Last Updated on October 16, 2023 by Eve Dawes
If you love a rooftop bar, views and a cold glass of rosé in the sun you’ll love these hot spots
The best rooftop bars in London are scattered all over London and depend on the vibe you’re looking for from casual to reservation tickets only. I’m a rosé girl so narrowed down the bars with the best views and prettiest Whispering Angel terraces that seem to be popping up all over London this Summer. Here’s my thoughts on both the Aviary bar London and Sky Garden London and top tips for visiting both of these Whispering Angel terrace bars.
On a hit and miss English Summer day where the weather couldn’t decide to be gorgeously sunny or grey and blustery, we headed up to the Aviary Bar on the 10th floor of the Montcalm Hotel London. I’d seen it on lots of ‘Best rooftop bars in London’ lists so decided to check it out and start the afternoon here.
Best rooftop bars London: Aviary Bar London & tips for visiting
It’s easy to see why this rooftop hideaway makes so many best rooftop bar in London lists as the views and vibe are great. There is both indoor and outdoor seating but the outdoor patio, Rock Angel and Whispering Angel terrace are where you want to be for the views and the sun (if you’re lucky). The Aviary London bar does accept walk-ins if they’re not busy but reservations are recommended so book in advance if you can.
Aviary London | Rooftop Restaurant and Terrace BarJoin us for sky-high views from the 5th May with rosé all day, and nights out to remember as Whispering Angel & Rock Angel take over our rooftop with a heavenly installation. Ascend to the rooftop, pose in our Whispering Angel pergola, indulge in wine flights and seafood towers all against the backdrop of London’s best skyline.
It’s a quick 5 minute walk from Liverpool Street station and a 12 minute Uber or Taxi ride to Sky Gardens if you want to bar hop like we did. You can also walk between the these tow top rated best London rooftop bars but we were wearing heels and trying to fit a lot into an afternoon.
Grab a photo in the pretty Whispering Angel Aviary they have set up at the roof top bar and settle in for relaxing drinks with a view. Mid-afternoon after the lunch rush and before work ends tends to be the quietest and most chill time to visit. They do also serve food if you’re looking for a bite to eat or a full meal.
Aviary Bar London address, opening hours & reservations
22-25 Finsbury Square, London, EC2A 1DX
Open Daily:
Monday – Friday 6:30am – midnight
Saturday – Sunday 7am – midnight
Kitchen closes at 10pm
Sky Garden London | Whispering Angel Terrace
Sky Garden London is another one of the places that makes a lot of the best rooftop bars London lists but don’t mistake it for an outside rooftop bar. It’s the super popular tourist attraction known for being London’s highest public garden and for it’s sweeping views of the River Thames and pretty much all of London as far as the eye can see.
Admission is free but you do need to book tickets in advance. You don’t have to eat or drink up there but of course we did. You can just wander around and take in the 360 views and it’s suitable for all the family. Although there are lots of steps.
It’s worth checking out Sky Garden’s event page as they often have live music, sunrise events, yoga and currently the Whispering Angel Terrace on their Fenchurch Terrace (all the way at the top of the Sky Garden).
You need to book tickets for the Whispering Angel Terrace as there’s a few options. Including an exclusive sharing menu paired with Whispering Angel wines or a bottle of wine where you can add a la carte light bites. Don’t expect to lounge at the terrace all night though, the table is only yours for 1.5 hours.
Tips: There’s free water at the main bar in the center of the atrium, restrooms by the elevators and an outside balcony to take all of your photos from.
Sky Gardens address, hours and tickets
Address: 1 Sky Garden Walk, London, EC3M 8AF
Hours: Monday-Thursday and Sundays 8am-12am. Friday-Saturday 8am-1am
Best rooftop bar London for a party atmosphere | Sushi Samba London
There’s no Whispering Angel terrace or even Whispering angel here but I’m also a huge fan of the outside bar terrace at Sushi Samba in London Heron Tower which is one of the best rooftop bars in London in my opinion if you want somewhere buzzy with live music. It’s also a really short walk from Liverpool Street station which makes it convenient if that’s where your trains coming in or out of.
More Whispering Angel terraces and rooftop bars London
Did I miss one? Let me know your favorite rooftop bars and sky gardens in London for me to visit next.
