​Summer is almost here! And, don’t judge us, at Aspire we’re familiar with a few of London’s greatest drinking spots – from Shoreditch to Soho, Primrose Hill to Peckham. And what could be better than a cold, crisp beer or chilled glass of wine with a view?

We’ve asked the team and here’s our rundown of five awesome rooftop bars in London.

  1. Proof

You won’t find a better all-year-round spot in all of East London, we promise. With log fires and blankets to keep you warm on the chillier nights, and flamingo croquet and juicy burgers from Le Bun to keep you full, you won’t want to leave this pretty paradise. Frozen mescal cocktails are a must try!

Location: London Fields

Open: All year round

  1. Coq d’Argent

Where else can you see a pretty much complete, panoramic view of the City while sipping a full price, full flavour Old Fashioned?

You won’t find anywhere quite like this in the whole City. And the food is delicious too…beef carpaccio, rock oysters, or - for something a little bit sweet – tiramisu with roast plums. The food is light, delicate and classy, and enjoyed with a crisp, fruity wine, good conversation and the 360-degrees rooftop views of London, life couldn’t be better.

Location: Mansion House

Open: All year round

  1. Frank’s Café

Peckham has really come into its own over the past few years, with cool bars like Ali Babar Bar and The Nines popping up to satisfy the area’s diverse, creative crowd. Frank’s Café is a must-see summertime addition to the area’s local watering holes. Sat atop a multi-story car park, you can sip your Campari-based cocktail and take in the full London skyline.

Once you’re done on the roof, head downstairs and into Bussey Building to continue the festivities long into the night.

Location: Peckham

Open: Summer only

  1. Ham Yard Hotel Roof Terrace

Forbidden fruit are often the most attractive, right? We think that’s certainly the case when it comes to Ham Yard Hotel’s roof terrace paradise right by Piccadili Circus. From the cute little kitchen garden and operational beehives, to the glorious sun terrace and chic cocktails, the Ham Yard Hotel roof terrace has it all – if you can get in.

Usually, the roof is reserved for guests at the hotel only. However, if you keep a close eye on ticketed events, you’ll be able to grab yourself a pass to one of the most exclusive roof top bars in town.

Location: Piccadilly Circus

Open: All year round

  1. Lyric

For some seriously summery evening drinking, head to Hammersmith’s Lyric rooftop terrace. Full of theatregoers and creative types, a refreshing pint or zesty cocktail here with your closest friends or potential clients is something to savour. With a bustling atmosphere and smart surroundings, this rooftop wonder would also be a great spot to take potential new clients.

Location: Hammersmith

Open: All year round