By Danielle Tucker, Belvoir Media.

London is arguably one of the most scenic cities on Earth. With some incredible architecture, an iconic skyline and historic canals, not to mention the famous River Thames – with so many restaurants around the city offering great views, enjoying some delicious food isn’t the only reason to get a little dressed up and head out for a nice meal in London!
It should be noted that although a great view usually comes with a great price tag, a fair few of the restaurants featured in this article are affordable for the average Londoner, because a lovely meal with a beautiful view shouldn’t have to break the bank!
If having an amazing backdrop to match what’s on your plate sounds like an ideal setting for you, check out the list below for the best restaurants in London with a view.
Page Contents
Central London
You might be mistaken for thinking that all the restaurants in London with the best views are at the tops of skyscrapers. And while two of the establishments on this list do happen to be in the Shard, the good news for those with an aversion to heights, is that many more are actually at (or very near) ground level.
1. The Cross London, King's Cross
- 2-4 Wharfdale Road, N1 9RY
- 020 3839 7320
- Website
- Tue-Sat 6pm-11pm, later for drinks and dancing
2. Seabird, Southwark
Boasting London’s biggest menu of oysters, Seabird features an array of sea-to-table offerings with Spanish and Portuguese influences.
With an obvious focus on seafood, specifically oysters, this restaurant is definitely the place to be if you’re a fan of the famous aphrodisiac – they even have an oyster happy hour and an in-house oyster professional! With the added bonus of views of the surrounding city, this place is not to be missed (unless you don’t like oysters, in which case, keep scrolling).
- The Hoxton Southwark, 40 Blackfriars Road, SE1 8NY
- 020 7903 3050
- Website
- Mon-Tue 3pm-12am, Wed-Thu 12pm-12am, Fri-Sat 12pm-1am, Sun 11am-12am
3. Forza Wine, Peckham
With views across the city, Forza Wine sits atop the bustle of Peckham, serving Italian inspired bites and affordable-for-London cocktails that shouldn’t be missed.
A spin-off of its older sibling Forza Win, this restaurant leans into the bar scene with more of a focus on the drinks, but with food-menu items including flatbread, and pork chops, as well as an option to order the whole menu for a mere £140, the food definitely deserves some credit!
- The Rooftop, 133A Rye Ln, London SE15 4BQ
- 020 7732 7500
- Website
- Everyday 12pm-10:30pm, later for drinks
4. Decimo at the Standard, King's Cross
It’s fair to say that a restaurant sitting at the top of a 5-star hotel, likely isn’t affordable for the average Londoner.
But splashing the pennies on this place is arguably worth it when you combine the eclectic retro decor, with the Spanish meets Mexican inspired food from the kitchen of Michelin star chef, Peter Sanchez-Iglesias, and the views of the skyline, with a close up of King’s Cross and St Pancras. If that wasn’t enough to draw you in, you get to enter the restaurant via an exterior lift, so you’ll enjoy the incredible views before you even sit down! The lift alone firmly places this restaurant as one of the best restaurants in London with a view.
- 10th Floor, The Standard, 10 Argyle St, WC1H 8EG
- 020 3981 8888
- Website
- Tue-Wed 5pm-12am, Thu 12pm-2:30pm & 5pm-1am, Fri-Sat 12pm-2:30pm & 5pm-2am
5. Duck & Waffle, Financial District
Alright so this one is in a skyscraper, although it isn’t the Shard. On the 40th floor of the Heron Building you’ll find a playful take on comfort food. The menu is built around the restaurant’s namesake dish: crispy duck-leg confit with fluffy waffles and mustard maple syrup.
Mouth watering yet? The menu also includes a Sunday roast, and the restaurant is open 24 hours a day over the weekend, so you could enjoy the views over the iconic gherkin building during sunset and sunrise!
- 110 Bishopsgate, EC2N 4AY
- 020 3640 7310
- Website
- Tue-Thu 7am-1:30am, Fri-Mon 24 hours

6. Fenchurch, Sky Garden
Offering a contemporary British menu with an award-winning wine list, Fenchurch at the Sky Garden in the Walking Talkie building maintains the Sky Garden’s nature-vibes, but with added sophistication.
As expected this is reflected in the pricing, with the average two course meal costing just shy of £65, before sides and drinks. However, for one of the fanciest restaurants in town, with perhaps the most iconic view in London, who can argue?
And if you’re looking for a deal on some of the best restaurants in London? Check out Living Social for food and drinks deal in London.
- Sky Garden, Walk, 1 Philpot Ln, EC3M 8AF
- 0333 772 0020
- Website
- Mon 10am-12am, Tue-Thu 8am-12am, Fri-Sat 8am-1am, Sun 8am-12am (Last entry each evening is 11pm, except Friday and Saturday when it’s 12am)
7. Sky Pod, Sky Garden
If the incredible views from the Sky Garden still sound appealing to you, but Fenchurch seems a little too fancy, there’s always the option to grab drinks at the Sky Pod bar.
Although technically not a restaurant, the extensive bar food menu features steak and ale pie, two different kinds of curry, baked camembert, vegetarian mezze and much more. Admittedly the cocktails aren’t cheap, but the view more than makes up for it.
- Sky Garden, Walk, 1 Philpot Ln, EC3M 8AF
- 0333 772 0020
- Website
- Mon 10am-12am, Tue-Thu 8am-12am, Fri-Sat 8am-1am, Sun 8am-12am (Last entry each evening is 11pm, except Friday and Saturday when it’s 12am)
8. Aqua Shard, The Shard
Part of a worldwide restaurant group with venues in Hong Kong, Beijing, Dubai and the USA, Aqua Shard is another luxury restaurant with views over the entire city. The building is iconic, which is why Aqua Shard had to make this list of the best restaurants with a view in London.
Being in the Shard, it’s inevitably on the expensive side, however the menu features weekend brunch as well as a Peter Pan Themed Afternoon Tea which includes a fairy dust cocktail! The kitchen is also proud to serve food made of great quality British ingredients, including butter from Glastonbury, and Neal’s Yard cheese. Dinner here after watching the sunset is the ultimate fancy evening in London.
And if you’d just like to see The View From The Shard? Get your tickets here, with tickets from £28.
- Level 31, The Shard, 31 St Thomas Street, SE1 9RY
- 0203 0111 256
- Website
- Everyday 12pm-12am
9. Marsha, Gabriel's Wharf
If heights aren’t your thing but you still enjoy a lovely view while you dine, Marsha on South Bank is the place for you. They boast an affordable and minimal-waste menu, with a special focus on chicken which is carefully sourced from a specific sustainable farm in Yorkshire.
The upstairs terrace offers 180-degree views across the Thames in a warmly lit covered area. As well as a kids menu which offers more than the typical sausage and chips, there’s a bottomless brunch menu available on weekends with the option of bottomless beer, prosecco, mimosa, or brunch cocktail. It’s hard to find fault with this place.
- Gabriel’s Wharf, 56 Upper Ground, Bishop’s, SE1 9PP
- 020 3034 0791
- Website
- Mon closed, Tue-Fri 12pm-11pm, Sat 11am-11pm, Sun 11am-7pm
10. Boundary Rooftop, Shoreditch
Offering a stunning view over the City and East London whatever the weather, the Rooftop restaurant of the Boundary Hotel is the perfect destination for lunch, dinner and cocktails.
The menu is surprisingly affordable for the rooftop restaurant of a 4-star hotel, with the mains costing an average of £24. The food also seems to be a mix of cultures with cheese fondue, lamb koftas and arancini all featuring – you could say there’s something for everyone!
- Boundary Hotel, 2-4 Boundary St, E2 7DD
- 020 7729 1051
- Website
- Everyday 12pm-11pm

11. The Library, County Hall
In the perfect location for a touristy-day-out, and boasting magnificent views over the Thames and the Houses of Parliament, The Library is just what it says it is, a library. Nestled amongst towering shelves of books, you can enjoy a traditional British afternoon tea, with a traditional British view.
The pastries are inspired by the surrounding landmarks, with a Big Ben shaped shortbread a notable favourite. And although Afternoon Tea is your only option here, there is a choice of traditional or vegan.
- London County Hall, Westminster Bridge Road, SE1 7PB
- 020 7902 5535
- Website
- Everyday 12pm-5pm
12. All Bar One, Butler's Wharf
If the views of nearby Tower Bridge from the wooden clad rooftop terrace weren’t enough, All Bar One offers a Tapas Tuesday deal, with a bottle of wine or two cocktails, plus four small plates for just £29.95.
There’s also a bottomless brunch deal and a cocktail making masterclass available too. The main menu has a decent variety with some comfort food and some healthy choices too, and a mix of cuisines to suit all tastes.
- 34 Shad Thames, Butlers Wharf, SE1 2YG
- 020 7940 9771
- Website
- Tue-Sat 10am-11pm, Sun 10am-10pm
13. City Social, City of London
This restaurant impressively won a Michelin star within 6 months of opening in 2014! Head chef James Atherton is world-renowned for his expertise and accolades, and dining at City Social, it’s easy to see why.
Notable menu items are line-caught sea bass and Highland venison saddle, with an additional vegetarian menu. As well as some delectable food which showcases the best of British produce, the cocktail menu has drinks inspired by the various landmarks visible from the restaurant, including the Shard.
- Tower 42, 25 Old Broad Street, EC2N 1HQ
- 020 7877 7703
- Website
- Mon-Thu 12pm-2:30pm & 6pm-9pm, Fri 12pm-2:30pm & 6pm-9:30pm, Sat 5pm-9:30pm
14. Swan, The Globe
Strategically located right next to the Globe, and a short walk from the Tate Modern and Borough Market, Swan has a rooftop beer garden; the perfect place to enjoy views of the Thames and St Paul’s Cathedral before or after taking in a show at Shakespeare’s theatre. The restaurant is light and airy, serving only British produce, and the Shakespeare inspired afternoon tea features a signature Love Potion cocktail.
- 21 New Globe Walk, Bankside SE1 9DT
- 020 7928 9444
- Website
- Mon-Sat 12pm-2:45pm & 5pm-8:45pm, Sun 11:30am-5pm
15. Galvin at Windows, Mayfair
Offering panoramic views of London, including Hyde Park and skyscrapers in the background, the view from this Michelin-star restaurant is next level, giving Central Park West vibes.
The cuisine is modern and seasonally inspired, with a focus on British produce. While Michelin stars and Hilton hotels obviously come with hefty price tags, for a high end restaurant with one of the most impressive views, it’s worth it for a one off special occasion.
- Hilton Hotel, 22 Park Lane, W1K 1BE
- 020 7208 4021
- Website
- Mon-Sat 12pm-2:15pm & 6pm-9:30pm, Sun 12pm-2:45pm & 7-9:30pm
16. Riverside Cafe, Lambeth
If expensive and fancy isn’t your thing, head to Riverside Cafe on Lambeth Pier. Offering views toward Westminster and the London Eye while serving typical British comfort food at affordable prices, and with a friendly attitude, what more could you want?
We couldn’t not include a thrifty option on this list of best restaurants in London with a view. Menu items include fish and chips, fry ups and burgers, and they won’t break the bank!
- Lambeth Pier, Albert Embankment, SE1 7SG
- 020 7401 7575
- Website
- Everyday 9am-6pm
17. High Timber, City of London
South African run High Timber preaches a synergy between soul and soul, particularly with respect to their wine menu. Views from the restaurant are of bustling Central London, and inside you’ll find South African artwork to be a feature.
Although the menu is only really geared toward meat-eaters, you will find three different kinds of steak on the menu, with a multitude of sizes and sauces.
- Broken Wharf House, 8 High Timber St, EC4V 3PA
- 020 7248 1777
- Website
- Mon-Fri 12pm-2:30pm & 6pm-9:30pm, Sat-Sun closed

18. Smith’s, Wapping
Smith’s motto is ‘Famous for Fish’, and their menu certainly lives up to it. All of their seafood comes from sustainable sources and they work closely with fishing communities to ensure the best possible quality available, making the effort for fish to be caught and delivered daily so it’s fresh.
If the great fish wasn’t enough to draw you in, the backdrop to your meal is the famous and iconic Tower Bridge.
And if you’re a fan of a fish supper? Be sure to check out our guide to the best fish and chips in London.
- 22 Wapping High St, E1W 1NJ
- 020 7488 3456
- Website
- Everyday 12pm-2:30pm & 6pm-9pm
19. Min Jiang, Kensington
The first Asian restaurant to feature on this list, Min Jiang sits on the 10th floor of the Royal Garden Hotel, with views over Kensington Gardens and Hyde Park. The menu offers all of the Chinese restaurant classics, but in a more elegant setting – although they do have a takeaway option as well!
- 2, 24 Kensington High Street, W8 4PT
- 020 7361 1988
- Website
- Everyday 12pm-3pm & 6pm-10:30pm
20. London Shell Co. Aboard The Prince Regent, Paddington
For something a little different, hop aboard The Prince Regent canal boat for dinner in style as you cruise the canals of Central and North London on a two and a half hour journey.
Menu options include the finest British seafood, with choices changing along with the seasons. This is truly a unique dining experience and with set menus offering 5 courses for £75, the prices aren’t too bad considering.
- Union Canal, Sheldon Square, W2 6EP
- 075 5303 3636
- Website
- Mon closed, Tue-Fri 12pm-9:30pm, Sun closed
21. Portrait Restaurant, National Portrait Gallery
If enjoying the incredible artwork at the National Portrait Gallery isn’t enough for you, you can head to the rooftop restaurant to take in views over Central London as well. Meals are available all day, from breakfast to dinner, as well as afternoon tea.
The kitchen supports local London producers where possible, with everything else coming from further afield in the UK. There is a multitude of options on the menu and prices are quite reasonable considering the location.
- St. Martin's Pl, WC2H 0HE
- 020 7306 0055
- Website
- Mon-Thurs 10:30-18:00, Fri-Sat, 10:30-21:00
22. Caffe Tropea, Fitzrovia
Sitting in the middle of Russel Square, not far from the British Museum, Caffe Tropea serves delectable Italian cuisine, with that heartwarming ‘mama’s cooking’ vibe.
If the family atmosphere wasn’t enough, the food is incredible, and the setting of the peaceful gardens in a busy part of the city tops it off. This place is a hidden gem!
- Russell Square, WC1B 5EH
- 020 7637 5093
- Website
- Mon-Fri 7am-6pm, Sat-Sun 8am-5pm
23. Kilikyas Gastro, Cocktails & Lounge, St. Katherine’s
Not far from the Tower of London, Kilikyas Gastro sits in a rustic yet modern building in St Katharine’s Dockside marina, so on a warm sunny day, you may feel like you’re on the riviera somewhere.
The menu celebrates Turkish cuisine, with both hot and cold mezzes on offer, as well as seafood, tapas, and homemade burgers.
- Unit C4, Ivory House, St.Katharine Docks, E1W 1AT
- 020 7488 1486
- Website
- Everyday 12pm-11pm

24. Ting, The Shard
Back up in the city’s most famous skyscraper, Ting offers a dynamic dining experience inspired by Asian cultures made with only the best seasonal ingredients. Here you can enjoy breakfast, lunch, dinner or afternoon tea. Sitting on the 35th floor of the Shard, it’s obvious that the views are out of this world.
And if you’d just like to see The View From The Shard? Get your tickets here, with tickets from £28.
- 32 London Bridge St, SE1 9SG
- 020 7234 8108
- Website
- Everyday 7am-10:15pm
25. GWR Pullman Dining, Paddington
Another amazing and unique dining experience, this restaurant is actually on a steam train, the Great Western Railway’s Pullman. The menu features fillet steak and paired wines, and with destinations all over the country to choose from, you could enjoy a different view every time you dine!
- Paddington Railway Station, Praed St, W2 1HU
- 034 5711 4141
- Website
- Times and services vary
26. Wagtail Rooftop Bar & Restaurant, City of London
Split over two floors, Wagtail includes two private terraces as well as a heated and covered rooftop terrace bar which boasts 360 degree views of all of the city’s most iconic skyscrapers.
The terrace also offers diners private igloos throughout the winter months, where the fancy food at fancy prices can be enjoyed in style. There’s also a separate weekend brunch menu for when you’re feeling fancy on the weekends!
- 68 King William St, EC4N 7HR
- 020 8161 4442
- Website
- Mon-Tue 11am-12am, Wed-Sat 11am-1:30am, Sun 11am-11pm
27. Aviary, Finsbury Square
Another amazing restaurant with impressive views of Central London is Aviary. The perfect palace to sip cocktails or enjoy a meal on a special occasion, this restaurant also has winter igloos outdoors for that seasonal cosy feel, where friends can gather to enjoy a fondue. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, Aviary has a modern and trendy feel.
- 10th Floor Montcalm, 22-25 Finsbury Square, EC2A 1DX
- 020 3873 4060
- Website
- Everyday 6:30am-10am & 11am-12am
28. Vintry & Mercer, Barbican
Vintry & Mercer’s large rooftop terrace, with indoor and outdoor options, has views spanning from the Shard to St Paul’s, and if the two previous options with winter igloos weren’t to your liking, this establishment offers them too, as well as cabins for the ultimate cosy feeling.
The menu is reasonably priced considering what’s on offer, and the mains are quaintly divvied up into Land, Sea and Earth, depending upon your preferences.
- 19-20 Garlick Hill, EC4V 2AU
- 020 3908 8088
- Website
- Mon-Fri 12pm-4:30pm & 5:30pm-9:30pm, Sat-Sun 12pm-9:30pm
29. VICINITY, The Tower Hotel
Tower Bridge is so close to this restaurant that from inside it looks like they’re one and the same! VICINITY has it all, a stone pizza oven, afternoon tea, a bar, and a children’s menu, as well as a perfectly curated wine and spirit menu. And with such an iconic view of London, what more could you want?
- St Katharine's Way, E1W 1LD
- 020 7523 5063
- Website
- Everyday 12pm-10pm
30. Doggett’s Coat and Badge, Southbank
Named for an 18th century London sporting organiser, this pub restaurant has an interesting history, not to mention its rooftop views over the city and the river. With traditional pub food and live sports on offer and a great view to soak in, it’s hard to go wrong here.
- 1 Blackfriars Bridge, SE1 9UD
- 020 7633 9081
- Website
- Mon-Wed 10am-11pm, Thu-Sat 10am-12am, Sun 10am-11pm
31. Gaucho, Tower Bridge
Another amazing restaurant with close up views of the iconic Tower Bridge, Gaucho specialises in steak, showcasing Argentinian beef alongside Latin American cuisine. If that’s not enough, the dessert menu features tray-baked cookie dough and three amazing bespoke dessert cocktails.
- 2 More London Pl, SE1 2AP
- 020 7407 5222
- Website
- Mon-Fri 12pm-11pm, Sat 11am-11:30pm, Sun 12pm-11pm

32. Searcy’s, The Gherkin
What if instead of having the iconic Gherkin building in your restaurant view, you were inside the Gherkin looking out? Perched high above the city, at Searcy’s you can enjoy some of the best seasonal produce in town, with a great view to match. As well as afternoon tea being an option, you can also learn while you dine with the Champagne Masterclass Dinner.
- 30 St Mary Axe, EC3A 8BF
- 020 7071 5029
- Website
- Open 24/7
North London
33. Beit el Zaytoun, Park Royal
Taking a break from the Thames, this Lebanese restaurant overlooks the River Brent. The breakfast is particularly good and the interior has a cosy countryside vibe. Beit El Zaytoun, meaning House of Olives, celebrates Lebanese cuisine and represents true Mediterranean culture; community driven, raw ingredients and authentic food around a table with family and friends.
- 15-17 Barretts Green Rd, NW10 7AE
- 020 8961 1166
- Website
- Everyday 10:30-23:30
34. Rotunda Bar & Restaurant, York Way
A stone’s throw from King’s Cross Station with amazing views of Regents Canal, Rotunda has its very own farm in Northumberland which provides produce for the restaurant. Reducing carbon emissions is important at Rotunda, who practice sustainable farming and embrace seasonal produce. The dishes on offer are reasonably priced, include vegan options, fillet steak and signature cocktails.
- 90 York Way, N1 9AG
- 020 7014 2840
- Website
- Mon-Wed 12pm-11pm, Thu-Fri 12pm-12am, Sat 11am-12am, Sun 11am-10pm
35. Lockside, Camden
With a Mexican inspired menu, generous portions and reasonable prices, Lockside is a great place to chill out and enjoy the hippy vibes of Camden Town, with views over the canal and famous Camden Lock. There’s also an extensive drinks menu with more than one signature cocktail to sip on as you watch the boats go by.
- West Yard, Camden, NW1 8AF
- 020 7284 0007
- Website
- Mon-Thu 12pm-11pm, Fri 12pm-1am, Sat 12pm-2am, Sun 12pm-11pm
East London
36. Allegra at the Stratford, Stratford
Voted 53rd best restaurant in the UK in 2022, Allegra offers an innovative and contemporary European cuisine. Located on the 7th floor of Manhattan Loft Gardens in the Stratford Hotel, there are views of the city skyline to be enjoyed while you tuck into some pretty fancy food.
Admittedly this is the sort of restaurant that puts more flowers and jus on your plate than actual food, but there’s a lot to be said for the elegance and impeccable service that accompanies it, not to mention the view. Being on the pricey side, this is perhaps another one to be saved for a special occasion, but definitely worth the wait!
- The Stratford, 20 International Way, E20 1FD
- 020 3973 0545
- Website
- Mon-Tue closed, Wed-Thu 6pm-11pm, Fri-Sat 12pm-12am, Sun 12pm-4:30pm

37. London in the Sky, The o2
If you’re afraid of heights, you might prefer eating at the top of the Shard than at this place. Dining at London in the Sky is much more than your typical dinner experience, with each reservation referred to as a flight!
A 22 seat table, complete with server and harnessed chairs is hoisted into the air by a crane, where you can enjoy breakfast, brunch, lunch, afternoon tea, dinner, cocktails, or a Freixenet Wine tasting with uninterrupted views of the East End. It’s only open in the summer though (thankfully).
- The O2, Peninsula Square, SE10 0DX
- Unknown
- Website
- Wednesday-Sunday, May-August
38. Scoff & Banter, Canary Wharf
If you like the sound of views of the iconic O2 arena, but the idea of being hoisted up by a crane makes you queasy, Scoff & Banter sits down on the riverside across from the dome, making a lovely backdrop for a meal of British soul food. Dishes are made with carefully sourced ingredients from handpicked farms and suppliers, the decor is modern and sleek, and there’s outdoor seating right by the river.
- 5 Fairmont Ave, E14 9JB
- 020 8820 8136
- Website
- Breakfast - Mon-Fri 7:30am-11am, Sat-Sun 7:30am-11am, Lunch & Dinner - Mon-Thu 12pm-10pm, Fri-Sat 12pm-11pm, Sun 12pm-10pm
39. Bōkan 37, Canary Wharf
Bōkan considers themselves to be a dockside beacon for artisanal food and drink, and we’re inclined to agree. They celebrate history with a menu inspired by rich European cultural cuisines that have flowed along the Thames since ancient times. Prices are in the upper-middle of the scale, but the views from the 39th floor rooftop terrace are worth every penny!
- 40 Marsh Wall, E14 9TP
- 020 3530 0550
- Website
- Mon closed, Tue-Fri 6pm-11pm, Sat 12:30pm-3:30pm & 6pm-11pm, Sun closed
40. Capeesh, Canary Wharf
A quaint family restaurant in the hustle of Canary Wharf, Capeesh serves quality Italian food made from authentic ingredients, and that classic heartwarming Italian atmosphere. The restaurant overlooks the Millwall Inner Dock on the Isle of Dogs, with a peaceful vibe being right on the water.
- 4 Pan Peninsula Square, E14 9HN
- 020 7538 1111
- Website
- Everyday 11:30am-10:30pm
41. Plateau, Canada Place
The Plateau claims to have views reminiscent of the cityscapes of New York and Tokyo, showing a backdrop of London’s skyscrapers from its fourth floor restaurant and two outdoor terraces.
While the menu is only a little overpriced, with limited options for those with dietary requirements, there is a bottomless champagne brunch menu for £65pp, or with Prosecco for £25pp, and there’s also a children’s menu too (sans champagne of course!).
- 4th Floor, Canada Square, E14 5ER
- 020 7715 7100
- Website
- Mon-Fri 12pm-10pm, Sat 11:30am-10pm, Sun closed
42. The Cutty Sark, Greenwich
The Cutty Sark pub, sits not far from its namesake ship which has attracted visitors to the area for over 200 years. With views over the Thames, and an interior inspired by the ship and its history, this pub restaurant offers premium British produce accompanied by wine from around the world and locally brewed ales. If you’re looking for a bit of culture while you eat, this is the place to be.
- 4-6 Ballast Quay, SE10 9PD
- 020 8858 3146
- Website
- Mon-Sat 11am-11pm, Sun 12pm-10:30pm
South London
43. The Mayflower, Rotherhithe
This traditional English pub has an outdoor decked area with lovely views of the Thames. Surrounded by cobbled streets and with an open fire inside during colder months, dining here is like going back in time. You can even see the original mooring point from the 17th century outside where the famous Mayflower ship moored before leaving for America.
On the menu are classic British dishes made with fresh, seasonal food, to be enjoyed in the laid back and cosy atmosphere of an authentic British pub.
- 117 Rotherhithe Street, SE16 4NF
- 020 7237 4088
- Website
- Mon-Sat 12pm-11pm, Sun 12pm-10pm

44. OXO Tower, Waterloo
The Oxo Tower restaurant somehow mixes upmarket with inclusive, offering a tasting menu, afternoon tea, and a kids menu, alongside their regular menu. Using only the best seasonal British produce, with wine matched by the restaurant’s team of sommeliers, you can enjoy the perfect celebratory meal with classic views of the Thames and St Paul’s Cathedral.
- Barge House Street, SE1 9PH
- 020 7803 3888
- Website
- Everyday 12pm-9:30pm
45. Skylon, Southbank
Situated on the third floor of the Royal Festival Hall in the Southbank Centre, the restaurant has incredible views of the city scape. Featuring modern British cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere, the menu offers dishes of amazing quality at realistic prices, with the braised beef costing less than £29.
The building also has an interesting history, having been built for the 1951 Festival of Britain, so you can enjoy a bit of culture as you dine.
- Belvedere Rd, Royal Festival Hall, SE1 8XX
- 020 7654 7800
- Website
- Mon-Tue 12pm-11pm, Wed-Fri 12pm-12am, Sat 11:30am-12am, Sun 11:30am-7pm
46. Sea Containers, Southbank
With an unexpectedly light focus on fish, Sea Containers offers an all-day dining experience with a variety of dishes, as well as a brunch menu and a kids’ menu so it’s suitable for any occasion. It’s a relaxed and intimate atmosphere with views over the Thames an outside terrace, and attentive staff. The pricing is also fairly reasonable, which is a bonus!
- 20 Upper Ground, SE1 9PD
- 020 3747 1000
- Website
- See website for opening hours
West London
47. Sam’s Riverside, Hammersmith
Another fancy restaurant with an oyster happy hour, Sam’s Riverside has lovely views of the Thames near Hammersmith Bridge. The kitchen is passionate about working with our small artisan suppliers, from meat, fish and seafood to fruit and vegetables, and everything on the wine menu has been handpicked by the owner.
For a truly wholesome experience, check out Sam’s Larder on your way home to stock up on produce from local grocers, as well as pre-made meals to enjoy at home.
- 4 Crisp Road, Hammersmith W6 9RL
- 020 8237 1020
- Website
- Mon-Sat 8:30am-7pm, Sun 8:30am-5pm
48. The Lyric Bar, Hammersmith
Attached to the Lyric Theatre in Hammersmith, the Lyric Bar sits in a roof garden with views of the surrounding area, serving lunch, dinner and cocktails. Menu items are wholesome, affordable and simple, in a good way. Whilst the view is fairly modest, the space is very popular and the perfect place for dinner and a show!
- Lyric Hammersmith Theatre, Lyric Square, King St, W6 0QL
- 020 3475 7720
- Website
- Mon 12pm (drinks only), Tue-Sat 12pm

49. Fenn, Fulham
The UK only sourced ingredients and wine from 120 different wineries to complement the menu may set you back a pretty penny, but dining at Fenn comes with a relaxed and modern vibe.
Fenn are big on sustainability and carefully select the sources of their produce to make sure it’s the very best quality. Offering an alternative to the traditional restaurant-with-a-view, Fenn has windows on every wall for the perfect people-watching opportunity.
- 194 Wandsworth Bridge Road, SW6 2UF
- 020 7371 9888
- Website
- Mon-Tue closed, Wed-Sat 5pm-9:30pm, Sun closed
50. The Skylark Cafe, Wandsworth Common
Despite classing itself as a cafe, The Skylark carefully sources their food and has a wine list, so definitely deserves to be on this list. With views over the beautiful green scape of the Common, dining here has a sense of peace about it that doesn’t come with the swanky expensive restaurants. As an added bonus, they serve an all-day brunch!
- Wandsworth Common, Dorlcote Rd, SW18 3RT
- Unknown
- Website
- Mon-Fri 8am-5pm, Sat-Sun 9am-5pm
51. The Bell & Crown, Chiswick
Originally established in 1787, this pub has a rich history and even rumours that there used to be a ghost in the bar who would turn on the beer taps in the night. Ghosts aside, the outdoor seating area is right on the Thames, and the only thing haunting it is the peaceful atmosphere. The menu offers traditional pub grub, with veggie and vegan options, as well as a typical Sunday roast, as well as brunch. It couldn’t get more British.
- 11-13 Thames Rd, Strand-on-the-Green, W4 3PL
- 020 8994 4164
- Website
- Mon 12pm-11pm, Tue-Sat 9am-11pm, Sun 9am-10:30pm
It has to be said that London is a beautiful city, with many incredible views on offer. Whether they’re high in the sky or down on the river, with so many choices, both expensive and otherwise, there’s sure to be something that takes your fancy!