3 Of The Best - Rooftop Bars With Views

In a few short weeks we’ll be looking to bid a cheery farewell to the short days and icy evenings of winter as spring (hopefully) kicks in. And what better way to see in the longer, milder and brighter afternoons than by enjoying a sky high cocktail with a view?
 
With so many bars utilising their rooftops as terraces these days there are many vistas to choose from. Here we take a look at just a few of our favourites.
 
 
Cold Town House, Grassmarket, Edinburgh

 
Scotland’s capital is somewhere that offers many an iconic view, with Arthur’s Seat and Carlton Hill rewarding those who make the long ascent with breathtaking panoramas over this beautiful city.
 
If, however, you prefer to enjoy your views with a drink, or wish to avoid burning calves, then Cold Town House takes some beating.
 
Cold Town Beer is a microbrewery who made their name producing some top tier craft brews. Some five years ago they raised a few eyebrows when they took on a historic old church at the end of the iconic Grassmarket in the shadow of the famous Edinburgh castle.
 
After a comprehensive renovation the result is a slick yet casual, multi-level venue offering not only their own fine ales but also cocktails and pizza. The jewel in the crown of this wee beauty though has to be the roof terrace.
 
With plants hanging from pergolas, a bar within a vintage French truck and even booths fashioned from former ski gondolas, this is a rooftop with something for everyone. And all of this can be enjoyed as one of Britain’s finest castles towers almost improbably overhead, pretty unique.
 
Be sure to book though as, unsurprisingly, this is a very popular spot with visitors and locals alike.
 
 
Forza Wine, Peckham, London

 
Until fairly recent times Peckham wasn’t really an area renowned for picturesque views, or hip bars serving up small plates and natural wines for that matter. However, the rapid gentrification in the area means that there are now an ever-growing number of spots to do just that, and Forza Wine is right up at the top of the list.
 
Perched high atop a recently renovated Edwardian building that once housed a theatre, Forza Wine is situated right across the street from Peckham Rye station. Opened in 2019, it’s become one of South East London’s hottest tickets.
 
It is only once the lift doors open (or, in our case, the many flights of stairs were climbed due to it being out of order) that you see what all the fuss is about. Here you instantly appreciate that you are actually surprisingly high up and - as a result - the views are surprisingly impressive.
 
In one direction your view takes you over leafy South London taking in Dulwich Park and far beyond and to the other you can see right across to the city and a number of its iconic landmarks.
 
Chuck in fresh and sensibly priced Italian food, an extensive wine list and (drum roll) soft serve ice cream and you realise why they’re onto a real winner here.
 
 
One Hundred, Shoreditch, London

 
Shoreditch isn’t an area of town that is short of the odd bar or two. It has long been known as a party destination and as a result there are watering holes to suit every thirsty punter.
 
What sets the bar at the recently opened One Hundred hotel (formerly the much loved Ace) apart is the amazing roof terrace bar.
 
Admittedly, it isn’t somewhere to buy a cheap round but the breathtaking views make it worth every penny. Reaching out far beyond Shoreditch, across the high rises of the City and towards St. Paul’s Cathedral and London Bridge. 
 
Another big tick for this particular rooftop is the fact that it can be enjoyed even if the weather takes a turn for the worse. Should the rain clouds appear then the outdoor terrace can be covered, and if things take a considerable turn for the worse then you can even take your cocktail inside and still take in the vista from a table or one of the plush sofas.
 
You don’t have to be a resident at the hotel to frequent the rooftop bar, but booking is strongly advised.