Time Out's 2026 Guide to London's Premier Rooftop Bars
As London basks in the arrival of rooftop bar season, Time Out has released its highly anticipated guide to the capital's 15 greatest rooftop venues for 2026. Following a warm Easter bank holiday weekend, with forecasts predicting highs of 24C and ample sunshine this week, the timing is perfect for locals and visitors to ascend to these sky-high spots, enjoy a beverage, and soak up the stunning views.
A New Champion Emerges
This year, the guide crowns a new leader in the rooftop scene: the Queen Elizabeth Hall Roof Garden on the South Bank. This classic venue takes the top spot with its botany-inspired cocktails, expansive green space, and panoramic city-wide vistas, making it an unmissable destination for anyone seeking the ultimate rooftop experience in London.
Plan Your Rooftop Bar Crawl
For those looking to explore multiple venues, Time Out has simplified the process with a handy map of all the best rooftop bars across the city. This tool allows enthusiasts to craft an itinerary for a sunny bar crawl, hopping from one view-tastic location to another, ensuring a memorable day or night out.
Key Clusters Across the City
The map reveals several clusters of excellent rooftop establishments scattered throughout London:
- South London: Frank's, Forza Wine, and Bussey Rooftop Bar.
- South Bank: Another Forza Wine at the National Theatre and the top-rated Queen Elizabeth Hall Roof Garden.
- Central London: Setlist at Somerset House, just over the river.
- King's Cross Area: The Standard and Big Chill House, located on either side of King's Cross.
- East London: Shoreditch's Kaso and Queen of Hoxton, along with neighbours NT's Loft and Netil360 in Hackney.
This diverse selection ensures that no matter where you are in London, a fantastic rooftop bar is within reach, offering everything from casual drinks to sophisticated cocktails against a backdrop of urban scenery.
Stay Updated with London's Best
In addition to the rooftop bar guide, Time Out encourages readers to stay informed about other exciting developments in the city. For instance, one of London's oldest markets is set to be revamped with a new roof terrace, and a renowned pizza is making its way to a bar in Hackney Wick. To get the latest news, reviews, events, and trends, follow Time Out London's WhatsApp channel or sign up for their free newsletter.
Whether you're a seasoned rooftop bar visitor or planning your first sky-high adventure, Time Out's 2026 guide provides all the information needed to make the most of London's vibrant rooftop scene this season.
