Rooftop pools and London is maybe not the perfect match, mainly because of the sometimes grey and cold climate in the UK. But when the weather is in the right mood, you want to find a refreshing oasis high above the bustling city streets, and there are a few great options. We decided to visit the ones who looked most promising, so we could share our thoughts and tips.
Update:
This article was updated on March 26th, 2025, with new information, new hotels, updated photos, booking links and insider tips.
Photo: The Ned
Overview
In short:
A true London classic, The Ned has been an important presence in the city since 1924, and its upstairs club is one of the best in the city. The Ned’s Club Upstairs have two striking terraces, a large rooftop bar decked with London glamour, and a fantastic rooftop pool that has more than earned it a place in this list.
What we say:
There aren't that many rooftop pools in London, but this is one of our favorites! The view is great, the vibe is nice and all other features at this lovely hotel makes it complete. The pool is 20 meters long and heated and overlooks the St. Paul's Cathedral and a sizeable portion of London's skyline.
Our insider tip
- Available only to hotel guests and Ned Club members, the pool is also complemented by the hotel's spa and the gym, making it a fantastic choice for those looking to relax in style.
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Details
The Ned
Hotel price
Around$400
for 1 room, 1 night
including taxes & fees
Photo: The Berkeley
Overview
In short:
One of the most luxurious rooftop pools and hotels in London, the fancy The Berkeley Hotel. During spring and summer, hotel guests can swim in the heated rooftop pool and take in spectacular views of the red brick of Knightsbridge, the charming crescents of Belgravia and the vast scale of Hyde Park.
What we say:
The pool area is designed with cool shades and natural furnishings setting the tone for relaxation, while refreshing touches – including iced Granita and cooling spray – are perfect for leisurely poolside days.
Our insider tip
- Take a dip before cooling down with a tropical smoothie or seasonal spritz from the pool bar – accompanied by small plates and snacks.
- One of the most luxurious hotel brands in the world. So, expect steep prices.
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Details
The Berkeley
Hotel price
Around$1100
for 1 room, 1 night
including taxes & fees
Photo: art’otel LDN Battersea
Overview
In short:
Sitting on the 16th floor of art’otel London Battersea Power Station you'll find the heated swimming pool, overlooking the famous Battersea Power Station chimneys.
What we say:
Probably the coolest and biggest rooftop infinity pool in London. Swim up to the edge to sit face to face with the Battersea Power Station, or simply relax on one of the loungers with a drink in hand, sunglasses on and a good book. That's what we did!
Our insider tip
- The heated pool is available year-round, and hotel guests are welcome to take a dip. Swimming pool loungers are available on a fist come first serve basis.
- Please note the pool could be closed for private events, so please check with the hotel team in advance to be sure.
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Details
art’otel LDN Battersea
Hotel price
Around$250
for 1 room, 1 night
including taxes & fees
Photo: Shoreditch House
Overview
In short:
An exclusive and hip destination located in East London, the Shoreditch House combines work and play in a unique way. Surrounded by lush shrubbery, comfortable lounge areas, poolside loungers, and daybeds, this is a fantastic destination for those looking for some peace in the middle of one of the world's busiest cities.
What we say:
A lovely London rooftop pool! Open year-round from 7:00 am to 10:00 pm, the Shoreditch House rooftop pool offers impressive views of the East End, the Gherkin, and the Heron Tower, as well as a fantastic rooftop bar and delicious food options. The pool itself is 16 meters long, fully heated, and decorated with beautiful blue tiles, and it's located right next to the 'lazy lawn': an open-air terrace perfect for sunbathing, eating, and drinking.
Our insider tip
- The Shoreditch House is exclusive to club members and hotel guests. It is also an adult-only venue, so you'll be able to enjoy the pool (probably) without to much splashing.
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Details
Shoreditch House
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Address:
Ebor St, Hackney, London
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Availability:
Hotel guests / Members
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Hours:
Open year-round from 7:00 am to 10:00 pm
-
Towels included:
Yes
Hotel price
Around$400
for 1 room, 1 night
including taxes & fees
Photo: White City House
Overview
In short:
Occupying part of the former BBC Television Centre, the White City House offers a large rooftop pool and terrace, designed to evoke an exotic yet relaxing atmosphere.
What we say:
The pool is spacious, and surrounded by comfortable sun loungers and beautiful greenery. Since this terrace is located a bit away from downtown London, it doesn't have the best views around, but considering the extra space to stretch your legs and move around, the trade-off is more than worth it.
Our insider tip
- The entire terrace is large enough to avoid overcrowding during the summer days, and thanks to its two rooftop bars, chances are you won't have to wait long for a drink either.
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Details
White City House
Hotel price
Around$450
for 1 room, 1 night
including taxes & fees
6
Virgin Hotels London-Shoreditch
Photo: Virgin Hotels London-Shoreditch
Overview
In short:
Located in Shoreditch, what used to be Mondrian London Shoreditch was during summer 2024 turned into the Virgin Hotels London-Shoreditch. The fabolous rooftop pool and terrace is (luckily) pretty much the same. Sharing space with the modern rooftop restaurant and bar Marlin's On The Roof, the terrace is inspired by the Mediterranean.
What we say:
The glittering pool is a sight by itself, with heated deep blue waters surrounded by majestic views over the East London skyline. The pool's unique look is complemented by wooden terraces, lush shrubbery, wooden deckchairs, ample sun loungers, raffia bistro chairs, beautiful wicker lampshades, and a pergola-style ceiling. Well worth a visit and stay!
Our insider tip
- While everyone are welcome to visit the rooftop restaurant and bar, the rooftop pool is strictly exclusive for Virgin Hotels London-Shoreditch hotel guests and members of Blue Marlin Ibiza London.
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Details
Virgin Hotels London-Shoreditch
Hotel price
Around$250
for 1 room, 1 night
including taxes & fees
7
Sky Pool at Embassy Gardens
Photo: Sky Pool at Embassy Gardens
Overview
In short:
Considered the world's very first 'sky pool', and opened with a band in May 2021, this entry is truly a sight to behold! Suspended ten stories in the air between two buildings, the Sky Pool offers a unique swimming experience, albeit not one for the faint of heart, as you'll be swimming from one building to the other with each lap.
What we say:
A bonus feature on this list, as this rooftop pool is almost impossible to visit. The pool's jaw-dropping design doesn't exist only for the novelty either, as it allows guests to explore the full spectrum of the terraces, which include a rooftop bar, a spa, and a roof garden.
Our insider tip
- Unlike most entries in this list, this Sky Pool is exclusive to residents of the Embassy Garden's Buildings, so to swim in this amazing pool, you'll have to move there, or befriend someone who lives there.
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Details
Sky Pool at Embassy Gardens
Hans has visited over 500 rooftop bars, 200 rooftop pools and 300 rooftop restaurants since 2015. This vast experience has made Hans a true rooftop expert, and one of the most knowledgeable in the field. Today, numerous of travel magazines, bloggers and media websites contact Hans to get his expertise on rooftops.
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