Bloomsbury to welcome its first rooftop bar and restaurant Arcus with panoramic views this summer

Arcus, described as Bloomsbury’s first and only rooftop bar and restaurant, is due to open this summer overlooking Russell Square. Operated by Imperial London Hotels, the 330-seat venue will be open to both members of the public and hotel guests, offering near-360° views across the capital.

The bar occupies a footprint of 327 sq m, ranking among central London’s largest rooftop venues according to the team. The views extend across the City and St Paul’s Cathedral to the London Eye and the domes of the British Museum, with Russell Square below.

The interiors at Arcus combine mid-century textures with a modernist aesthetic, and feature original artwork by Adam Ellis Studio Art House throughout. Cleverly, the space is designed to follow the path of the sun throughout the day, flowing from indoor to outdoor areas and divided into different zones with high tables and lounge seating. Canopies provide shelter in varying weather, and the lighting has been arranged to suit different times of day, from brunch through to the evening, when there will be live music and late-night DJ sets.

The food and drink offering comprises cocktails and a seasonally changing menu of small plates. Alongside the refreshments, Arcus plans to run a programme of daily activities that changes from morning to night. These will include sunrise sound baths, live performances and sun salutations, aiming to encourage guests to connect with the neighbourhood and the changing seasons.

Arcus is part of the portfolio of Imperial London Hotels, a family-run company that has operated in London since 1837 and is now managed by its seventh generation. Based in Bloomsbury, they run eight properties, and also hold a strategic partnership with IHG Hotels & Resorts to operate the Holiday Inn Bloomsbury.

The venue is located near the Imperial Hotel, whose guests will be among those able to use the rooftop alongside local residents and other visitors.

Food Desk

Arcus is scheduled to open in summer 2026 at 61-66 Russell Square, London WC1B 5BB. For further information and updates, visit the bar’s website here.