16
Nov,2025
When the rain hits London, most rooftop bars shut down - but not these.
London’s skyline is full of rooftop bars with sweeping views of the Thames, the Shard, and the London Eye. But if you’ve ever been caught in a sudden downpour while sipping a gin and tonic on an open terrace, you know the problem: one cloud, one gust of wind, and your evening turns soggy. The good news? London has dozens of rooftop bars that are fully covered, heated, and open year-round. You don’t need to wait for summer. You don’t need to check the forecast. You just need to know where to go.
What makes a rooftop bar truly weather-proof?
A glass roof isn’t enough. A few umbrellas and a couple of space heaters don’t cut it either. A real weather-proof rooftop bar has three things: a solid, permanent cover that keeps rain and wind out, proper heating that actually warms the space, and seating that doesn’t feel like you’re sitting in a greenhouse. Some places call themselves "covered" but still have open sides. That’s not weather-proof - that’s just less wet.
Look for bars with full-height glass walls that seal shut, underfloor heating, or even built-in fire pits. The best ones also have retractable roofs or panels you can open when the sun comes out. That way, you get the best of both worlds: protection when you need it, and openness when you don’t.
The top 5 covered rooftop bars in London
1. The Sky Garden - Walkie Talkie
At 120 meters up, The Sky Garden isn’t just covered - it’s a glass-walled jungle with panoramic views of the City. The entire space is enclosed under a curved glass dome, with indoor plants, heated floors, and multiple levels of seating. You can grab a cocktail at the bar, sit by the fireplace, or book a table by the window. It’s free to enter (book ahead), and the lighting turns golden at sunset. This is the most popular covered rooftop in London for a reason: it’s warm, dry, and feels like a luxury greenhouse.
2. 100 Wardour Street - The Roof
Hidden above a Soho cocktail bar, The Roof has a retractable glass roof that opens in summer and seals shut in winter. It’s lined with velvet booths, brass lamps, and real wood paneling. The heating system kicks in automatically when the temperature drops. You won’t find a single outdoor table here - every seat is protected. Their signature drink, the Spiced Pear Old Fashioned, comes with a side of live jazz on weekends. The vibe? Cozy, intimate, and never crowded.
3. The Rooftop at The Standard, King’s Cross
This one’s got a trick: a fully enclosed glass atrium with a retractable ceiling. In winter, it’s a warm, lantern-lit lounge with sheepskin throws on every chair. In summer, the ceiling slides back to reveal the sky. The bar serves craft cocktails with names like "London Fog" and "Foggy Day" - a nod to the weather. The view? The Gherkin, the BT Tower, and the railway arches below. It’s the only rooftop bar in London with both a heated outdoor terrace and a fully enclosed indoor section - meaning you can switch locations without leaving the building.
4. The Garden at The Ned
Inside the grand old Ned hotel, The Garden is a three-level rooftop space with a glass ceiling and floor-to-ceiling windows on all sides. The lower level has a real lawn (indoor, of course), while the upper deck is wrapped in warm lighting and leather banquettes. The heat comes from radiant panels under the tables, not just blowers. You can order a whisky flight while watching the rain slide down the glass. No umbrellas needed. No coats required. Just good drinks and a view of St. Paul’s.
5. 8 Northumberland Avenue - The Rooftop
Close to Trafalgar Square, this one’s easy to miss. But once you’re up, you won’t want to leave. The entire rooftop is enclosed under a glass canopy with heated stone floors and built-in fire pits. The bar serves British-inspired cocktails like the "London Mist" (gin, elderflower, and a hint of smoked salt). The seating is arranged in private nooks, so you don’t feel like you’re in a crowded mall. It’s the quietest covered rooftop in central London - perfect for a date or a solo night out.
What to expect when you visit
These bars aren’t just about staying dry. They’re about comfort, atmosphere, and quality. You won’t find plastic chairs or cheap plastic umbrellas here. You’ll get real furniture, proper lighting, and bartenders who know how to make a drink that warms you from the inside out.
Most of these places require reservations, especially on weekends. Some, like The Sky Garden, are free to enter but charge for drinks. Others, like The Rooftop at The Standard, have cover charges during peak hours. Always check their website before you go - opening hours change with the seasons.
What to wear
Even in a covered rooftop bar, London’s chill gets in. You don’t need a heavy coat, but you should avoid shorts and flip-flops. Think smart casual: a nice sweater, a long-sleeve shirt, or a light blazer. Most places have a dress code - no sportswear, no flip-flops, no baseball caps. You’re not at a pub. You’re in a place designed for lingering, not rushing.
Best times to go
Weekdays after 6 PM are quietest. If you want to avoid the crowds, skip Friday and Saturday nights. Sunset is magic - the city lights turn on just as the sky fades. If you’re going for the view, aim for 7:30 PM. If you’re going for the vibe, come later - the music kicks up, the drinks flow, and the warmth settles in.
Why these bars matter
London’s weather doesn’t have to ruin your night out. These covered rooftop bars prove that you don’t have to choose between a great view and staying dry. They’ve turned a seasonal problem into a year-round experience. Whether you’re a local who’s tired of the same pub or a visitor who wants to see the city in style, these spots offer something rare: a place where the sky is always in view - even when it’s raining.
What to do next
Make a list of your top three from this list. Book a table. Check the weather forecast - not to cancel, but to appreciate the difference. Then go. Order something you wouldn’t normally try. Sit by the window. Watch the city lights reflect on wet streets below. You’ll realize why these places aren’t just bars - they’re escapes.
Are all covered rooftop bars in London heated?
Not all. Many places advertise as "covered" but only have basic space heaters or no heating at all. The ones listed here have proper heating systems - underfloor heating, radiant panels, or fire pits. Always check the bar’s website or call ahead to confirm.
Do I need to book ahead for covered rooftop bars?
Yes, almost always. Even if a bar says "walk-ins welcome," weekends fill up fast. Some, like The Sky Garden, require free online reservations weeks in advance. Others, like The Rooftop at The Standard, let you book tables for specific times. Don’t risk showing up and being turned away.
Can I bring a group to a covered rooftop bar?
Most can accommodate groups, but you’ll need to reserve a table in advance. Large groups (6+ people) often need to book a private section or pay a minimum spend. Smaller bars like 8 Northumberland Avenue are better for intimate groups. Larger ones like The Garden at The Ned can handle parties of 10 or more.
Are these rooftop bars child-friendly?
Generally, no. Most rooftop bars in London are adults-only after 6 PM, even if covered. Some, like The Sky Garden, allow children before 6 PM, but they’re not designed for families. If you’re looking for kid-friendly views, try a restaurant terrace instead.
What’s the average cost for a drink at these bars?
Cocktails range from £14 to £22. Wine starts at £9 per glass, and beers are around £8. Most places have a £10 minimum spend per person. If you’re on a budget, go on a weekday or during happy hour - some bars offer 2-for-1 drinks between 5 PM and 7 PM.
