10-of-london-s-best-rooftops-and-terraces

10 of London’s best rooftops and terraces

With summertime in our midst, it’s only right that you’re in the know of London’s best sky-high spots. Luckily, here at DesignMyNight have the low-down on all the best rooftop terraces serving up ice-cold refreshments and stunning views in the capital. From a car park transformed into an adult playground with American-style batting cages to a secret rooftop where you can toast marshmallows and sip cocktails, mocktails and more, consider this your summer bible.

1. Roof East

Looking for somewhere unique to visit this summer? Cue Roof East; a rooftop that boasts London’s first ever rooftop roller disco. Located atop a multi-storey car park in the heart of Stratford, let your inner child and competitive side run riot with endless games of crazy golf, urban bowls and baseball in American-style batting cages. If you're not the sporty type, snuggle up under the stars at their rooftop film club.

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2. Bangarang at The Queen of Hoxton

Has that final dissertation left you dreaming of Neverland? East London hotspot Queen of Hoxton have transformed their rooftop space into Bangarang; a Peter Pan-themed paradise for all of London’s lost boys and girls. Leave adulthood at street level and head towards the clouds to a place where gigantic clams, mermaids, blue lagoons and pirate ships reign supreme. Keeping in with their theme, The Lost Boy’s Bar will serve everything from mermaid slushies to shots in shells.

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3. The Roof Gardens

Sitting pretty 100ft above Kensington is The Roof Gardens; a swanky rooftop engulfed in beautiful flowers and palm trees. Make all of your al fresco summer dreams a reality this year and visit the sky-high space for a healthy dose of vitamin D, hand-crafted cocktails and a spot of flamingo spotting.

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4. Aviary

Have you heard of Aviary? It’s located on the 10th floor of the Montcalm Royal London House Hotel and it’s one of London’s newest and hottest bars. Not only does it boast a stylish alfresco terrace but spectacular views of London’s skyline too. This place specialises in natural, botanical cocktails making it an absolute must-visit.

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5. Bird Of Smithfield

The Bird Of Smithfield built its nest in a five-storey Georgian townhouse and it has plenty to brag about, including an intimate basement bar and a cute-to-boot dining room, but we’re absolutely smitten with their new and improved roof terrace. It’s decorated with plush greenery and it has jasmine trees adorning its walls - if you ask us, it’s the ideal spot to escape London’s busy streets. Offering a summer-ready selection of spritz cocktails and a light summer dishes, it’s going to be one of this year’s hottest hangouts.

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6. Brunel Rooftop/Midnight Apothecary

If you're on the hunt for a rooftop spot suitable for date night, make tracks for Midnight Apothecary. Hidden atop Brunel Museum, you’ll find a secret garden with a roaring campfire for toasted marshmallows and an abundance of botanical cocktails to quench your thirst. Looking to save some dosh? They have a wallet-friendly happy hour deal on Fridays.

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7. Brixton Beach

You needn't blow the last of your loan on a sunny getaway this summer. Brixton Beach is back and it’s bringing another season of beach vibes, cocktails and street food to south London. Boasting golden sand, colourful deckchairs and a smashing DJ line-up, this is one summer pop-up you simply can’t miss.

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8. Proud Camden

A country garden in the heart of Camden may sound unlikely but Proud Camden have transformed their rooftop into a quintessentially English garden and it fits in seamlessly to the kooky borough. Once an Alice in Wonderland-inspired space, expect a beautifully landscaped space with a flower-laden pergola and a couple of water features thrown in for good measure. Head here during the day for acoustic music sessions or visit a little later for upbeat DJ sets.

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9. Jimmy's BBQ Club

Any culture-savvy students are likely well aware of Southbank’s charm by now, but things are about to get even better in this London hub thanks to Jimmy’s BBQ Club. It’s spread across two floors, but we recommend scooting upstairs. Not only will you have crisp views of the Thames but you can tuck into an interactive six-course tasting menu and toast marshmallows over their open, built-in BBQ too.

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10. The Driver

Can you keep a secret? There’s a hidden roof terrace tucked away in King’s Cross and it’s the ideal place for a chilled drink in the sun. Located atop The Driver, it mightn’t be the biggest terrace in the world, but it’s intimate as hell and it’s topdog if you’re adamant on catching some freckles. Decked out with low-slung tables, quirky elephant-shaped seating and leafy potted plants, visit here asap before word gets out.

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For more info on what’s on in London and across the UK, visit DesignMyNight and follow them on Twitter and Instagram; @DesignMyNight.

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