Sip, soak up the sun, and explore the capital’s coolest cocktail spots.
London comes alive in the summer — rooftop views, riverside lounging, and expertly mixed cocktails await. Whether you’re after skyline glamor, garden serenity, or underground cool, these top bars will elevate your summer sipping game. Here are our 12 must-visit bars in London this summer:
1. Lyaness, South Bank
Perched on the banks of the Thames inside the Sea Containers hotel, Lyaness is the stylish brainchild of award-winning bartender Ryan Chetiyawardana (aka Mr Lyan). Expect boundary-pushing cocktails in a lush, blue-and-gold setting with unbeatable views.
Order: BALOO-ZA – Diplomatico Planas rum, bear beer, “paw paw”, lion’s mane, bearberry, sour pineapple
2. Kaso Rooftop at One Hundred Shoreditch
This East London gem serves up Mediterranean and Aegean vibes and pastel-perfect sunsets over the city skyline. It’s the rooftop that influencers (and cocktail lovers) adore.
Order: MARGARISSA harissa – Patrón Reposado, pomegranate
3. The American Bar at The Savoy
Step into history — the American Bar remains one of the world’s most iconic hotel bars. This summer, enjoy white-jacket service, live piano, and heritage cocktails with a twist.
Order: Hanky Panky — a timeless London invention
4. Aqua Spirit, Soho
Overlooking Regent Street, Aqua Spirit is all about stylish city nights. With two rooftop terraces, Asian-inspired drinks, and a fashionable crowd, it’s a central London must.
Order: Shibuya Crossing — Bombay Sapphire Gin, Kumquat & Grapefruit Sherbet, Citrus, Sparklin Sake, Purple Shiso Tea
5. Nightjar Carnaby
A speakeasy tucked away near Carnaby Street, Nightjar blends jazz-age charm with decadent decor and rare spirits. It’s an atmospheric escape when the sun goes down.
Order: Anything from the Pre-Prohibition menu
6. The Culpeper Rooftop, Spitalfields
A pub, restaurant, and rooftop garden in one. The Culpeper grows its own herbs upstairs, which are used to garnish cocktails that feel as fresh as the air up there.
Order: Lilian Lakande – “A vibrant expression of Eastern France’s winemaking traditions.”
7. Bar Termini, Soho
Small but mighty, this Italian-style bar is perfect for pre-dinner drinks or a chic afternoon espresso martini. With only a few seats, it feels like a secret.
Order: House Negroni — expertly bottled and served over ice
8. Frank’s Café, Peckham
A summer icon since 2009. Located on the rooftop of a multi-storey car park, Frank’s is gritty, gorgeous, and buzzing with energy. Come for the negronis, stay for the skyline.
Order: Aperol Spritz or frozen daiquiri
9. Scarfes Bar, Holborn
Art, cocktails, and cozy elegance wrapped into one. Named after caricaturist Gerald Scarfe, this luxe bar offers storytelling cocktails and plush velvet seating — a classy shelter on moody days.
Order: The Great Chase
10. Boundary Rooftop, Shoreditch
Mediterranean dining, rooftop vibes, and summer wines await. With a retractable roof and heaters, this spot is ready no matter the weather — but it shines brightest in the sun.
Order: End of Argument
Ready to Raise the Bar?
Whether you’re a cocktail connoisseur, a rooftop roamer, or just in it for the views, London’s summer bar scene is unmatched. Book early, dress well, and toast to long evenings under London skies. Cheers!