The Best Rooftop Bars for Summer Evenings in 2023
When the sun is shining in the UK, you have to make the most of it. It’s the perfect excuse to relax, drink margaritas and take your new chunky sandals out for a spin (give or take a packet of plasters). DesignMyNight has put together a roundup of the best rooftops in the UK, with everything from floral fantasias, to fancier-than-thou bars. Quality clinking time has never looked so good.
Doghouse - Manchester
Who knew being in the Doghouse could actually be a good thing? This BrewDog bar in Manchester is the ultimate hangout spot in the city. Their roof terrace is the perfect place to sit and chill in the blazing sun with a pint of Punk IPA in hand. It’s no secret that these guys are known for their vast selection of beers, so visiting gives you an excuse to start making your way through their collection. If you’re wanting a weekend away in the sunshine, then this place is also a hotel - so you can enjoy this beautifully balmy rooftop on your doorstep.
Chaophraya - Edinburgh
The city of Edinburgh is a stunner, much like your brand new River Island co-ord set. Visiting this historic hotspot gives you the perfect excuse to wine and dine, so where better to do so than Chaophraya. This Thai restaurant and bar has the dreamiest roof terrace boasting incredible views of the city (just imagine what the sunsets look like). It’s also the perfect place to sit back, relax, and enjoy one of their many fabulous cocktails on offer - we recommend the ‘ring of fire’, it’s hot stuff.
Sabine Rooftop Bar - London
If you’re on the hunt for a banging rooftop in the big smoke that’s got as much style as your summer wardrobe, then look no further. Sabine Rooftop Bar is a boujee and beautiful spot situated right next to St Paul’s Cathedral. Sit back and idle over the city below whilst enjoying a classic marg or long island ice tea (if you’re looking to have a boozy one). Their secret garden oasis provides a tranquil experience that’s hard to find amongst the hustle and bustle of the city.
Oculist - Brighton
There’s nothing like spending a hot summer’s day chilling on Brighton beach. But if you’re looking for a place to unwind that’s a little set back from the crowds, then why not check out Oculist. This quirky, hidden gem of a pub along the south coast is known for its sun trapped roof terrace fit with a bar to make sure you never go thirsty. Better still, if you’re feeling a bit peckish after a long, hard day of sunbathing, then opt for bao buns, dumplings or noodles from Daddy’s Dim Sum - does it get much better than that?
The Botanist - Cardiff
Only those living under a rock haven’t heard of The Botanist. There’s one of these floral delights in most major cities across the UK, with Cardiff being no exception. Their outdoor terrace is a beauty, especially when the sun is shining. Enjoy sipping cocktails in plant pots and take in all their floral flavours whilst admiring the city surroundings. There’s also food on offer for those wanting to go all out, including their famous hanging kebabs which look, and taste, incredible.
The Terrace - Exeter
The Terrace is a popular location in the heart of Exeter where daytime delights and night-time revelries collide under one roof. Whether you're up for long lazy lunches, bottomless brunches, or late-night dinners, this place has got you covered. The botanical themed cocktails look just as good as they taste, all with their own flowery twist. But if one or two isn’t enough, you can always order a passionfruit martini tree or the moji-tub (that’s six mojitos in a mini bathtub - let that sink in) for the table as an extra treat.
Gino D’Acampo - Liverpool
ITV chef sensation and all round funny guy, Gino D’Acampo, has opened a 360 sky bar and restaurant on the 18th floor of INNSiDE in Liverpool. Experience the city’s sensational views whilst enjoying a cheeky glass (or two) of rosé. But if you’re looking for something a little extra special, you should seek out Gino’s secret garden (but don’t tell anyone). Here, you can sip on cocktails in the summer sun whilst admiring sunsets over Liverpool. Better yet, this place has one of the largest selections of prosecco in the UK, so crack open that bottle of bubbly.
Urban Garden - Bournemouth
In the heart of Bournemouth's town centre lies the Urban Garden, a rooftop haven that's all about embracing the seasons. Perched amongst the trees, their enchanting treetop spot offers more than just stunning views. Picture yourself enjoying a candlelit three-course feast or grab a quick caffeine fix whilst enjoying the sea breeze. Their cocktail menu is an invitation to sip on everything from quirky tropical delights, to your classic espresso martini.
The Furnace - Sheffield
Sheffield isn’t just known for its love of Yorkshire Tea and The Arctic Monkeys - it’s also a city home to fabulous rooftop bar, The Furnace. This place serves brunch galore, so you can enjoy your eggs benedict or full English whilst soaking up the summer sun. It’s also a fab spot to sip on daiquiris whilst having a juicy gossip with your pals. With performances from Drag Queens and live DJ sets, this bar really is the place to be. And if the British weather takes a turn for the worse? Then there’s open fires on hand to keep you toasty warm.