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If you’re on the hunt for rooftop bars that offer stunning views of Soho and Leicester Square, you’ve come to the right spot. Our experts at Thistle London Piccadilly have scoured the skyline to reveal the top spots for both leisure and business travellers. From vibrant terraces to relaxing hideaways, the bars featured here offer a taste of London’s nightlife paired with spectacular views. Here is a local’s guide to the must-visit rooftop bars in the area.
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Let’s be honest: London’s thrills are best served with altitude. When you pause above Leicester Square or drift above Soho’s neon and old brick, the city spreads out in layers – landmarks to the east, a theatre glow to the west, and streets bustling below. For visitors at Thistle London Piccadilly, you’re in arguably the perfect spot to sample these rooftop bars Soho is known for, all within a short walk. Rooftop venues around here aren’t just about cityscapes; they’re clever choices for post-work drinks, Friday celebrations, or a quiet moment to plan your weekend.
You’ll spot LSQ Rooftop towering above the buzz of Leicester Square, perched on the ninth floor of Hotel Indigo. What makes it a favourite is the panoramic view over London’s theatreland. The balcony offers a front row seat to the heartbeat of the West End, so you can sip your negroni and watch the swirl below.
Event tip: Ideal for business guests who want to impress a client without leaving central London. Table service is polished yet informal, and you can book private corners for meetings that run late. Tripadvisor reviews consistently mention the “great view of London and Leicester Square from the bar,” and the outdoor balcony is perfect for a photo with the skyline behind you.
Winter bonus: The indoor section means weather never ruins your plans, just swap terrace for plush sofas inside.
LSQ Rooftop is an essential stop for those staying at Thistle Piccadilly – it’s little more than five minutes from our front door.
Just next door, Miradora Rooftop is drawing attention for its vibrant Mexican-inspired décor, tequila-centred drinks menu, and, above all, the wide lens it gives over the West End. Located on the tenth floor, it’s slightly loftier than some nearby options, which means your sunset is just that little bit longer above the rooftops.
Dining detail: The all-weather indoor setting, wrapped in panoramic glass, makes Miradora a good pick year-round. There’s a pleasing sense of space, so you can unwind after a long sightseeing day or book in for a relaxed business lunch. Sipping a mezcal mule while the skyline glows is practically a London rite of passage.
Practical tip: Groups can reserve ahead, and there’s a strong reputation for attentive (but never stuffy) table service.
Nestled at The Londoner hotel, 8 at The Londoner brings a sleek, Japanese-inspired energy to the world of rooftop bars. The terrace here looks over the theatres and rooftops of central London, perfect for those after a sophisticated edge—think minimalist design with a hint of glamour.
Why go? Beyond the views, you’ll find a genuinely inventive cocktail list. It’s a favourite with business guests from London hotels seeking somewhere impressive but not overly showy. The bar handles solo guests and small groups equally well, and the staff are happy to recommend pairings if you can’t choose.
Local secret: Try to visit just before sunset, then linger as the lights of Piccadilly switch on below.
The edge of Soho is a prime perch, and The Rooftop at The Trafalgar St. James is an enduring institution for a reason. With commanding views straight across Trafalgar Square and a sweep of the West End skyline, it’s the sort of spot that manages to feel both relaxed and monumental.
For the business crowd: There’s plenty of space for team gatherings or client lunches. Modern European small plates encourage sharing, and the cocktail menu is aimed at those who know a smoky negroni from a gin spritz. This rooftop delivers above and beyond for London hotels seeking a destination bar.
Leisure suggestion: Book for a late lunch and settle in as the city moves from daylight to theatre-time lights.
Access tip: Despite its grandeur, it’s a five- to ten-minute stroll from Thistle London Piccadilly – ideal for escaping the main crowds but never venturing far.
A swift walk from Piccadilly places you at Aqua Kyoto and Aqua Spirit, perched above Oxford Circus and seconds away from the action of Soho and Regent Street. Their rooftop bars serve terrace views of the city – bright by day, glowing by night.
Why we recommend it: These rooftop bars are smartly located for visitors in hotels near Soho or anyone striking out from the office in the early evening. The terrace is open-air, which means you’ll need to judge your layers in spring and autumn, but the cityscape makes up for it.
Food and drink: Sushi with a side of city views, plus cocktails which nod to both Japanese and European tastes. It’s busy but not intimidating, a good spot for tourists wanting to ease into London nightlife or for a midweek pause.
When the venue tagline is “above the pulsating heart of the West End,” you know you’re in for an evocative atmosphere. 1 Leicester Square Rooftop (twinned with LSQ Rooftop) offers guests a throwback, Gatsby-inspired setting, where theatre posters line the walls and the balcony faces directly onto the famous square.
Local advantage: It’s one of the rare spots where you get a full sweep of theatreland – so if you’re staying at Thistle London Piccadilly or any hotels near Piccadilly, you’ve only a few steps to climb for one of the best views in London.
Who it’s for: Theatre lovers, first-time London explorers, and anyone wanting to toast their evening with a rooftop bar Soho locals would actually recommend. Outdoor tables are limited, so book early or pop up for a pre-dinner drink.
Staying at Thistle Piccadilly puts all these rooftop bars within easy reach – most under ten minutes’ walk. Here’s how to plan your outing like a true Londoner:
If you’re based in London, or back in town for work, don’t overlook these gems just because they’re central. Locals use these rooftops to break up the workweek, reconnect with friends, and soak up the city in a new way. And with London hotels around Piccadilly always welcoming, it pays to know where to recommend colleagues or clients for a post-meeting pause above the fray.
You’ll often find live DJ sets, themed cocktail weeks, and occasionally open-air film events. So don’t be afraid to scan venue sites for current listings.
As the local experts at Thistle London Piccadilly, we know that the right rooftop view can reshape your whole trip. Whether it’s a midday strategy session in the sun or an after-hours treat gazing at theatreland’s lights, these venues make the most of our electric location. We’re always on hand with parka jackets (yes, even in August), taxi advice, and real-time opening updates. Looking for something more bespoke, or want to organise a group outing? The concierge desk is your best friend. Give us your preferred view, and we’ll set up the rest.
Ready to lift your London experience? Book your stay at Thistle London Piccadilly and let our team guide you towards Soho’s rooftops and the city’s best-kept skyline secrets.
Absolutely. Every rooftop bar on our list welcomes solo guests and makes it easy to find a table at off-peak times. If you’re travelling alone, try LSQ Rooftop or Aqua Spirit for friendly service and quieter afternoon hours.
Yes, especially Thursday through Saturday. These spots are in high demand. Booking ahead ensures you get the view you’re after.
Most are open year-round. For winter visits, prioritise venues with indoor sections or covered terraces, such as Miradora Rooftop and 8 at The Londoner.
Smart casual is the standard. While most won’t turn you away for trainers, it’s wise to avoid sportswear or flip flops.
The closest ones (LSQ Rooftop, Miradora Rooftop, and 1 Leicester Square Rooftop) are a five-minute walk or less. The others, including Aqua Kyoto and The Rooftop at The Trafalgar St. James, are under fifteen minutes on foot.
For sunset views, 8 at The Londoner and The Rooftop at The Trafalgar St. James have prime west-facing terraces. Early evening reservations are key for the golden hour.
Yes, most featured venues offer private or semi-private spaces. Contact each directly for details or ask our team at Thistle London Piccadilly to make arrangements for you.
