Last month the city council announced a 12‑month pilot to extend public rooftop access. The result? A surge of private venues opening their terraces to the public after 6 pm. I spent a Friday night at the newly opened SkyDeck on King’s Road and found that the view of the skyline at sunset is worth the extra £12 cover.
How to Pick a Spot That Fits Your Mood
When you’re looking to unwind, the first thing to consider is the vibe. Do you want a quiet lounge, a lively dance floor, or a place that doubles as a gallery? Below are three categories with concrete examples and their typical crowd.
- Quiet – The Glasshouse on High Street offers a 30‑minute quiet hour each night, from 9 pm to 9:30 pm, with low‑volume jazz. Ideal for a post‑work chat.
- Mid‑night buzz – The Loft on Camden Road opens a DJ set at 10 pm. Expect a 70‑percent male crowd, mostly under 35, and a happy hour until 11 pm.
- Art & drinks – The Panorama on Southgate provides rotating exhibitions and a craft‑beer menu. Prices are 8 pounds for a pint, but the free entry on Wednesdays keeps the line short.
Top Three Rooftop Bars to Try This Weekend
Here are the three that made my shortlist after a week of sampling. Each offers a distinct experience and a solid value for money.
1. SkyDeck – King’s Road
Opening time: 6 pm. Cover: £12, free with a £50 spend. The bar serves a signature cocktail, the “Sunset Spritz,” for £9.50. The terrace is 200 m² and seats 80. I spent 45 minutes there, chatting with a colleague and watching the sunset over the river. The only downside: the Wi‑Fi drops around 8 pm, so you’ll need to leave your phone behind if you’re still in the office.
2. The Loft – Camden Road
Opening time: 8 pm. Cover: £10, waived if you order a drink. The DJ spins house tracks from 10 pm onwards. I danced until 1 am; the crowd was lively but not overcrowded. A small caveat: the bar runs a 3‑hour “no‑drinks‑in‑the‑bar” rule to keep the space safe, so you’ll have to step out for a refill after that point.
3. Panorama – Southgate
Opening time: 7 pm. Cover: free on Wednesdays, £8 otherwise. The craft‑beer selection includes a local IPA for £7. The terrace is 150 m² and hosts a monthly art show. I spent an hour there, enjoying the light art installation and a pint. The only limitation is the early closing time – 11 pm on weekends, which means you’ll need to finish early if you’re a late‑night person.
How to Get the Most Out of Your Night
Plan ahead. Call ahead to confirm the happy hour window, as some venues shift it seasonally. Bring a small wallet for the cover, but also keep a 10‑pound note handy for the bar. If you’re travelling by public transport, check the night bus schedule; many lines stop at the nearest station by 11 pm.
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Wrapping Up
Choosing the right rooftop or chill spot depends on your energy level and what you want to get out of the evening. If you need a quiet place to decompress, SkyDeck’s sunset hour is perfect. For a dance‑filled night, The Loft’s DJ nights are unbeatable. And if you want a blend of art and drinks, Panorama offers a unique setting. Book in advance, keep your wallet ready, and enjoy the city from above.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the new policy announced by the city council?
The council launched a 12‑month pilot allowing private rooftops to open to the public after 6 pm.
Where can I find the new rooftop venues?
SkyDeck on King’s Road is one of the first venues to open its terrace to the public.
How much does it cost to enter SkyDeck?
The cover charge is £12, which includes access to the terrace and the sunset view.
