Want to sip delicious drinks under summer skies? Here are the best rooftop bars in the UK for doing just that
There are few better feelings in the world than heading out with your mates for a drink, whether it’s for a post-work pint at the local pub or a Saturday afternoon spritzer during golden hour. Genuinely name a greater pleasure. You can’t, can you? And where better to indulge in a sun-drenched tipple than at one of the country’s snazzy rooftop bars?
If you’re looking to enjoy Insta-worthy panoramas or fancy sipping away the day with some unusual cocktails that are as affordable as they are moreish, we’ve got you sorted. From Edinburgh to London, here’s our pick of the best rooftop bars in the UK for gorgeous views and excellent drinks.
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London
Whether you fancy cosying up on the wrap-around terrace on a summer evening or sipping the day away in the lounge while one of their many DJs takes to the stage, the relaxed, treehouse-inspired cocktail bar offers visitors a seriously unique drinking experience. With stunning 360-degree views of London, a playful, market-driven cocktail list and bar bites that draw inspiration from local ingredients, The Nest has a tropical getaway vibe to it, and honestly, we’re kind of obsessed.
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Bristol
Offering panoramic views of Bristol’s Avon Gorge and the iconic suspension bridge, the sophisticated Clifton Observatory is the perfect place to sip on a daytime tipple while taking in the stunning sights. Up here you’ll find a decent selection of alcoholic drinks of all kinds, and best of all, the whole place is dog-friendly, so you can bring your four-legged friend along to take in the scenery after a walk in the seventeenth-century grounds.
Birmingham
If you’re someone who loves an extravagant cocktail or afternoon tea, then you’re probably going to enjoy this modern bar in central Birmingham. With gorgeous views of the city and an impressive ‘cocktail kitchen’ that serves up some of the most Instagrammable concoctions you’ve probably ever seen, Sky By The Water is well worth a visit. The cocktails also include freshly-made extras such as macarons, candyfloss and even lollipops – so if you’re looking for a bar that doesn’t compromise on flair and flavour, then this one’s for you.
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Bath
We’d argue this has to be one of Bath’s best-kept secrets. The rooftop bar at Hall and Woodhouse is an ideal sun-trap for those warm summer-afternoon catch-ups, so it’s no wonder it’s super popular among locals and families alike. There’s an affordable selection of dishes on offer like crab ravioli and beer-battered fish and chips, as well as some quality cocktails, beers and wines to wash it all down. Whether you’re out on the town for a midweek date night or a weekend meet-up, the terrace is a great spot to sunbathe and sip.
Leeds
Smack bang in the city centre, this lively bar offers fantastic views of Leeds along with a great selection of affordable cocktails and beers, as well as delish pizzas for under a tenner. Known for its good vibes and friendly atmosphere, the Rooftop at East Parade throws some of the best parties in the city, making it pretty popular among young professionals and students.
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Manchester
If you’re a big fan of gin and like the sound of NYC, Atlas probably has the vibes for you. With dimly lit, industrial decor and more than 500 different gins behind the bar (yep, you read that right), as well as a plethora of yummy bar snacks like halloumi sticks and falafel sliders, it’s a perfect spot to go for a Friday night jaunt with some mates. The rooftop space has a half-and-half vibe that allows some visitors enjoy the sun while others snuggle up under the heaters on the terraced side with views of Manchester’s Bridgewater Canal.
Cambridge
Looking for a rooftop bar with a friendly atmosphere and sporty vibe? Boy, do we have the place for you. Nestled away on the top floor of the Tivoli shuffle and mini-golf bar, this rooftop bar is a vibrant space offering some properly stunning views across Cambridge. With modern decor and a beach vibe, all illuminated by festoon lights and a 75-inch TV screen, the bar is well placed for watching games or even one of the venue’s frequent open-air cinema soirées. And if you’re feeling competitive? You can head to the mini-golf downstairs and putt to your heart’s content.
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Belfast
Ngl, this might be one of the most romantic rooftop bars in the country. Just around the coner from Belfast’s City Hall, The Treehouse is a gorgeous terrace bar that is sure to be a hit with couples – although, due to its high-end menu, you might want to save this one for a special occasion. The Bohemian-style space is known for its intimate atmosphere and chic decor, which is illuminated by twinkly fairy lights and decked out with foliage-covered walls. With its wide variety of classic cocktails and sharing platters, this is a place you’re more than likely to fall in love with.
Edinburgh
The perfect place for foodies and champagne sippers alike, Nor’ is a slick yet welcoming rooftop bar in the heart of Edinburgh. With gorgeous views over the Scottish capital, seasonal sharing platters and a cheap AF oyster happy hour every Tuesday, you’re sure to feel bougie on a budget. And if things couldn’t get any better, there’s also a fizz menu that has been specially crafted to showcase local champagne houses and brands that are sure to knock your socks off. Cheers to that, eh?
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Cardiff
Nestled somewhere between high-rise hotels and office blocks, Jacobs Roof Garden as a laid-back yet vibrant bar decorated with festoon lights, canopies and wooden furniture that overlooks Cardiff’s city centre. Perched above the Jacobs antiques centre, the bar has a garden-party vibe that feels familiar, comfortable and refreshing at the same time. And with a variety of zesty cocktails that just taste like summer should, this is a spot that’s made for the warmer months.
Newcastle
Perched on the rooftop of Newcastle’s Vermont Hotel, ABOVE is a modern cocktail bar and nightclub that is sure to spice up your weekend plans. Sporting excellent 360-degree views of the city, the neon-lit bar offers a plethora of flavoursome pan-Asian bites and various lipsmacking cocktails to wash them all down.
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Liverpool
Right on Liverpool’s waterfront, Carpathia Rooftop is perfectly placed for you to see the city in a whole new light. With the Liver Building and Three Graces just down the road, it’s an Instagrammable spot that will more than likely tempt you to get your phone out and start snapping some pictures for your feed. The bar is home to a bunch of awesome mixologists and offers a good range of wines, gins and beers.
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