We’re well into December now–and the season of work parties, drinks with our loved ones and festive nights is upon us. What do all those activities have in common? They are all perfectly suited to be held at a rooftop bar. And of course, bonus points for said rooftop bars that have transformed their spaces into delightful winter terraces. These bars do just that, beckoning us all to enjoy a mulled wine as we gaze out of London’s prestigious skyline. One more round? Silly question; it’s Christmas, ya filthy animals.
1) Willows on the Roof
It’s back, and this time it’s coming at you with an igloo edition. Willows On The Roof is gracing our presence on Oxford Street, decorating the top of John Lewis in festive style. Wintery igloos to dine in are this year’s headline addition, but there’s also lovely new food and tipples from Tacos el Rey and Local Greens to sink your teeth into. Other than that, can we just admire how incredible it looks? Thanks. Read more about Willows on the Roof here.
2) Sky Garden
Sky Garden is handy all year round for the best views over London, but it must be said that it’s look particularly fine in Christmas decoration right now. They’ve got big, big plans for New Year’s Eve, but pop over any time until then for a stream of champagne, music events and unrivalled sights of London’s skyline. Read about their Christmas makeover here.
3) London Bridge Rooftop
This is so Christmassy it puts the McCallister family home to shame. We can’t promise that Kevin will be left alone there, but those lights are as festive as they look and it’s just making me want to glug down some mulled wine. Which you can do here, conveniently. Plus, there’s cups of orange hot chocolate to wash down the pigs in blankets you just ordered. They’ve got all Christmas bases covered. Read more about London Bridge Rooftop here.
4) Pergola Paddington
Because Pergola can always be relied to move with the seasons in style, can’t they? Whether it’s Oktoberfest or just the summer (we miss you, come back), Pergola Paddington always have a trick up their sleeve to coat their beautiful terrace in sublime fashion. For Christmas this year, it’s no different; head there for ‘Pergola on the Piste’–a fine impression of an alpine ski-lodge that features mountain murals and even a secluded chairlift. Find out more and book your place here.
5) Queen of Hoxton
Shoreditch’s finest knows exactly how to rejig their fine rooftop terrace to fit with a theme. Previously kitted out in fine cherry blossom bloom, the bar is now awash with winter delight; in the form of an après ski-lodge theme. There’s no cable car to take you up, but don’t let that put you off–it’s looking like a treat up there, with tantalising cocktails and a devilish menu to match. Read more about it here.
6) Wagtail
You want more igloos? Your wish is my Wagtail’s command. Two of the wintery staples have set up shop for the season on the lovely Wagtail Winter Wonderland rooftop terrace. Shuffle in to enjoy their delicious food, fine wine and cocktails among the festive fairy lights. Read more about Wagtails winter terrace here.
7) Sabine
You’ve probably noticed that we bang on about this place quite a lot. But when a spot has both gorgeous views of St Paul’s Cathedral and a reputation for revamping their terrace with the seasons, you just know we are going to be intrigued. It’s safe to say that Sabine have not disaspointed, with a fine winter terrace waiting for you to waltz up to. Candy cane cocktails and stylish green décor complete the enchanted forest theme, and the snow-capped winter foliage matches the weather we enjoyed/endured (delete as appropriate) earlier this week. Read more about Sabine here.
8) The Rooftop at The Trafalgar St. James
Another sky-high option in central London is brought to us by The Trafalgar St. James, with their bar The Rooftop providing a mean option for the final days of 2022. Festivities comes in the form of their fine winter cocktails—I’ve got my eye on the Maple Kiss, which is made up with pisco, red wine, maple spice, hibiscus and orange blossom. Find out more about The Rooftop here.
9) PocketSquare
PocketSquare is fairly recent addition to London’s skyline full of rooftop bars, but it’s more than earned its stripes since opening in summer 2021. For winter, it’s a different kind of ball game, and their ‘Light and Warmth’ winter terrace delivers a festive treat. Their cocktails are themed around fictional characters, including the Curiouser, based on the Cheshire Cat from Alice In Wonderland. I know what book I’m reading tonight, and which cocktail I’ll be sipping come the weekend. Book your place at PocketSquare here.
10) Laurel’s On The Roof
This cosy-as-hell winter alfresco terrace is here for December and into the early moments of 2023 over at Hollywood-inspired Laurel’s On The Roof. A winter chalet comes in partnership with Grey Goose, transporting guests from the cold streets of Shoreditch to the colder territory of a Californian mountain resort in winter. Don’t worry, though. There’s plenty of heaters to keep things toasty as you tuck into festive menu and sink a few glasses of bubbly. It’s! Christmas! After! All! Book your place at Laurel’s On The Roof here.