12th Knot

You look good.

As always, but right now particularly so, because – like all fanciful, romantic Londoners just hours before the sun sets – you have a date tonight.

Like most people will, you consider the viewing platform of The Shard, but in succumbing to your better judgement decide it’s too intense for this particular soirée. Well rationalised. Then there’s Quo Vadis, Gordon’s Wine Bar and V&A Lates. Also nice, also not quite right. Finally – and as most people won’t – upon remembering that London’s list of 12th floor bars with open air balconies and panoramic views on the edge of the Southbank isn’t actually that long, you think of 12th Knot.

It’s time. You meet your other half at Sea Containers London, pass a Tom Dixon-designed ship’s hull on entry, head to the reception desk and are politely greeted and escorted to the lift (past the taxidermied peacock, of course). And if your date wasn’t already impressed by your casual suavity, they definitely will be when the doors open on 12th Knot, revealing two sides of floor-to-ceiling windows, mirrored tables, teal velvet sofas, and dandelion chandeliers dangling over a small jungle in the centre.

Impressing tends to makes one thirsty. Thankfully – again, because you’re in the know – you order two cocktails from their lengthy signature list, perhaps the Chai Tai (with banana and fig leaf liqueur), or the Dark Forest Margatini (with tequila, mezcal, blackberries and black pepper). And you’ll follow those up with a couple of small plates, like pork belly sliders, half a dozen oysters or lobster toast…

… all of which are best enjoyed in the rattan swing chairs on the terrace, overlooking St. Paul’s and the river.

Now you look really good.

Thanks only in small part to those cocktails.

NOTE: 12th Knot is open Tuesday-Saturday from 5pm till 1am, with DJs Thurs-Sat. You can make a booking, and find out more, HERE.

12th Knot | Sea Containers London, 20 Upper Ground, SE1 9PD

Like bars with a view? Check out your ultimate London rooftop bar guide