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 updated on 13th March 2023
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.
Slinging out delicious cocktails, such as espresso martinis, pina coladas and mezcal margaritas, LOCKES 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Overlooking Notting Hill from the banks of Little Venice, Skylark really is a unique rooftop bar in London. If you're a sucker for cocktails, this lofty location is the perfect setting for after-work tipples and date nights alike.
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.
If you're on the hunt for alfresco drinks in London Bridge, check out Carrubo. Kick off your evening in the garden as you sling back a passionfruit martini or draught beer. Plus, you can munch on white crab and avocado crostinis while soaking up the sun.
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.
Featuring a private hire terrace, Omeara is a live music venue with pretty sky-high views of The Shard and Southwark Cathedral. Book this gorgeous haunt while checking out the venue's other hotspots such as Rae's, its burlesque-style space.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
You may have to travel the length of the district to see this absolute dime of a drinking space at Aeronaut, but by golly is the journey worth it. As one of London's best beer gardens, not only is it grand in size, but also in style, with circus-themed booths and festoon lighting.
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.
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.
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.
Alfresco sips? Yes, please. Make your way to 28-50 Wine Workshop & Kitchen in South Kensington for some lip-smacking bevvies in its gorgeous outdoor space. If you're hungry, be sure to check out the menu filled with mouthwatering French and modern European bites.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Looking for sips in the sun this summer? Head over to Old Street icon The Gibson where they're laying out the streetside tables so you can sample some of the creative and carefully curated cocktails in a pretty alfresco setting.
Fancy your alfresco drinks at a beaut beer garden in South London? Pratts and Payne is a stunning spot where you can settle down for a pint, 2-for-1 cocktails on Saturdays or Sunday roasts when you really fancy a piled-high plate.
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.
Wagtail 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.
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.
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.
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.
Casual coffee spot by day and bustling cocktail bar by night, Victoria's Timmy Green promises a luscious, leafy terrace where you can enjoy the fabulous selection of food and drinks come morning, noon or night.
Sat high above Waterloo, Bar Elba offers you island paradise vibes complete with sunny colours, panoramic views and a menu of over 20 different cocktails. Or, if you fancy, you can also tuck into a fabulous bottomless brunch from the rooftop.
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.
Go alfresco at Booking Office 1869, located in St Pancras station. Venture upstairs, where you'll be met with an Insta-worthy rooftop space, perfect for quaffing cocktails or delving into tasty eats. To top it off? You'll also be able to take in the gorgeous landmarks.
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.
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?
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.
Is the sun shining? Then you best head to The Bridge Greenford. This popular joint has a laid-back garden space that's ideal for quaffing ice-cold pints or a glass of pinot in the sunshine. On the food front, this spot has plenty of hearty options, from steak to Sunday roasts.
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.
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.
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.