By Donna Richardson
Sun-drenched weekends in the UK bring to mind rooftop bars to drink in views and cool vibes, so DLUXE has put together a guide to some of the best bird’s-eye views across the country. We have looked across the land to bring you top recommendations for experiencing the best of any city or location, whether it’s watching the action at the British Grand Prix and related events, or enjoying views over London, Birmingham, Liverpool, Manchester, Edinburgh, Brighton or Bristol. Let’s turn up the tempo on some of the hottest collections of rooftop spots in the UK.
Hotel du Vin, Clifton, Bristol
Hotel du Vin Clifton Bristol is majestically perched over the Avon Gorge, overlooking the Clifton Suspension Bridge, one of the most incredible displays of Isambard Kingdom Brunel’s masterpiece, which was completed in 1864. Set in an 18th-century sugar warehouse, a Grade II listed building, Victorians once flocked here for wellness when it housed the Grand Clifton Spa and Hydropathic Institution. The mineral-rich waters from the hot springs beneath the bridge offered an elixir of youthful treatments with health benefits. They accessed it via a steam-powered funicular railway. The rooftop terrace offers a stunning view of the surrounding natural beauty. The restaurant, called Goram, is inspired by a local myth about two giants who once played here. You can view their playground through the floor-to-ceiling glass windows as you sink into the plush leather sofas and enjoy a prime steak fit for a giant, prepared on grills and smokers. They also have a splendid afternoon tea.
Oh Me, Oh My in Liverpool
The name is very fitting as all visitors exclaim “Oh Me, Oh My,” as they enter the former bank. It is a beautiful place to watch the world go by. Head up to the eighth floor of West Africa House to the Goodness Gracious roof garden and enjoy the best views of Liverpool. Here in the heart of the city centre, it is opposite the iconic Three Graces. It was built in the 1920s by Briggs, Wolstenholme, and Thornley and was once home to the Bank of West Africa. A place to enjoy Afternoon Tea, it offers a stunning view across the Mersey towards the Liver Birds, savoured in an iconic location. It is one of the best places to visit in Liverpool.
20 Stories Manchester
Offering a 360-degree panorama of Manchester’s impressive skyline, 20 Stories is an excellent place to enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the city. Drink in the views over Spinningfields as you enjoy a cocktail on the rooftop terrace and sink into the comfy lounge furniture. The rooftop is open all year round with fireplaces and igloos to keep you warm in the winter. You’ll be surrounded by trees too in this urban oasis, which serves contemporary British cuisine sourced locally. modern British cuisine, to source ingredients no more than 50 miles from outside Manchester. This chic location is an excellent place for barflies and foodies, and is a must-visit location if you find yourself in the city.
The 12th Knot, Sea Containers, London
12th Knot is a vibrant rooftop bar & terrace at the top of the iconic Sea Containers London. Stylish seating, current tunes, and a curated collection of wine, champagne and cocktails, plus small plates that celebrate seasonal ingredients – all set against an unrivalled backdrop of the River Thames and the City of London. A true reflection of South Bank’s energy, expect bright, striking décor and an open-plan layout that puts London’s breathtaking skyline at centre stage.
Silverstone at Escapade, the home of F1
As the sun shines and temperatures soar, enjoy the heatwave and summer months beyond at the most unique rooftop in the country. With its panoramic views overlooking the world-famous Silverstone Circuit, The Roof Deck at Escapade Silverstone offers an unforgettable setting to soak up the sun, unwind and truly immerse yourself in the heart of motorsport. Redefining summer rooftops as we know them, The Roof Deck at Escapade Silverstone is the perfect setting to relax or entertain with its effortless, contemporary style and ultimate comfort in mind. Enjoy a sundowner as you soak up the views of the nine corners of the Silverstone Circuit. Guests are placed right in the centre of a living, breathing racetrack, offering an immersive experience like no other. On race days, The Roof Deck offers an exhilarating environment to enjoy the electrifying atmosphere, as guests are lucky enough to have exclusive, front-row access to the action. The roar of the engines and proximity to the nail-biting racing make the Roof Deck an unmatched vantage point for motorsport fans – blending both adrenaline and elegance in a truly special fusion. This is the perfect place to enjoy the racing and with the Silverstone festival coming up in the 75th anniversary of Silverstone, it is a great place to hang out. This premium summer hotspot with a truly special edge has recently revealed a prestigious partnership with Moët & Chandon Champagne. This reflects Escapade Silverstone’s ongoing commitment to delivering a world-class experience for guests, offering Moët & Chandon’s iconic Champagne and creating unforgettable moments for visitors.
Orelle, Birmingham
Dine in the clouds at The Restaurant at Orelle, beautifully embodying the charm of the city’s historic Jewellery Quarter and its rich banking heritage. Perched on the 24th floor of 103 Colmore Row, this elegant venue offers breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views that create a truly unforgettable dining experience. Open for both lunch and dinner, Orelle presents a carefully crafted menu that showcases the finest classic and contemporary French cuisine. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking an extraordinary meal, Orelle invites you to indulge in culinary excellence amidst stunning surroundings.
Chaoohraya, Edinburgh, Scotland
Nestled high above the historic Edinburgh Castle, Chaophraya is a charming, family-owned rooftop bar that presents a culinary escape into the vibrant world of authentic Thai cuisine. Guests can indulge in an array of delectable dishes, from fragrant noodles and colourful stir-fries to exquisitely grilled Thai sea bass, all while sipping on a refreshing drink and soaking in stunning views of the serene Firth of Forth. In addition to its remarkable dining experience, Chaophraya invites guests to embark on an immersive culinary adventure through its cooking school. Here, aspiring chefs can learn the art of Thai street food by preparing two beloved classics: the aromatic Tom Yum Thai Soup and the iconic Pad Thai. For those seeking a touch of royal elegance, the venue also offers private dining experiences, where participants can master the preparation of two sumptuous royal Thai dishes: delicately crafted Steamed Dumplings and rich, flavorful Massaman Curry.
The Botanist, Newcastle
Experience the allure of The Botanist at Way, an enchanting rooftop sanctuary that beckons to those who appreciate vintage-inspired interiors and innovative cocktails. As you enter, you’ll be greeted by a stunning domed glass ceiling that allows natural light to flood the space, creating a warm and inviting ambience. For those who prefer the fresh air, the spacious terrace offers an idyllic setting to unwind while enjoying panoramic views of the city skyline. Indulge in a carefully crafted selection of quirky cocktails, with the bartender’s recommendation being the extraordinary Plant Pot cocktail. This delightful concoction features a rich blend of smooth bourbon, sweet amaretto, vibrant kiwi puree, and a hint of honey, all served in a charming presentation that is almost as exciting as the flavours themselves. Join us at The Botanist for an unforgettable evening of creative cocktails and captivating surroundings.
Hotel Saint, Aldgate, London
For stunning rooftop views that showcase the blend of old and new across the city, visit Jin Bo Law Hotel’s skyline bar at The Hotel Saint in London. Situated in the financial district but bordering the East End, Hotel Saint offers a perfect mix of both areas. It’s just moments from The Tower of London and close to Shoreditch and The East End. The hotel is conveniently located beside Aldgate Station, making it easy to explore via the tube, and the Elizabeth Line extends to Berkshire, allowing you to enjoy both city and countryside. On the ground floor, the Cardinal Bar and Kitchen provides a warm, inviting atmosphere, alongside the Stella Artois bar and terrace, where you can sip cocktails like the Grand Slam and The Ace—classic twists with tequila—or enjoy a cold Stella Artois, Beckham’s preferred beer. Tuck into snacks such as nduja sausage rolls with black garlic mayo, zesty fish tacos, Korean wings, or share a board while DJs spin live music on the terrace on Wednesdays and Thursdays from 2pm to 6pm, creating a lively summer street-party vibe. Later, ascend to Jin Bo Law’s main bar, which becomes lively in the evenings.
BAEi360 Brighton
The space-age British Airways i360 provides some of the best views of Brighton from a vertical pier on the former historic West Pier. This £46 million project, undertaken by the same team that constructed the London Eye, offers incredible views of the seaside town. The space age pod has an 18 ft giant pod/viewing platform like a bubble wrapped around it and it rises to 450ft for the best views as a glass of Nyetimber sparkling wine to toast the occasion and it takes minutes to reach the top. You can see out to the Isle of Wight on a clear day, as well as enjoy a birds-eye view of this stunning city for miles along the beach beyond the Palace Pier, and inland, you can gaze beyond Brighton to the Sussex hills. You can also climb atop the pod and enjoy the wind rippling through your hair as you take in the view, or abseil down.
Donna Richardson is a luxury journalist who writes about food, drink and travel.
