Best Rooftop Bars in London for Summer Evenings

There was a time when London's rooftop bars could be counted on one hand. Now they seem to appear on every other new-build. The good news: competition has raised the standard. The bad news: plenty still charge £16 for a mediocre Aperol Spritz with a view of an air conditioning unit.

We've separated the genuinely good from the merely elevated.

Frank's Cafe, Peckham

The original and still one of the best. Frank's is a summer-only bar on top of a multi-storey car park in Peckham. The drinks are simple, the food is good, and the sunset views across London are spectacular. No bookings — just turn up and hope for a clear evening. Open May to September.

Madison, St Paul's

If you want drama, Madison delivers. Floor-to-ceiling views of St Paul's Cathedral from what feels like touching distance. The cocktails are competent and the terrace is large enough that you'll usually find a spot. Smart casual dress code applies after 5pm.

Netil360, London Fields

A scrappy, unpretentious rooftop bar in Hackney with DJs at weekends and a genuine neighbourhood feel. Not the highest viewpoint in London but one of the most relaxed. Good for a lazy Saturday afternoon.