As the nights draw longer and the evenings warmer, there’s nothing more enticing than hearing the words ‘after work drink?’ leave your coworker’s mouth. The answer, more often than not, being yes absolutely. With so many places to go in London, the overwhelming choice often leads you to stick within your comfort zone to the local bar or pub. So why not try something new? A few stories up closer to the sun, perhaps?
Rooftop bars scream date night vibes: a romantic sunset overlooking some of London’s most celebrated architecture with bae? Yes, please! So whether you’re after a classy affair in central London, want to keep it casual in Peckham, or looking for an edgier vibe in Shoreditch, we have the right place just for you…
Frank’s Cafe, Peckham
The flagship architectural commission of Bold Tendencies in Peckham, Frank’s Cafe serves great views across London, which is perfectly complemented by a Negroni or two from the bar. Designed by Practice Architecture (Paloma Gormley & Lettice Drake), it was opened in 2009 by bartender Frank Boxer and chef Michael Davies. Be prepared for the pink stairwell en route to the top, and when we say pink we mean it: floor, ceiling, walls, the lot!
boldtendencies.com/franks-cafe/
The Culpeper, Shoreditch
Still a firm favourite for after work drinks, The Culpeper on Commercial Street has restored its rooftop this summer to its modest, rustic aesthetic, and thus quickly soaring to the top of our lists for date night destinations. What’s more, they are having a strong focus on something they hold close to their hearts this summer: wine! More specifically, English wine. Don’t feel bad for how much you drink, the cork is put to good use once no longer needed, including grinding them down to sprinkle on the surrounding plants to help them retain water.
theculpeper.com/rooftop/
Madison, St Pauls
The perfect meet-up point for coworkers and dates alike, the Manhattan-style bar Madison is a rooftop bar everyone must visit at least once, if not only for its unrivalled close-up view of St Paul’s Cathedral’s iconic dome. Live music and DJ sets run from Wednesday to Sunday during the summer, while food draws influence from summer barbecues, serving up chargrilled seasonal dishes.
madisonlondon.net/
12th Knot, Southbank
12th Knot is situated at the rooftop of South Bank’s Sea Containers - a true reflection of South Bank’s vibrant energy; expect bright, striking décor and an open-plan layout which puts the panoramic views centre stage. Stick around for sunset, when the room gets more blingy and the sun sets beautifully across Blackfriars and St Pauls. Remember to leave the sneakers at home for this one, the dress code is smart casual here.
seacontainerslondon.com/eat-drink/12th-knot/
A great bar calls for a great frock!
SHOP OUR DATE NIGHT EDIT
