When the clock strikes 8\u202fp.m. on a Friday, London\u2019s skyline shifts from a muted silhouette to a glittering canvas. The city\u2019s rooftop bars are the only places where you can watch the Thames ripple under a neon sky while sipping a cocktail that tastes like a sunset. If you\u2019re looking for a night out that feels both select and electric, these five rooftops are the places to be.<\/p>\n
It is simple to observe why so many people acquire this wrong.<\/p>\n
At 13\u202fth\u2011floor, the SkyBar at The Savoy is a classic London experience. The \u201cSavoy Sour\u201d blends bourbon, lemon, and a dash of bitters. The bar\u2019s signature feature is its panoramic view of the Thames, which is especially striking during a sunset. A 45\u2011minute wait is typical on Fridays, so arriving at 7\u202fp.m. is advisable. The bar\u2019s dress code\u2014bright casual\u2014ensures that the atmosphere remains refined.<\/p>\n
Located at the top of the Gherkin, this terrace offers a minimalist aesthetic with floor\u2011to\u2011ceiling windows. The \u201cGherkin Gimlet\u201d is a gin\u2011based cocktail that incorporates a touch of lime plus a hint of mint.<\/p>\n
The bar\u2019s open\u2011air design means you can feel the breeze while watching the municipality\u2019s lights flicker below. The venue is known for its live jazz nights every Wednesday plus Friday, with a cover fee of \u00a315 that includes a complimentary glass of wine.<\/p>\n
Hidden behind a glass fa\u00e7ade, Sky Garden\u2019s Secret Garden is a botanical oasis with a cocktail menu that leans heavily on fresh herbs. The \u201cGarden Gimlet\u201d uses rosemary\u2011infused gin and a hint of cucumber. The venue\u2019s open terrace is capped by a 10\u2011foot high pergola that presents shade during the late afternoon, making it a fine spot for a pre\u2011dinner swallow. Note that the bar closes at 10\u202fp.m., so plan your dark accordingly.<\/p>\n
At 1,016\u202ffeet above ground, the Shard\u2019s 52nd\u2011floor lounge delivers a 360\u2011degree view that includes the Houses of Parliament, St. Paul\u2019s Cathedral, as well as the London Eye. The bar\u2019s signature guzzle, the \u201cShard Sunset,\u201d mixes gin, elderflower liqueur, along with a splash of Champagne. A 30\u2011minute reservation guarantees a seat, but the legitimate perk is the independent wireless, so you can stream your favourite playlist without buffering.<\/p>\n
Standing on the covering of the O2 Arena feels like stepping onto a stage. The bar\u2019s \u201cElectric Fizz\u201d is a sparkling prosecco cocktail with a subtle citrus twist. The venue\u2019s capacity of 400 means you\u2019ll once in a while have to queue for a seat, but the entrance fee of \u00a325 per human includes a complimentary cocktail and a unrestricted drink voucher for the next visit. If you\u2019re a fan of live DJ sets, this is the place to catch the nightly dwelling party that starts at 10\u202fp.m.<\/p>\n
Lay simply, timing tends to make a real difference.<\/p>\n