Drinking At: 12th Knot – The Rooftop Bar at Sea Containers London

12th Knot might not be quite as famous as Lyaness downstairs, but Sea Containers’ upstairs bar is no second-placer. Offering iconic views over the Thames and rather perfect drinks, it’s a stellar cocktail bar that you need to visit.

If you haven’t visited, our 12th Knot review tells you exactly why you should…

12th Knot: The Bar

12th Knot: formerly the Rumpus Room – you know the rooftop bar with the crazy beautiful views out over London, a dramatic exterior and those very drinkable cocktails? Well if you didn’t, you know now.

You’d think that with a bar like Lyaness (formerly Dandelyan – which was named as the best bar in the world) downstairs, 12th Knot might struggle to get a look in. Not so. 

Judging from the buzzy atmosphere and packed tables we’ve encountered on each of our visits, 12th Knot is steaming along just fine.

Deservedly so. This gem of a cocktail bar sits atop Sea Containers on a quieter part of the Southbank. It’s cool without trying too hard, offering plenty of options for those in search of their next great drink. We low-level love it and think you will too.

The greatest challenge about any visit to 12th Knot is actually finding the place. Accessed by a dedicated lift that’s hidden well away from the hotel’s main lifts, it can be a bit confusing to find. 

But, once you’re gliding up towards the entrance, you can sit safe in the knowledge that everything else is going to be just peachy.

It’s safe to say that this sea containers cocktail bar makes a cracking first impression – from the huge floor to ceiling windows letting in ample light (golden hour here is a dream!), to the jewel-toned decor adding just the right amount of opulence without feeling too faffy.

You’ll already be planning your next visit… and that’s before you’ve even had a chance to look at the drinks menu.

 12th Knot: Cocktail Menu

The cocktail menu is diverse and mostly in-house creations made by the skilled mixologists behind the bar. Recently, 12th Knot have teamed up with Reyka Vodka to give their menu a total overhaul, bringing some extra  innovation and creativity to the bar.

Our favourite, Fire & Ice, blends Reyka Vodka with Kahlua, Amaro, and spiced oat milk – trust us, it’s a winner. Though, we also love the Fruit Sour Fizz – it’s zesty, fragrant and exactly what you need to ease you into the evening.

Another winner comes in the form of the Dark Forest Margatini – a very drinkable mix of Patron Silver, Mezcal Verde, Noily Pratt, blackberries, and black pepper. It sounds like a bit too much, it’s not – but it does pack a welcomed punch.

Non-drinkers can also rejoice. Rather than the usual half-hearted concoctions (or, even worse, J2O) you’re usually faced with if you’re not drinking alcohol, you have several well-thought-through options to choose from.

Cocktails are generally priced between £13-14 for alcoholic versions, £9 without. Steep, yes, but no more so than most other central London bars – with the added benefit that the setting, service and views are much better than most other London drinking spots can boast.

Final Thoughts

12th Knot is totally worth your time and money. The sea containers rooftop bar is the perfect location for date night, chilled afternoon drinks, or a wild night out with the girls.

12th Knot: Practical Information + Map

Address: 20 Upper Ground, South Bank, London SE1 9PD

Phone: 020 3747 1063

Website