Cheap Rooftop Drinks in London – Budget Nightlife Guide

Looking for a place to sip a drink while taking in the city skyline without emptying your wallet? London has a surprising number of rooftop spots that charge less than a pint at a regular pub. Below you’ll get a quick rundown of the most affordable rooftops, how to time your visit, and a few hacks to stretch your cash further.

Top Cheap Rooftop Spots

1. The Rooftop at The Strata – Located in Elephant and Castle, this bar offers a happy‑hour menu from 5 pm to 7 pm. You can grab a pint for around £4.50 and still enjoy a 360‑degree view of the city.

2. Sky Garden Bar – While the general admission to the garden is free, the bar inside runs a daily “sunset special” where a glass of wine or a cocktail is just £5 after 6 pm. Arrive early to grab a seat on the lawn.

3. The Madison – Overlooking St. Paul’s, this spot offers a ‘budget rooftop’ night on Tuesdays. A draft beer costs £4 and you get a free small plate of nachos.

4. Queen of Hoxton – In Shoreditch, their rooftop turns into a ‘budget lounge’ on Thursday evenings. Pitchers start at £12, which splits nicely for a small group.

5. Bubbly Terrace – In Camden, they run a ‘pay‑what‑you‑want’ brunch on Saturdays. You can grab a mimosa and still stay under £5.

How to Score the Best Deals

Timing is everything. Most rooftops cut prices during happy hour, usually between 5 pm and 8 pm on weekdays. If you can be flexible, plan your visit around these windows and you’ll save a lot.

Join the venue’s mailing list or follow them on social media. Bars love to announce flash discounts, free‑entry nights, or “first‑drink‑on‑the‑house” promos. A quick tap on your phone can net you a free cocktail or a discounted entry.

Share a table. Most rooftop bars price drinks per person, but some have group offers like “2 for £10”. Even if you’re solo, pairing up with a friend can halve the cost.

Consider off‑peak days. Sundays and Mondays are generally slower, so bars often lower prices to fill seats. You’ll get the same view with fewer crowds and a lighter bill.

Finally, bring your own snack. Some rooftops allow you to bring light food, especially during happy hour. A bag of chips or a small sandwich can keep you from ordering pricey bar bites.

With these spots and tips, you can enjoy London’s rooftop scene without blowing your budget. Grab a friend, pick a cheap rooftop, and toast to the city lights – all for the price of a couple of beers.