With Christmas just three weeks away, the capital's social calendar is filling up fast. The festive rush to meet friends, family, and colleagues is in full swing, and London's glittering skyline provides the perfect backdrop for these seasonal gatherings. While pavement pints have their place, the city's impressive array of elevated bars and heated terraces offer an unforgettable experience, combining breathtaking views with cosy, ambient settings.
Sky-High Celebrations with Breathtaking Views
For those seeking unparalleled vistas, several venues stand out. The Sky Pod Bar at Sky Garden, on the 35th floor of the 'Walkie Talkie' building, remains the city's highest bar, offering panoramic views alongside cocktails and fine wines. In the City of London, Wagtail Rooftop Bar and Restaurant occupies two floors atop a 1920s art deco building, presenting sights of Tower Bridge, St Paul’s, and The Shard, often accompanied by late-night DJs.
Over in Finsbury Square, The Aviary on the 10th floor of The Montcalm Royal London House is a lesser-known gem with unbeatable city views. Meanwhile, Savage Garden at Tower Hill boasts a famed vantage point overlooking the Tower of London and Tower Bridge, consistently earning top Tripadvisor ratings.
Cosy Winter Terraces & Themed Pop-Ups
Many bars have created enchanting winter wonderlands to combat the chill. Drake & Morgan in King’s Cross features a richly-coloured, fully heated terrace, serving seasonal snacks and indulgent cocktails from £13.50. Bankside's The Distillery has adorned its terrace with soft throws and festive décor, offering mulled wine or hot chocolate with a gingerbread biscuit for just £5.
Vicinity Bar & Restaurant by Tower Bridge has reopened its Alpine Lodge, bringing a mountain vibe to the Thames. In Canary Wharf, The Sipping Room has brought back its popular festive igloos, decorated with lights and foliage, where guests can enjoy special cocktails like the Singleton Hot Choco made with 12-year-old whiskey.
Other notable winter setups include the Hot Toddy Terrace at The Brush Grand Cafe in Hoxton, complete with fur blankets and heaters, and the lantern-lit winter terrace at The Mirror Bar by Beluga Vodka in Marylebone, which also offers handpicked cigars.
Hidden Gems & Unique Experiences
Beyond the well-trodden paths, London holds several secret spots. Waterloo Sky Bar, atop the H10 Hotel, offers striking views of the London Eye and is often missed by non-guests. The 12th Knot Bar at the Sea Containers Hotel in Southwark provides a prestigious, atmospheric setting directly over the Thames.
In Aldgate, the Florattica Rooftop Bar—a 2025 Tripadvisor Travellers Choice winner—offers an other-worldly, ornate experience with breathtaking skyline views. For something different, Kitchen at Holmes in Marylebone is hosting a secret festive rooftop cinema screening Christmas classics, with an extra showing of Love Actually on December 11 due to demand.
From the California flair of Feels Like June in Canary Wharf to the Parisian bistro vibe of Henri in Covent Garden, London's rooftop and terrace scene is diverse and vibrant this December. With bookings advised for many venues, now is the time to plan those evocative festive nights out high above the sparkling city streets.
