Summertime Bars in London
Whether it's a fun afternoon in the city or just somewhere to make the most of the lighter hours, make sure you're enjoying the sun with a tall pint in a beer garden, cruising down one of London's many canals on a boat bar, or taking in in the rays on a rooftop. Check out our recommendations for some great summertime bars in London and enjoy that golden beauty while it's still around.
Last updated on 13th July 2022
This tavern has got the jubilant good vibes that England only lets slip from under its stiff upper lip in summer time. That's because beer gardens this good make even the most prim and proper British gentleman want to kick back, crack open a beer and get chatting to the people on the next table along.
Margarita Cocktail + Margherita Pizza for £12.50 and 1 other offer
Tucked away in Shepherd's Bush Market, The Hawk's Nest is a gorgeous outdoor drinking and dining spot that's packed with botanical touches. Here, you can sip your way through a menu of pizza and cocktails, or play pool and catch a live event.
Tucked under the arches of Hackney Central, Night Tales is one of the city's most beloved venues. Head on over during the summer and you'll find a stunning outdoor space selling a fine selection of London's best street eats, a terrace that's perfect for drinking and dancing and plenty of live music all evening long.
All of this world-cup business and the unavoidable beautiful shots of Brazil that comes with it are making us itch for sunnier pastures. For those of us that can't afford to shell out for a plane to some beautiful Latin city where the BBQ is always cooking and the cocktails are always flowing, Barrio Shoreditch is a more than adequate substitute for the real thing.
One of the most unmissable bars in London, Skylight in Tobacco Dock boasts 12,500 square feet of outdoor space, as well as some sunny sips. You can also check out its Peckham location, which is equally as inviting with its ambience.
If sipping on a refreshing beer, watching the world and the water go by floats your boat, then make sure to visit The Union Tavern. Brilliant for hot summer days and after work drinks; its foliage-filled, umbrella shaded terrace won't disappoint. Head on down for a jaunt by the canal, and get to grips with London's favourite hobby: drinking in the summer sunshine. It isn't hard to master, we promise.
Step aboard the Canal Party Club boat for a fun-time day out with your nearest and dearest. Aside from the captain, you're welcome to bring your own food, booze and music with you to really make a day of it as you enjoy a leisurely cruise down the Regent's Canal. Worried about bad weather ruining the fun? Don't be! The boat comes with transparent covers and a heater.
10% discount on private dining for bookings in July & August and 1 other offer
If the sun's shining? Head along to Kindred on Queen Caroline Street in Hammersmith. This gorgeous venue is home to a swoon-worthy garden space that's perfect for drinks with pals or that sultry date night. If you're thirsty, enjoy its fabulous selection of bespoke concoctions.
The Gun is a spooky one. It can read our minds. It knows exactly what we dream about on chilly winter nights... the spectacular river-side views, bright parasols, seaside lounge chairs, and cheerful bunting blowing in a cool, wistful breeze. It's got it all. So if you want to visit the soothsayer of British pubs and have your dreams of summer-time materialize before your very eyes then head down to The Gun.