When it comes to stylish beer gardens and trendy rooftop terraces, our city suffers from an embarrassment of riches. Frankly, anybody who argues that the capital isn't the greatest place to enjoy an ice-cold drink in the sunshine is lying through their teeth. Whether you're after an Aperol spritz in verdant surrounds or craft beer by the river, here's a list of the best places for alfresco drinking in London.
Last edited by Jasmine Lee Kennedy
Last updated on 30th October 2024
When it comes to alfresco drinking in East London, there are fewer places as well-rounded as Rolling Stock. Perched in the heart of Shoreditch, this classic boozer has old school charm, banging burgers and an expansive beer garden that stays warm in the winter months thanks to its heaters.
Big Penny Social is a slick bar for outdoor drinking in Walthamstow. Not only does it boast a sprawling beer garden where the sun loves to fall, but also live music, sports screenings, comedy nights and so much more.
Colourful, creative and cultural, Barrio brings an exotic twist to London with its quirky outdoor terraces. Spend your summer months in its kitsch yet cool garden area as you absorb the chilled-out, Cuban quality of life. Revel in the fragrant fruit-based cocktails or sip some ice cold beers.
In the mood for some alfresco drinking in King's Cross? Then head to Two Tribes Brewery & Campfire Taproom. Gather your pals and hang out on the cool outdoor terrace, which is decked out with a DJ booth and firepit. Thirsty? There are plenty of lagers or ales to enjoy.
Brimming a menu filled with comfort eats, such as crab linguine, chicken burgers and rosemary salted chips, The Old Frizzle is a fab shout for alfresco dining and drinking on its pretty terrace. And, if you've got a craving for Pimm's, this should be your go-to.
Regularly playing host to amazing live music from both bands and DJs, The Lock Tavern has become a part of nightlife folklore in these parts. Alfresco drinkers have been enjoying the cosy garden for years with its thick beamed wooden canopy wrapped in ivy.
Fronting a cracking beer garden in Balham, The Regent is ideal for its themed bottomless brunches and Sunday lunches. But it's also a great shout for sun-soaked evenings during the summer with an Aperol spritz in hand.
One of our favourite sky-high haunts? Head over to London Bridge Rooftop to enjoy everything from after work drinks and gourmet burgers to bottomless brunches with cocktails and banging tunes, all with beaut views of the city.
Fronting pretty pink marble tables, plenty of foliage and glasses of vino, it's easy to see why Kaso Rooftop Bar & Kitchen at One Hundred in Shoreditch is a real stunner. Check out the rooftop for live music and scenic views of the city during the warmer months.
Soak up the sun as you sip on margaritas, rhubarb bellinis and coconut mojitos at No.35 Mackenzie Walk. A top spot for after-work cocktails in Canary Wharf, the bar and restaurant also has a beautiful waterside terrace for those after some truly classy alfresco drinks.
May Fair Kitchen's alfresco space is perfect once the weather warms, with relaxed seating and cosy lanterns. Swing by to feast on Mexican and Peruvian sharing plates plus sip a range of unique cocktails from the afternoon through 'til late.
This pretty venue serves breakfast, dinner and everything in between. If that wasn't enticing enough, The Sipping Room boasts a cosy outdoor terrace that's perfect for both cocktails in the scorching summer and hot toddies during the colder months.
You can always rely on Megan's for alfresco dining in London. With spaces in top spots including Chiswick, Dulwich and Clapham Common, there are plenty of terraces or pretty patios to enjoy Mediterranean-inspired eats. As for the drinks? Think cocktails or smoothies.
When it comes to alfresco dining and drinking, there's no better place than No 32 The Old Town. Seasonal, stylish and boasting a really - and we mean really - nice roof terrace, this Clapham hangout is a hard alfresco spot to beat.
Dating back to 1821, The Devonshire has gained a reputation as a Balham staple, and one of the biggest draws is of course the beautiful garden. Pick out a sunny day and set up camp here for a top choice of ales, craft beers, spirits and wine, not to mention elevated pub grub.
Wagtail Rooftop Bar & Restaurant is elevating your alfresco drinking in the City of London with its sky-high terrace. Not only can you expect unbeatable views of the capital's most iconic landmarks, but also delish, upmarket fare and an enviable drinks list.
Most venues close to the stunning Battersea Park are playing for second place when it comes to outdoor space, but not The Prince Albert. This gem of a gastropub features an award-winning terrace, which becomes a popular grazing spot for SW11's after-work crowd when the sun is out.
One of the best places for alfresco drinking in London has to be Market Halls Victoria. Decked out in stylish furnishings, with impressive views of the surrounding city, this place is equipped for all seasons with its comfy booths and cosy outdoor heaters.
A pedigree destination in the heart of Liverpool Street, Devonshire Terrace is an outdoor space in London with plenty of architectural cool on its side. Swing by its laid-back plot of casual tables and darling foliage, then grab a glass of Champers and relax.
Situated in Peckham, CLF Art Lounge is a great summertime spot to check out. Sporting gorgeous greenery and string lights in the roof garden, the venue also boasts live entertainment, delish cocktails and Dominican food to boot.
Get on down to BFI Southbank and discover one of the best alfresco terraces in Waterloo. Not only does it showcase gorgeous views over the River Thames and London's landmarks, but you can also sip delicious cocktails and craft beers there.
One of South London's best bars for alfresco drinking has to be Venn St. Records. Found on the edge of Clapham Common, this cool neighbourhood spot fronts live music, freshly baked pizza and handcrafted cocktails alongside a large outdoor space. What's more, there's also a sister spot in Battersea, too.
On the hunt for a spot to spend those long balmy summer nights? Look no further than Vauxhall Food & Beer Garden - the alfresco spot that's decked out with tasty street food stalls, spacious seating and a huge screen showing all the major sports fixtures.
Get on down to The Little Scarlet Door in Soho on a summer's day to take advantage of its pretty alfresco terrace. While sitting on the banquet seats, surrounded by vibrant pops of colour, get to know the cracking cocktail list.
Fancy a pint by the water? Head over to Hackney Wicks' Barge East where you'll find a boat restaurant and stunning riverside seating area for all of your drinking and dining needs. Expect wines, beers, ciders and a selection of cocktails.
A gastropub wonder at the heart of Lee, The Crown Tavern is known for its stunning terrace, which becomes a hive of activity for contented imbibers when the weather is fine. Pop along to find a selection of cask ales, world-class wines or refreshing long drinks waiting for you.
One of the best bars in Greenwich, The Old Joinery is home to a pretty beer garden that's made for alfresco drinking. With a charming pergola, a menu of street food and thirst-quenching cocktails on offer, this is an unmissable spot in the warmer months.
Home to an outdoor terrace, Aragon House is the perfect boozer for alfresco drinking in Chelsea. Grab a seat and bask in the sunshine, all before delving into mouthwatering eats, from Sunday roasts to hearty fare. Fancy bringing your doggo? You can do that too.
This Spanish restaurant and bar brings you small plates, tasty mains and delicious wine in the heart of the City. Head out to the alfresco terrace of El Vino Blackfriars in the summer and lose an evening in the company of good friends and a few bottles of fine wine.
Seeking out places for outdoor drinking in West London? Head to The Elgin where you can chomp on delicious Sunday roasts or juicy burgers while sipping on craft beer and vino. Plus, you can pop inside and catch whatever sports game happens to be on.
It's not often you find a beer garden in Greenwich, and yet here The Lost Hour stands, fronting a lovely little space filled with fake grass, fairy lights and colourful chairs. Head here to enjoy classic pub grub and plenty of refreshing pints.
The trendy Shoreditch venue that is Queen of Hoxton boasts a remarkable rooftop terrace that's always a big hit. Coming with its own bar, garden, kitchen and BBQ, it's a truly ideal spot for alfresco drinking, especially during summer nights.
From quiz nights and classic cocktails to live music, White Horse really has it all. But the Wembley spot also has a stunning beer garden for those looking to soak up the sun over a few drinks. We recommend the margaritas or espresso martinis.
If you're looking for places to drink outdoors in Central London, head to The Coral Room. Not only will you find creative quaffs and cheeseboards, but also an Instagrammable setting that's perfect for day dates.
West End on the Thames is a cool cruise showcasing a spacious rooftop that's perfect for office summer parties of anywhere between 2 and 500. Book the private venue out to enjoy Pimm's, BBQ bites and amazing views, with DJs and dancing to follow.
A sleek choice for places to drink outside in London, The Montague on The Gardens Hotel is serving up afternoon tea, cocktails and food in a gorgeous setting. Located opposite the British Museum, this terrace is a brilliant shout for meet-ups with the family or a fancy date.
A post-office paradise in the heart of Canary Wharf, the expansive terrace at The Parlour is a must-visit if you work locally. While away an evening with friends or colleagues as this relaxed, informal spot offers an outdoor bar and plenty of space for all.
Get alfresco drinking the right way at Wolfpack Queens Park. Not only is this top-notch taproom home to plenty of craft beer, cocktails and wine, but it also has a glorious outside space to bask in the sunshine with pals.
Slinging out delicious cocktails, such as espresso martinis, pina coladas and mezcal margaritas, LOCKES in Covent Garden and Battersea has an alfresco area worth getting stuck into. There are a few quaint tables to settle on for sun-soaked tipples and sumptuous pizza slices.
Boasting a spacious beer garden in East London, Signature Brew Blackhorse Road is one of our top picks for outdoor sipping in the summer months. Visit here or the Haggerston taproom to make the most of the 12 beer lines while enjoying live music and delish eats.
Touting a pretty beer garden, Queen's Head Hammersmith is ideal for those outside drinks in West London. Meet your pals or even take along your doggo to this popular spot to enjoy a mouthwatering range of eats or bevvies in the laid-back outdoor space.
If you're looking to get involved with some alfresco sips in the East, hit up Colour Factory in Hackney Wick for all things Aperol spritzes and craft beers. The iconic music venue is home to an array of food vendors, plus a south-facing terrace equipped with heaters in the cooler months. Sip your favourite tipples while tucking into fare from The Hogless Roast, Pittagoras and more.
Fronting a load of streetside tables, The Jolly Butchers provides a cool beer garden in Stoke Newington where you can soak up real ales and craft cider. Better yet, the lineup of gastro favourites will keep you well-fed.
Hunker down under the heaters at Strongroom Bar and Kitchen to enjoy a few alfresco drinks in East London. Not only is this one incredibly creative hub that's stooped in musical history, but the bar's menu of enticing food and drinks is sure to keep you well-fuelled.
Boasting one of London's prettiest outdoor terraces, this canalside haunt is the only place to sun yourself this summer. Grab a cocktail from Rotunda's impressive Mexican-inspired list, then you can sip away to your heart's content with stunning views of the water.
Laurel hedges enclose the delightful outdoor space at The Coat And Badge, which is rightly considered one of the best beer gardens in South West London. Ideal for everything from people-watching to live sport with drinks in tow, there's also plenty of cover to retreat to if the weather turns.
When you want to drink outside at a waterfront location, check out East London Liquor Company. The Mile End distillery bar fronts a cool warehouse building, an outdoor terrace and a drinks list made up of whisky oand gin.
Grove House Tavern is a charming neighbourhood pub, offering a quiet spot for alfresco drinking in South London. Settle down in the spacious outdoor space to indulge in a long list of refreshing tipples alongside lunchtime sarnies from Mondo Sando.
Featuring a stunning garden space, North London's The Canonbury is a firm choice for those seeking alfresco drinks with friends. Soak up the atmosphere and delve into the extensive menu of pub grub, from burgers to a Sunday roast, with a delicious selection of hand-crafted cocktails. to boot.
Not only is The Eagle an absolute treasure when it comes to its gastro grub offering, but this Hammersmith hottie also has a huge garden that's perfect for alfresco drinks in West London. From rattan furniture and heaters to luscious trees and grassy knolls, this sweet space is a sight to see.
Sip on award-winning craft beers while looking out across the river at this Hackney Wick outdoor bar. A three-floor spot with a sustainable ethos, Two More Years is pouring up organic wines and award-winning craft beer, while also putting on a number of live music sets.
The Exhibit is a must for alfresco drinking in South London, offering a cosy patio space for sipping handcrafted cocktails and grazing on enticing dishes. While you're there, why not check out the bottomless bingo brunches?
If you'd like to sip your drinks in a beer garden overlooking the canal in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, The Lock Inn is your go-to. Think cocktails and local craft beers washing down pizzas, burgers and more in the sunny canalside space.
In need of those all-important alfresco pours? Then get groovin' over to The Plough Beddington. This Croydon drinking den offers an outdoor terrace that's ideal for basking in the sunshine, alongside a mouthwatering food menu from the Burger Shack and beers galore.
Tear yourself away from Flight Club's cool fairground-style interiors for a sunny rooftop terrace in Victoria. A circus-themed dream of festoon lighting and tasty frozen cocktails, it promises a place to soak up the sun between rounds of high-tech darts.
Boasting delicious burgers, amazing pints and plenty of other tipples, The Rising Sun is a top-notch boozer for an alfresco affair. Along with a cracking menu, it fronts a beautiful beer garden right in the heart of Richmond.
Thanks to one of the biggest beer gardens near Soho and Oxford Street, The Oxford Market is top choice for pubs with outdoor seating across the warmer months. This Victorian boozer combines modern style with original charm, alongside burgers, steak sarnies and your favourite tipples.
People's Park Tavern has a massive beer garden that creates a sense of love for our British environment, with views of Victoria Park and a constant influx of smiling sun-revellers. The sprawling space is perfect for whiling away a few hours in the summer.
A beer garden crossed with some of the city's best street food traders, Vinegar Yard has it all. And if it could get any better, this year they've teamed up with Rekorderlig to bring you delicious fruity cider slushies to enjoy alongside Nanny Bills, Nik's Kitchen and views of The Shard.
If you're looking for alfresco drinks in West London, you've come to the right place. Fronting a gorgeous covered terrace, No. 197 Chiswick Fire Station is one of the swishest spots yet. Head on down for pretty plates alongside seasonal cocktails in this stunning sunshine plot.
A guide to outdoor drinking in London wouldn't be complete without Sabine Rooftop Bar, the gorgeous sky-high spot that's serving a seasonally changing list of cocktails across a swish space. Think views of St Paul's and small plates to accompany.
For alfresco drinks in the West End, head to The Burlington Arms – you won't regret it. It serves classic British fare, such as burgers, steak and crispy squid. Sit outside, take in the sunshine and try one of the classic cocktails or a large pint of beer.
The Dog and Fox's inviting alfresco space is one of the best beer gardens in Wimbledon. The front fills up quickly at the first sight of sunshine, as drinkers and diners flock to the local hub to chomp on British food and sip a vast array of boozy favourites.
The Saxon is a Clapham High Street bar with a pretty outdoor terrace space that puts you in the heart of this ever-popular neighbourhood. Make your way through the list of signature small plates and stunning concoctions next time you're craving a little alfresco action.
A top-notch choice for alfresco drinks, The Duchess of Kent has incredible street seating in Islington and features a fabulous seasonal menu. Enjoy burgers or sharing boards while also taking in your outdoor view of the city.
One of the most incredible places for alfresco drinks in London, rooftop hotspot 14 Hills has a picturesque outdoor terrace that's perfect for summertime sipping. Head over to the Fenchurch Street bar and restaurant for fizz and fine cocktails.
A Grade II-listed building, The Gun is an excellent pub sitting on the banks of the Thames. With amazing views of the river and the O2, this charming boozer will let you enjoy the great riverside terrace, alongside a seasonal British menu and delish drinks to accompany it.
For outdoor drinking in South London, The Crooked Well is one of our favourite pubs. Located just off Peckham Road, the friendly watering hole serves a mouthwatering selection of modern European cuisine, from fresh pasta to burgers oozing with smoked provola.
Set within the grounds of the Old Royal Naval College, The Old Brewery is a unique and historic pub located just yards away from the legendary Cutty Sark. An ideal spot to sample craft beers and a healthy range of distilled spirits, there's a relaxed outdoor terrace for when the sun makes an appearance.
As it flaunts a pretty outdoor space, you know that Maltby Street Wine House is coming in strong on the alfresco drinks front. When the sun's shining, take a seat on the terrace, where you'll be able to quaff some signature bevvies and explore the bar snacks menu.
Boasting a covered and heated terrace to the front, The King of Prussia is one of our top picks for alfresco drinking in North London. The friendly boozer boasts a huge selection of local ales, along with summer spritzes and fruity craft sips.
If you're after an alfresco drinking hotspot in the city, The Refinery Bankside is a great venue. Just a stone's throw from the Tate Modern, this crackin' watering hole offers a sun-soaked terrace, which is ideal for those warm-weather brunches and pints galore.
JuJu's Bar & Stage is a great shout for alfresco drinking in London. Not only has it got an expansive beer garden - with heaters for when the sun goes down - but the Shoreditch watering hole also has an array of craft brews, seasonal cocktails and mezcal.
One North London haunt that really does catch the summer rays is The Lord Palmerston. The Tufnel Park hotspot boasts a lovely garden that's complete with cushions, umbrellas and everything else you need for a day of alfresco drinking.
Make your way over to Kraft Dalston Bar & Restaurant for alfresco drinking in East London. While sat on the pretty rooftop terrace, enjoy delicious tipples from German Kraft Beer plus Jim and Tonic Distillery, all while delving into delectable Japanese and Latin fare from Nativo.
Head to Kindred for tasty cocktails in a gorgeous beer garden. The Hammersmith beer garden is bound to be buzzing during the summer months as drinkers and diners come to enjoy bottomless brunches, alfresco drinks and live music nights.
Located in the heart of Knightsbridge, The Hari Hotel is home to a gorgeous rooftop terrace, decked out with lush green botanicals and twinkling fairy lights. The perfect luxe spot for a tipple or two under the stars or drawn-out lunches, it's a must-visit spot.
As it offers two terrace spaces right beside the river, you won't be surprised to see The Riverside fill up quickly for after-work drinks in the summertime. It's a stylish place to enjoy a catch-up with pals, complete with views, a buzzing atmosphere and a comprehensive range of tasty tipples.
Searching for outdoor watering holes in the Bromley and Beckenham area? The Artful Duke is an excellent choice. Fronting bottomless brunches, quizzes and live music, not to mention an epic beer garden, it's fab for whiling away the weekends.
The Adam & Eve in Homerton is a fantastic pub for a bit of alfresco boozing, what with its pretty garden, outdoor screens and ample selection of beers. As for food? The kitchen dishes out a tasty array of fusion Thai street food.
Mooch around the delightful outside area of The Fentiman Arms and soak up the sizzling sounds of the BBQs during the hazy summer months. Here, you can glug on a refreshing pint or crisp glass of wine on the beautiful terrace, which offers an oasis space in the heart of London.
As it sits at the base of The Gherkin, it's highly unlikely that you'll find as iconic an alfresco space in London as this. With the capital's most recognised building looming over you, The Sterling is just that: a truly sterling plot. From its grand selection of tables and notably large space, it's simply ideal.
If you fancy some alfresco drinking near London Bridge, Hay's On The River is a fabulous watering hole. Check out beaut views of the Thames while sipping a cocktail or two. And if you get peckish, wolf down meaty burgers dripping with cheese or wood-fired pizzas.
A lush lavender-toting garden in the heart of Battersea, The Four Thieves is coming up trumps when it comes to scoping out alfresco drinking in South London. From the atmospheric of fairy lights to the craft beers and homemade gin, it brings a good ol' dose of something a little different.
Become acquainted with Brazil's famous carnival vibes this summer on Floripa's fun-filled outdoor terrace. This vibrant and colourful Latin oasis is a haven for cocktails fans, plus it caters to ravers ready for festival season with its stream of upbeat sounds and dynamic atmosphere.
A spot at The Crown's stunning terrace, which overlooks Victoria Park, is the envy of all. Here, you'll get to enjoy alfresco sips, including craft beer, real ale and all kinds of delicious wines, as well as tasty British grub and Sunday lunches.
Those of you looking for alfresco drinks in West London won't be hard pushed to enjoy the pub antics of Union Tavern. Grab a pint and settle down for a drink by the river as it not only boasts a top selection of beers, but also a load of scrumptious BBQ bites.
Alfresco drinking at a crackin' boozer doesn't get better than Three Tuns in Aldgate. Step inside this cosy City gem, where you'll be able to nab a pint at the bar, all before making your way to the pretty laid-back terrace for a few sips. Hungry? There are pies for that too.
The Fellow boasts a handsome rooftop terrace in King's Cross. Fitted with a handful of wooden tables for soaking up the sunshine, as well as heaters and covers for when the temperature drops, it's a great spot to knock back a few of the venue's signature cocktails.
The Imperial Arms is a charming neighbourhood pub in Fulham, with a gorgeous garden that's simply made for alfresco drinks in the summer months. Get your fill of handcrafted sips and British grub while surrounded by colourful foliage and splashes of artwork.
Four Quarters Elephant and Castle is the ideal spot for a little alfresco drinking. Head inside and choose from over 30 arcade machines and pinball as well as Donkey Kong and Guitar Hero. And if you fancy eating, tuck into some loaded fries on their streetside tables.
For alfresco areas, we also need to give a shoutout to The Black Lion in West Hampstead. Not only will you enjoy mouthwatering roasts and red wine at this joint, but its outdoor garden comes complete with chic wooden seating, string lights and pretty plants.
Looking for a pre-National Theatre pitstop? Look no further than The Green Room, the stunning glass-walled bar and restaurant that sits in the heart of Southbank. Grab a table in the light-flooded dining room or head outside for cocktails and canapes on the lawn.
Looking for unique places to enjoy London alfresco drinks? Head to The Skylark Café for a private dining experience, complete with craft beers and wines. If you're celebrating a party, go all-out with a BBQ on the charming terrace space.
Home to a pretty and expansive outdoor terrace in the City of London, The Refinery New Street Square offers a premium selection of cocktails and tasty dishes. Head over to this or the Bankside location when the sun is high and bed down while soaking up that coveted sunshine.
The Castle's beaut of a rooftop terrace helps it to stand out from its Pentonville Road neighbours. Get yourself up here for some pub grub and a few drinks accompanied by great views, not to mention plenty of heaters to keep you toasty in the evening.
Looking to drink outdoors in East London? The Gate is a charming spot for alfresco catch-ups. Whether you're stopping by for cocktails or fancy grazing on the menu of organic eats, this place tops the experience off with incredible views and stylish furnishings.
There's so much going on at The Star of Kings, it can be tricky to keep up. Fronting an entertainment schedule brimming with live music and DJs yet retaining the good old-fashioned feel of a solid pub, it completes its impressive resume with a lovely alfresco area.
Craving a few alfresco drinks with your mates? While soaking in the sun, you can enjoy Golden Bee's amazing rooftop alongside cocktails galore. Tip back everything from G&Ts to margaritas and smoking Mexican sours.
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With an outdoor terrace that overlooks Regent's Canal, Smith's Bar and Grill is the perfect place to go for a waterside cocktail or spot of lunch. If the weather turns, don't worry - it has plenty of space inside that, with luscious foliage, feels like a garden in itself.
One of London's best rooftop bars, Aqua Kyoto, has joined forces with Veuve Clicquot to bring us the ultimate summer hangout. Not only is it an absolute beaut, with radiant tones and blooms of flowers, but there's also bubbles and Japanese-influenced cocktails.
The ultimate spot for alfresco drinking in Shepherd's Bush, The Hawk's Nest is home to 25 fully-heated outdoor tables available for booking, alongside a selection of delicious pizzas and sides, not to mention craft beers and cocktails at the bar.
