The best outdoor rooftop and summer terraces in London

One of the best things about the spring and summer season — apart from the longer days — is the return of outdoor and rooftop terraces in London and beyond. Few things feel as good as sipping on a cocktail on a rooftop terrace on a hot summer day. 

Whether you’re looking for a great date spot this summer or if you simply want to hang out with your group of friends, you can never go wrong with a good outdoor or rooftop terrace with gorgeous views.

From al fresco dining at the much-loved Japanese robatayaki restaurant Roka to enjoying summer spritzes on the rooftop terrace of JOIA in Battersea, we have compiled a list of the best outdoor and rooftop terraces in London that should definitely be on your radar this summer.Luca, Clerkenwell

If you’re looking for a taste of Italy from the comfort of Clerkenwell, then Luca is the place for you. With their foliage-filled terrace back open for the summer, guests can experience head chef Robert Chambers’ contemporary take on Italian cuisine, which observes the traditions of Italian cooking but breaks the rules a little with British twists, to deliver a menu of modern classics. 

Guests can enjoy some signature spritz and cocktails alongside some delicious plates of parmesan fries and monkfish crudo — all surrounded by olive and jasmine trees for the true Italian experience right here in London.65a, Spitalfields

Sitting right on the edge of the ever bustling Spitalfields Market, 65a is a brasserie style restaurant that boasts a bright and expansive terrace for guests to enjoy some elegant French-inspired dishes while basking in the sun.

The terrace has been designed in collaboration with planting experts Palais London and is a great place to relax and unwind from the liveliness of London’s East End.Yasmin, Soho

This newly opened restaurant and bar features a wrap-around terrace that sits perfectly on the sixth floor of 1 Warwick, Soho. 

The secluded terrace is the perfect place to sample some delectable Middle Eastern sharing plates and sundowner cocktails, Overlooking the busy streets below, Yasmin boasts a chic aesthetic that is the perfect setting for guests to enjoy dishes from executive chef Tom Cenci, who has created a menu inspired by his time living and cooking in Istanbul.The Hari, Belgravia

The Hari in Belgravia has partnered with Maison Ruinart to launch a brand new summer terrace. Featuring a selection of carefully curated champagne cocktails, The Hari’s terrace has been transformed into an ethereal secret garden, brimming with orchids, rose petals and flowering lily stems.

Serving delightful tipples, including the Pomello Spritz, Limoncello O’Clock and the Negroni Sbagliato, and accompanied by a curated pairing menu of seasonal summer nibbles from il Pampero’s Italian kitchen, the terrace offers an idyllic setting to gather this summer. Roka, Mayfair

Roka, the acclaimed Japanese robatayaki restaurant, is home to two al fresco terraces in Charlotte Street and Mayfair. 

Come spring and summer, Roka’s sophisticated, verdant terraces are perfect for enjoying the robata-grilled meats and immaculately presented sushi and sashimi, alongside wines, sake and cocktails.

Guests can also indulge in Roka’s 20th anniversary seasonal menus launching throughout the year to celebrate the restaurant’s 20th anniversary.The Beaumont Hotel, Mayfair

The Beaumont Hotel’s chic, sheltered Le Magritte terrace is a great spot for anyone looking to transport back in time with sophisticated elegance.

Overlooking Mayfair’s Brown Hart Gardens, this terrace features 1920s-style rattan armchairs, blankets, heaters and café tables enfolded by lush greenery. Enjoy some classic cocktails and whiskies alongside a menu of transatlantic dishes, or smoke a Cuban cigar from the hotel’s immaculate collection. JOIA Rooftop, Battersea

JOIA Rooftop, the vibrant bar and rooftop terrace on the 16th floor of Battersea Power Station is back for the summer for another season of small plates and sundowner cocktails.

Perched above JOIA, the hotel’s resident Iberian restaurant, the rooftop bar offers snacks, tapas and petiscos from chef Henrique Sá Pessoa. Expect menu exclusives, live entertainment and bank holiday barbecues throughout summer, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring the Power Station.Pan Pacific London, Liverpool Street

Pan Pacific London has partnered with rosé brand Roseblood to bring the essence of Provence’s captivating countryside to the middle of London. The result is a summer terrace takeover at Bishopsgate Plaza.

All summer long, guests can visit the expansive terrace that has been transformed into a garden oasis complete with an array of planters and beautiful blooms. The seasonal terrace will offer a sharing menu featuring charcuterie, fromage, crudités and Mediterranean flatbreads alongside Roseblood wines and cocktails.The Landmark London, Marylebone

The Landmark London has partnered with VIVIR Tequila to launch the summer terrace at the hotel’s Mirror Bar. The terrace launch comes with a limited edition cocktail menu, making it the perfect destination for pre-dinner cocktails or late-night drinks.

Whether you’re a tequila aficionado or simply seeking a taste of summer sophistication, indulge in a menu filled with VIVIR tequila’s finest cocktails concoctions for a perfect London evening.

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