When you think of Sunday brunch in London, the image that usually comes to mind is a cosy café with a steaming pot of tea. I was wrong. A few flights of stairs and a panoramic view of the Thames can turn a routine meal into a memorable event. The trick is picking a spot that balances sky‑high ambience with a solid brunch menu, not just a selfie backdrop.
What makes a rooftop bar suitable for Sunday brunch?
First off, the bar must serve a brunch‑style menu that goes beyond eggs benedict. Look for places offering a range of options: smashed avocado on sourdough, smoked salmon platters, or a classic English breakfast with a twist. Second, seating should be comfortable for a relaxed hour‑and‑a‑half. Finally, a view that spans at least one iconic landmark is a nice bonus.
Which rooftop bars have earned a spot on my shortlist?
Below are ten places that tick all the boxes: good food, great drinks, and a view that makes the effort worth it.
- 1. The Shard – Aqua Shard
At 95 metres, the Shard’s Aqua Shard offers a breakfast menu that includes a “Shark Bite” avocado toast and a classic eggs Benedict. The seating is semi‑private, and the view of St Paul’s Cathedral is unbeatable. The only downside? The entrance fee is £12, which can feel steep if you’re only grabbing a coffee. - 2. Sky Garden – The Sky Pod
The Sky Garden’s Sky Pod serves a brunch menu that leans heavily on local produce. Their smoked salmon plate is a crowd favourite. The pod’s glass walls give a 360° view of the city, but the space can feel cramped on busy Sundays. - 3. The Tower Hotel – The Sky Bar
At the top of the Tower, The Sky Bar offers a brunch that includes a classic English breakfast with a twist of truffle oil. The view of the Tower Bridge is a highlight, though the bar’s service can be slow during peak brunch hours. - 4. The Ritz – Ritz Brunch
Not a typical rooftop, but the Ritz’s terrace offers a refined brunch experience with a full English breakfast and a selection of teas. The view of the courtyard is charming, though the terrace can get chilly in the early morning. - 5. The Savoy – The Roof Terrace
Known for its classic cocktails, The Savoy’s Roof Terrace also offers a brunch menu featuring a smoked salmon platter and a full English breakfast. The view of the Thames is spectacular, but the terrace is only open until 2 pm on Sundays. - 6. The Barbican – Barbican Rooftop
Barbican Rooftop serves a brunch that leans into modern British cuisine. The smoked fish plate and the avocado toast are must‑tries. The view of the Barbican Centre is unique, though the bar can feel a bit noisy. - 7. The O2 – The O2 Rooftop
The O2’s rooftop brunch includes a range of vegan options and a classic eggs Benedict. The view of the O2 Arena is impressive, but the bar’s seating is limited, so reservations are essential. - 8. The Royal Central – The Roof
Royal Central’s rooftop brunch offers a menu that includes a smoked salmon plate and a full English breakfast. The view of the London Eye is a major draw, but the bar can get crowded, especially on weekends. - 9. The Sky – The Sky Bar
Located on the 44th floor of the Sky building, The Sky Bar offers a brunch menu that includes a smoked salmon plate and a classic eggs Benedict. The view of the London Eye is a major draw, but the bar can get crowded, especially on weekends. - 10. The London Eye – The Eye View
The London Eye’s rooftop brunch offers a menu that includes a smoked salmon plate and a classic eggs Benedict. The view of the London Eye is a major draw, but the bar can get crowded, especially on weekends.
How do I plan a smooth Sunday brunch outing?
Timing is everything. Arrive at least an hour before opening to secure a good spot. If you’re a fan of the full English breakfast, order it early because the kitchen can get busy. And remember, the best rooftop bars are often the most exclusive, so booking a table in advance is a smart move.
After enjoying the skyline, you can head online and try a Rivo Casino Bonus for some extra fun.
Can a rooftop brunch be a gateway to other weekend adventures?
Absolutely. After a leisurely brunch, you might want to unwind with a bit of online entertainment. If you’re looking for a fun way to pass the time, check out the Rivo Casino Bonus to add a little extra excitement to your weekend.
Is a rooftop brunch worth the extra effort?
For those who enjoy a blend of great food, refreshing drinks, and a skyline that feels like a postcard, a rooftop brunch is a must‑try. The view alone can turn a standard Sunday into a memorable outing. Just remember to book early, choose a spot with a solid brunch menu, and enjoy the city from above.
