London is a city that never sleeps, and its hotels are no different. Offering much more than just a comfortable bed, many of London’s best hotels boast stunning rooftop restaurants and bars that will leave you breathless. From panoramic city views to innovative cocktails, these rooftop havens are the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring.
A Touch of Grandeur: Trafalgar St James and The Rooftop
Looking for luxury and sophistication? Trafalgar St James, part of the Curio Collection by Hilton, delivers in spades. This hotel oozes grandeur with its historical and royal-inspired room names. Step inside and you’ll be greeted with a surprisingly urban ambiance. But the real highlight? The Rooftop, offering alfresco dining and drinks with breathtaking views of the famous square.
A Slice of International Flavor: The Gantry’s Union Social
For a vibrant and modern experience, head to The Gantry’s Union Social. This rooftop terrace is a feast for the senses, boasting stunning interiors adorned with lush greenery and floor-to-ceiling windows that open onto the sunny outdoor space.
Union Social caters to all tastes with its all-day dining menu. Indulge in international dishes from miso noodle bowls to homemade arancini, all while enjoying delicious cocktails and the beats of late-night DJs.
Urban Escape with a View: Novotel Canary Wharf
Looking for a hotel that offers a tranquil escape from the bustling city? Novotel Canary Wharf is the perfect option. This rooftop hotel provides a haven of luxury with its on-site gym, pool, and sleek sky-high restaurant overlooking the dynamic financial area.
The rooms themselves are a study in simple elegance, featuring a cool and calming color palette. And for a taste of award-winning British cuisine, visit Bōkan. This rooftop restaurant offers a dedicated gin menu to complement your delicious meal while you relax on a daybed.
Chic Shoreditch: Ace Hotel London Shoreditch
Ace Hotel London Shoreditch is a stylish and modern retreat nestled in the heart of the trendy Shoreditch neighborhood. While the rooms exude a cool and minimalist aesthetic, it’s the restaurants and bars that truly steal the show.
Enjoy elevated British cuisine at VQ or delve into aromatic Chinese cooking at Shikumen Luxe. But for a truly unforgettable experience, head to Jin Bo Law. This rooftop bar on the 14th floor offers breathtaking views of the skyline alongside a selection of delicious cocktails.
A Calm Oasis: The Montcalm Royal London House
The Montcalm Royal London House is a peaceful sanctuary nestled in Finsbury Square. The hotel’s mid-century rooms, adorned with splashes of color and monochromatic bathrooms, create a tranquil ambiance.
Feeling thirsty? Choose between two incredible bars: Burdock, a relaxed setting with shuffleboard tables, or the stunning Aviary. This rooftop bar features sky-high igloos for winter nights and sunny alfresco seating during the warmer months.
Transatlantic Glamour: Sea Containers
Sea Containers transports you back to the glamorous era of 1920s transatlantic sea travel. The hotel’s sophisticated restaurant sets the stage for an unforgettable experience.
But the real highlight is the rooftop bar, 12th Knot. This sky-high haven offers panoramic views of some of London’s most iconic landmarks, including St Paul’s Cathedral and the Gherkin. Curl up on a plush velvet sofa and enjoy delicious cocktails as you soak in the breathtaking scenery.
Bohemian Chic: The Hoxton
The Hoxton is a stylish and trendy hotel that has become a favorite among London’s discerning travelers. Olive greens and framed prints adorn the boho-inspired bedrooms, while the rooftop space, Seabird, pays homage to the vibrant energy of New York City.
Potted plants and exposed brick walls create a relaxed and inviting atmosphere. But the true star of the show is the raw bar, boasting London’s longest oyster list.
Slick Style: Boundary
Boundary is a boutique hotel that embodies the cool and sophisticated vibe of Shoreditch. Its 17 crisp, white rooms each feature unique quirks, ranging from a New York cityscape in the bathroom to the over-the-top suite by David Tang, complete with Chintz wallpaper and velvet armchairs.
But the real draw is the Rooftop Bar & Grill, offering spectacular views and delicious fondue.
A Treehouse in the Sky: Treehouse Hotel London
Treehouse Hotel London, part of the renowned SH Group, is all about cozy spaces and repurposed materials. Handwritten messages on chalkboards and fairy light-laden wooden pallets create a unique and welcoming atmosphere throughout the hotel.
The hotel’s stunning view of the city is truly breathtaking, living up to the treehouse theme. Savor the sights while dining at Madera, a buzzy, LA-style restaurant serving Mexican-inspired dishes and delicious margaritas.
Members Only Paradise: Shoreditch House
Shoreditch House is a members-only haven that is a must-visit for any luxury traveler. The hotel boasts a rooftop pool with unparalleled views of the city, making it a true oasis in the heart of London.
But the culinary delights don’t stop there. Pen Yen, a Japanese restaurant within the hotel, serves up an array of delicious sushi, robata, and yuzu-laced desserts.
Pub with a View: The Culpeper
The Culpeper is not your typical hotel. This charming pub with rooms offers a cozy and intimate experience just a short walk from Spitalfields Market.
The ground floor features a bright and airy pub with hanging plants and wall-to-wall sash windows. Upstairs, a restaurant serves seasonal set menus, while the second floor houses five simple and elegant bedrooms with fireplaces and oak headboards. But the real treasure is the rooftop garden, complete with a firepit for chilly nights.
Sky-High Style: ME London
ME London offers a sleek and sophisticated experience in the heart of the city. The hotel’s contemporary design is evident throughout, from the rooms to the 10th floor Radio Rooftop.
This popular sky-high venue serves breakfast, lunch, dinner, and drinks with breathtaking views of the city. The rooms feature state-of-the-art technology, massive windows, and private balconies, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in London’s skyline.
Brutalist Beauty: The Standard
The Standard, with its iconic 1974 brutalist architecture, offers a unique and stylish experience in the heart of London. This first venue outside of the United States boasts an array of spaces to suit every budget.
The hotel’s rooftop bar, The Rooftop, is a brightly colored haven on the 11th floor. Enjoy punchy cocktails and wine on tap while taking in the stunning views. The menu also features light bites and American-style hot dogs, perfect for satisfying hunger pangs.
Country Charm in the City: Ham Yard Hotel
Despite its location in Soho, Ham Yard Hotel’s rooftop has all the charm and grandeur of a country estate. This quintessentially British space is full of character, featuring huge patterned headboards, green striped wallpaper, and a charming herb garden.
The Roof Terrace is usually reserved for hotel guests but hosts outdoor yoga, gin tastings, and cocktail sessions that are open to the public. So keep an eye out for special events.
London’s rooftop hotels offer a unique and unforgettable experience, combining luxurious amenities with breathtaking city views. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, a fun night out, or simply a place to relax and unwind, these rooftop havens are sure to impress. So, pack your bags, grab your friends, and prepare for an unforgettable journey into the sky.
