A photo posted by Clerkenwell_Boy ??? (@clerkenwellboyec1) on May 15, 2015 at 11:44am PDT

5. Sky Lounge

Part of the Hilton Hotel, Sky Lounge lives up to the expecation. It’s fancy, it has a restaurant, and most importantly, it has a lounge bar.

Recommended drink: Fancy Bellini
Closest tube station: Tower Gateway
Address: 7 Pepys St, London EC3N 4AF, UK
Website doubletree3.hilton.com

[#Gala night! Private event at the #SkyLounge, starting the evening with delicious #drinks and breathtaking #views ??](https://www.instagram.com/p/BQGrqe_lQAe/)

A photo posted by Paul Skarseth (@paulskarseth) on Feb 4, 2017 at 1:15pm PST

6. Queen of Hoxton

You just have to experience it ?

Recommended drink: Freya’s Nettle Love Elixir
Closest station: Shoreditch High Street Address: 1 Curtain Rd, London EC2A 3JX, UK Website:queenofhoxton.com

[✨? #wigwam](https://www.instagram.com/p/BQE0pFZAoAP/)

A photo posted by erika sanchez (@eki_ka) on Feb 3, 2017 at 7:55pm PST

7. Vista

Pro tip: this is where you should spend your New Years Eve in London. Book early. (Please note that Vista will reopen in Summer 2017)

Recommended drink: Margarita
Closest tube station: Charing Cross
Address: 2 Spring Gardens, St. James’s, London SW1A 2TS, UK
Website: therooftopguide.com/rooftop-bars-in-london/vista.html

[Views](https://www.instagram.com/p/BA7P7IzpAp5/)

A photo posted by Tamsin Carter (@tamsincarter) on Jan 24, 2016 at 6:50am PST

What are your favorite rooftop bars in London? Let us know in the comments below!