The Best Rooftop Bars In East London

The perfect, seasonal hangout in the heart of East London, TT Liquor where’s many hats. On the surface, you have an old-fashioned liquor store which seemingly stocks a variety of exotic drinks from around the world. There’s a bar to enjoy your drinks through a not-so-secret speakeasy entrance (its nearly always wide open and you don’t need to worry about passwords), and also a large cinema in somewhere in here. For a more intimate feel head to the Cellar Bar where the staff will be happy to make you whatever you want. Then there are a couple of event spaces, one of which offers fun cocktail making classes.

Finally we get to the rooftop terrace, a relatively recent addition which has become one of the most popular spots in this part of the city. As expected the views are great but its the great food and drink offered up here that really stand out. You can get a walk in if you’re lucky, but its best to book in advance as it gets very busy in the evenings.

One of the most famous venues on the London rooftop scene, Queen of Hoxton is known for inspired twice-yearly themes, and this summer is all about Cuba. Sip a dulce de leche cocktail, nibble on a Cubano, and indulge in a spot of dominoes while you listen to Cuban storytellers. Fame, however, has its downsides, and the place can be heaving on a warm night. Either go straight after work, or drop by later in the night to enjoy the Queen at her best.

A little closer to the heart of the city, and a million miles away from multi-purpose arts spaces in Hackney, Coq D’Argent is a classically elegant venue to reserve for just after payday. Prices may be mildly wince-inducing, but the surroundings are more than worth it. Head to the roof to discover sweeping lawns, topiary worthy of a French chateau, and views to inspire serious Instagram envy. If quirky pop-ups aren’t cutting it, Coq D’Argent is the real deal, with proper grass to prove it. Take the time to peruse the extremely comprehensive wine list.

Far from being a standard rooftop bar, Dalston Roof Park also offers a stimulating, diverse programme of gigs, supper clubs, film screenings and yoga across the summer. The eclectic furniture and white picket fencing gives it the feel of a house party where everyone has collectively decided to drag everything up to the roof; drinks in plastic cups further cement that feeling. Choose from a relaxed area with seating, or kick things up a notch under the canopies where music is louder and people dance on the astroturf.

Netil House is one of those studio/art gallery/co-working spaces that East London seems to do best, but it’s also host to a fine array of day parties courtesy of Netil360. Pared down decking sets this rooftop apart from its more colourful cousins, but that isn’t to say it’s not as fun. In fact, their events calendar is bursting at the seams. Drinks are well priced, views are striking, and there’s something for everyone – including hot tubs, a croquet lawn, and a cinema tent.

Bringing New England warmth to East London, the Nantucket Beach Club pop-up at SkyLounge is perfect for those longing to be beside the seaside. Refreshing cocktails served in mason jars accompany buckets of lobster, followed by a highly authentic Boston cream pie. Enjoy the swing bench, observe the lighthouse, and enjoy a spot of rooftop bowling. The Cape Codder Ale — Snow Queen vodka, cranberry juice and ginger ale — comes highly recommended, as does the lobster mac and cheese.