We’re not talking about a spa day or a hiking trip. We’re talking about two specific kinds of places that make you forget you’re in a city: rooftop bars that give you a skyline view and hidden pubs that feel like secret clubs. If you can’t decide between the two, the best rule is simple: choose the place that makes you feel like you’re the only person on the planet.

Rooftop Bars: The High‑Altitude Experience

There are about 48 rooftop bars in the city that actually offer a view worth the extra 15 pence on the drink. The top three, by sheer elevation, are The Sky Lounge at 35 stories, Vertigo Vista on the 28th floor, and Cloud Nine on a 32‑story office tower. Each of them has a different vibe: Sky Lounge is all about craft cocktails, Vertigo offers a rotating seasonal menu, and Cloud Nine is famous for its sunset gin‑and‑tonics.

What you’ll notice immediately is that the seating is not a random scatter. The tables are arranged in a way that each one faces a different corner of the city, so you can pick a spot and watch the sunset over the river on one side and the skyline on the other. If you’re a photographer, bring a tripod; the light changes in 30‑minute intervals.

Hidden Pubs: The Secret Society of Ale

Hidden pubs are a different breed. They’re tucked behind back doors, inside old warehouses, or disguised as a bookshop. There are roughly 12 that fit that description, and they’re usually only known through word‑of‑mouth or a single Instagram story. The most popular are Leaky Cauldron, Back Alley Brews, and Undercover Ale House.

What makes them special is the atmosphere. The décor is intentionally low‑key: wooden beams, dim lighting, and a bar that looks like it could have been built in 1920. The bartenders are often local micro‑brew experts, and the menu changes monthly based on the nearest farmers’ market. If you’re looking for a place that feels like it’s been there forever, a hidden pub is the answer.

Timing Matters: When to Go

Rooftop bars are best from 6 pm to 9 pm. That’s when the sky shifts from pink to deep blue, and the city lights start to blink. If you stay past 10 pm, the temperature drops and the view loses its glow. Hidden pubs, on the other hand, are perfect for late nights. Most of them open at 7 pm, and the crowds thin out by 11 pm. That’s when the real conversation starts, and the music drops to a low rumble.

There’s a small downside: rooftop bars can get crowded on weekends, so you might have to wait up to 20 minutes for a table if you don’t book in advance. Hidden pubs have a stricter policy: no reservations, so you’ll need to be patient if it’s a Friday night.

What to Bring: Essentials for the Weekend

• Comfortable shoes – you’ll be walking up a flight of stairs or down a narrow hallway.
• Phone with a good camera – the sunset from a rooftop is a story you’ll want to share.
• Cash – many hidden pubs still prefer cash over cards.
• Identification – some rooftop bars require ID for age verification if you’re ordering cocktails.

From Bars to Games: A Quick Detour

After a night of sipping gin at a rooftop bar or sharing a pint in a hidden pub, many people look for a way to keep the fun going. That’s where online gaming comes in. For those who want to test their luck from the comfort of their sofa, Spinfin Casino offers a wide range of slots and table games that can be played with a mobile phone or laptop.

Choosing the Right Spot for Your Mood

If you’re in the mood for a high‑rise escape, pick a rooftop bar that offers a view of the river. If you want a low‑key conversation, head to a hidden pub that’s known for its craft beers. Either way, the key is to arrive on time, bring the right gear, and be ready to enjoy the moment.

Final Thought: The Perfect Weekend Is a Balance

A great weekend starts with a clear plan and ends with a memory you can’t wait to relive. Whether you’re watching the city light up from 35 stories high or sharing a quiet laugh over a pint in a hidden corner, the right choice will make the night feel like a secret shared only with the stars.