Explore the Top Rooftops and Terraces in London
Back to ItineriesSummer in London is a wonderful time to enjoy the sunshine from some of the city’s charming rooftops and terraces.
If you’re looking for a place with great views, a cosy atmosphere, or a lively spot to hang out with friends, you’ll find plenty of options in the West End.
We’ve put together a list of some of the best places to enjoy refreshing drinks, tasty snacks, and the beautiful London skyline. Take a look at our recommendations for the top rooftops and terraces in the heart of the West End.
The Ritz London
For a blend of sophistication and relaxation in central London, look no further than The Ritz London’s Restaurant Terrace. With its sweeping views of Green Park, this elegant outdoor space is perfect for both fine dining and casual enjoyment.
From Monday to Friday, indulge in a Michelin-starred three-course lunch served from 12:30pm to 2:00pm. On weekends, the terrace transforms into a chic setting for à la carte dining, offering a variety of gourmet dishes to relish.
For a special treat, don’t miss the Caviar & Champagne Experience, available daily from 11:30am to 9:30pm. It’s your chance to indulge in luxurious caviar paired with exquisite champagne, all while enjoying the serene ambiance of The Ritz’s Restaurant Terrace, open until mid-September, weather permitting.
Franco’s
Step into Franco’s, one of London’s oldest Italian dining gems established in 1945. Nestled in the heart of St James’s, Franco’s offers an unforgettable Italian experience with a charming outdoor terrace.
This terrace season is the perfect time to savour Franco’s delectable Italian cuisine and refreshing cocktails al fresco. Enjoy the signature Franco’s 61 Botanical Gin cocktail, crafted with Giusti White Vinegar, lemon juice, Grenadine, and Champagne, or explore their diverse bar menu including alcohol-free options.
The outdoor terrace is the ideal spot to people-watch on Jermyn Street while indulging in authentic Italian dishes. Whether you’re in the mood for a set menu, vegan and vegetarian options, or a luxurious à la carte experience, Franco’s promises a delightful Italian escape.
The Dilly
Welcome to Terrace at The Dilly, a vibrant dining haven where elegance meets relaxation on the second floor.
Here, you can dine beneath graceful arches and a stunning slanting glass ceiling, while enjoying locally-sourced London cuisine in a bright and inviting space. Whether you’re starting your day with a scrumptious breakfast, catching up with friends over lunch, indulging in afternoon tea, or sipping evening drinks, Terrace at The Dilly offers a perfect setting for every occasion.
Plus let’s not forget, it’s the only outdoor terrace with a fantastic view of Piccadilly Circus!
Sofitel London St James
At Bistrot on the Terrace at Sofitel London St James, you’ll find a luxurious dining experience with stunning views right in the heart of St James.
From this elegant terrace, you can gaze upon the historic buildings and grand statues of Waterloo Place. After a delightful meal, take a leisurely stroll to nearby landmarks like Trafalgar Square, St James’s Park, or St James’s for a full day of London exploration.
Bistrot on the Terrace combines sophisticated surroundings with delectable cuisine, offering a prime location for an unforgettable dining experience.
45 Jermyn St
In partnership with Fortnum & Mason, 45 Jermyn St presents an exceptional dining experience in one of London’s most iconic locations.
Located in the heart of St James’s, this elegant spot invites you to enjoy a delightful breakfast, a leisurely lunch, or a memorable dinner. Whether you’re seeking a relaxed meal or a special evening out, you can experience the best of London’s vibrant dining scene from the comfort of your outdoor table.
The dining room and bar at 45 Jermyn St blend the glamour of a bygone era with contemporary elegance, featuring a menu that offers a creative mix of classic favourites and seasonal surprises.
Royal Academy of Arts
Step into the Courtyard Café, a delightful spot just outside Burlington House. Open seasonally, this charming outdoor café is the perfect place to unwind with a drink and a light snack.
As you enjoy your refreshments, take in the stunning view of “Meddling Fiend,” a captivating sculpture by Nicola Turner. This dramatic artwork, crafted from horsehair and sheep fleeces, features intricate tentacles that seem to come alive in the open air.
Come for the treats, stay for the art, and let the Courtyard Café be your cosy retreat in the heart of London.
The Portrait Restaurant
Experience The Portrait Restaurant, where refined British dining meets breathtaking views of Trafalgar Square. Located on the fourth floor of the National Portrait Gallery, this gem offers a menu crafted by the acclaimed chef Richard Corrigan.
Chef Corrigan’s philosophy is simple: source the finest ingredients and let the flavours shine. Delight in a selection of classic and inventive dishes from his celebrated career, paired with a wine list that includes both timeless favourites and exciting new finds.
For a quick yet delightful meal, try the set lunch or pre-theatre menu: just £34 for two courses or £39 for three.
The bar also serves up classic cocktails and bold aperitifs, including the new ‘Salt & Vinegar Martini,’ along with a tempting snack menu.
Featured Venues
The Ritz London
Restaurant
Located in the heart of London's cultural district, The Ritz London hotel boasts original, ornate Louis XVI interiors, 136 bedrooms and suites overlooking the Royal Green Park and Piccadilly. Serving afternoon tea in the spectacular Palm Court, cocktails in the Rivoli Bar, luxury hotel stays, The Ritz Casino and a cigar shop and sampling lounge.
Franco's
Restaurant
For over 75 years Franco’s has consistently provided a friendly, warm, welcoming sanctuary for everybody living, working and visiting St. James’s and Jermyn Street. The quality of food, hospitality and service has meant that Franco’s has remained a firm favourite with so many who return time and time again.
The Dilly
Hotel
Set in the heart of London's West End, The Dilly complements the hotel's vibrant cultural and architectural surroundings. Seconds away from St James's, Piccadilly Circus, and Leicester Square, this luxury 5-star hotel boasts a stunning indoor swimming pool and spacious, elegant rooms for hotel guests. Plus, open to both guests and visitors, enjoy a superb meal in The Terrace restaurant overlooking Piccadilly, or a mouth-watering cocktail concoction in the Maskelyn & Cook bar.
Sofitel London St James
Hotel
A Grade II listed building, the five-star hotel, Sofitel London St James lies in the heart of the prestigious district of St James’s. Combining traditional British design and contemporary French elegance, the hotel boasts 183 bedrooms, and an all-day café restaurant, Wild Honey St James; an elegant Rose Lounge, ideal for afternoon tea, and the chic St James Bar complete the experience along with an award-winning spa. With 12 versatile function rooms, the luxury hotel is equally perfect for leisure and business guests.
45 Jermyn St.
Restaurant
A destination restaurant in the heart of St James’s. The exquisite dining room and bar brings back the golden age of glamour and service for a contemporary London. Open every day for breakfast, lunch and dinner, they serve an innovative combination of familiar favourites and delicious surprises, across a menu inspired by the season and designed for a global palate.
Royal Academy of Arts
Gallery
The Royal Academy of Arts is a world-renowned art institution based in Burlington House on Piccadilly, London. For over 250 years, the RA has existed to champion art and artists and offers a place where art is made, exhibited and debated. Enjoy their expanded campus with free displays, new spots to eat, drink and shop, and much more.
National Portrait Gallery
Gallery
The National Portrait Gallery sits seconds away from Leicester Square and Trafalgar Square, London. It was the first portrait gallery in the world when it opened in 1856 and houses the world's largest collection of personalities and faces, from the late Middle Ages to the present day.