Where To Drink Outside In London

In a city teeming with towering skyscrapers and traffic-jammed roads, it's no wonder that we regularly flock to the capital's alfresco areas for a bit of peace. But where can you find these gems? From rollicking rooftops with cracking cocktails to beaut beer gardens where refreshing pints reign supreme, here are the best places to drink outside in London.

Last edited by Kiera Chapman

Last updated on 21st November 2025




The Miller

Looking for a buzzing outdoor drinking destination in London Bridge? Located close to the station, The Miller boasts a spacious terrace, complete with picnic tables where you can soak up the sun. Here, you can enjoy locally brewed craft beer, from producers like Pressure Drop and Weird Beard.

This lively spot also hosts regular live entertainment, including a popular improv comedy night. And if you're feeling peckish, there's everything from sticky Asian-style chicken wings to double beef chimichurri burgers or vegan brisket loaded fries.

The Cyclist

This neighbourhood pub has plenty of room out front if you're looking for alfresco drinking. That's not all though, as The Cyclist in Balham serves a menu of elevated pub grub and small-batch gins to make your experience that much better, alongside stunning Saturday brunches and sumptuous Sunday roasts.

Babel Beerhouse

Craft beers in the sunshine? Babel Beerhourse is helping make that a reality at their King's Cross taproom. Grab a streetside table and sip on a range of quirky pints as you shoot the breeze with mates and soak up that vitamin D. Hungry? There are scrumptious small plates, handmade pizzas and burgers on offer too - think three beef chilli or mushroom and beetroot in those fully stacked buns.

London Bridge Rooftop

LBRT HAPPY HOUR and 1 other offer

With weekend DJ sets and gawp-worthy views of the Shard, London Bridge Rooftop is an obvious choice for outdoor drinking in Central London. From this epic rooftop spot, tuck into juicy gourmet burgers (paired with happy hour cocktails of course - hello £6 Aperol spritzes and £7 margaritas) or soak up the sunshine while listening to the live DJs.

It doesn't stop there, as this joint is also home to wicked bottomless brunches and interactive darts too.

The Pembroke, Primrose Hill

With signature cocktails like the Rose Blush Bliss or a Marmalade Mule, The Pembroke have your drinking needs all sewn up at their gorgeous Primrose Hill space. Head to their garden area to bathe in sunlight and surround yourself with greenery - plus there's a mouthwatering menu of chilli jam glazed sausages, steak pie, sweet potato falafel and much more.

Vicinity

Head to the Vicinity's terrace to uncover some of the capital's most spectacular views. This riverside joint sits in the shadow of Tower Bridge and serves up a delicious menu of street food-style eats, like burgers, falafels and pizza, alongside an impressive selection of cocktails, wines and Champagnes.

The Understudy

15% student discount, all day every day

Sitting pretty on London's vibrant South Bank, The Understudy is the ultimate riverside drinking den. They've teamed up with some of the UK's finest drinks producers - think Black Lines cocktails, Gipsy Hill Brewing, East London Liquor Co., and Nirvana Brewing - so every sip is a winner.

And when hunger strikes? KERB has hand-picked a trio of street food stars to keep things delicious. Meltdown Cheeseburgers is all about juicy patties and loaded fries, Sen Noods serves up slurp-worthy ramen and crispy gyoza, and Sireli brings Middle Eastern wraps and halloumi fries that are downright addictive. But the real showstopper? The riverside terrace. It's the perfect spot to sip in the sunshine, with uninterrupted Thames views and plenty of space for alfresco drinking. 

The Phene

The Phene in Chelsea prides itself on catering for all occasions. Whether you're gearing up for a huge night out or just fancy a lazy afternoon in the sun, this watering hole's foliage-adorned garden offers the perfect setting to wet the whistle. As for food, you can expect everything from chicken liver parfait to Dover sole and baked camembert at this picturesque spot.

Colour Factory

Colour Factory in Hackney Wick is a fabulous place to drink outside thanks to its south-facing terrace, making it a sun trap in warmer months. There are also heaters for when things cool down a little so you can get your lips around a pint of Neck Oil, a G&T or Aperol spritz without having to worry about the weather. There's always the opportunity to stay too, as this iconic music venue always has a selection of fantastic acts on throughout the weeks. 

Brixton Jamm

If you're looking for South London outdoor drinking spots, do not miss out on the chance to nab a table at The Brixton Courtyard. Offering regular socials that include live DJs, delicious street food and thirst-quenching tipples, it's one unique summer hangout. They even host quizzes themed around everything from Peep Show to The Lord Of The Rings here too.

Bondi Green

Sun, Sips & 25% Off Cocktails This Summer!

At Bondi Green, you can sip signature cocktails and fresh cold tank beer right by the water's edge. On the lively Regent's Canal footpath, its suntrap terrace is a popular spot whenever the sun is shining.

With a 120-strong list of Australian wines, most people aren't in a hurry to leave either. Whether you're here for a quick post-work pint or an all day sesh, there's woodfired pizzas, grilled specialities and small plates to fuel your fun.

Bunch of Grapes

London Bridge is a great location to grab a few pints outside, and Bunch of Grapes proves it. Hidden away down a side street, this chilled-out drinking den is perfect not only for British pints and plates but also its heated garden, found up a staircase and perfect for enjoying casual sandwiches and beers at lunchtime or juicy burgers later on.

Golden Lion Fulham

For those sun-soaked moments, head to the Golden Lion's crackin' garden in Fulham. Come rain or shine, this hub offers a waterproof space, alongside plenty of sunny areas for the warmer months. Better yet? There are also plenty of drinks and food deals all week long, including lunch for £6.75.

Bird House Brewery

£4 Pints Every Wednesday

Bird House Brewery offers one of South London's best-kept outdoor secrets. Their spacious, covered and heated beer garden is ideal for year-round alfresco drinking. Whether you're catching up with friends or enjoying one of their weekend DJ sets, this Herne Hill taproom is a relaxed and welcoming outdoor spot with great beer, cocktails, and a warm neighbourhood vibe just minutes from the station.

Back to Mine

Free Bottle of Prosecco and 2 other offers

Found in the heart of Exchange Square, Back to Mine is a quirky and colourful bar which boasts a huge heated terrace for alfresco drinking all year round. They've got two for one cocktails on offer from 12 'til 5pm every single day, and you won't want to miss out on their award-winning Lychee Martini. You can even nab tasty sharing plates while you're here, from charcuterie boards to baked camembert, as well as three for £22 small plates.

Hiver Taproom

Hiver Taproom is the buzzing heart of the Bermondsey Beer Mile, known for its award-winning honey beer and cider brewed with British ingredients and fermented with raw honeys for a smooth, distinctive taste. Set in a bright railway arch near Maltby Street Market, it boasts the largest beer garden on the mile and welcomes dogs and well-behaved children.

The taproom hosts a wide range of events, from beer tastings and workshops to karaoke nights and off-site beekeeping experiences, with private hire options for parties and launches. Whether you're sipping in the sunshine or joining the evening crowd, Hiver offers a warm, welcoming space full of flavour and fun.

The Elmhurst

When the sun's out, you'll want to head straight to The Elmhurst's massive pub garden. Tottenham's largest outdoor space is perfect for enjoying a cold beer, trying dishes from rotating food kitchens, or catching up with friends.

Kids and dogs are welcome too, so you can make it a full day out. With the iconic green taxi and plenty of space for outdoor games, you can sip, snack, and soak up the summer atmosphere in style.

Peggy Jean

Sun, Sips & 25% Off Cocktails This Summer!

If you love sipping cocktails on an outdoor terrace, Peggy Jean is just the thing for you. This is a permanently moored boat on the water in Richmond, with an open-air top deck providing amazing views of the area from under stylish pink umbrellas.

Whether you're coming for a few drinks in the evening or indulging in a bottomless brunch on the Thames, this is the perfect escape from London's busy streets.

Jin Bo Law

Complimentary Welcome Drinks For You! and 1 other offer

A favourite on the outdoor drinking scene, Jin Bo Law's stunning rooftop is fast becoming one of the best places for outdoor drinking in the City of London, especially if you like your bevs to be in bougie surrounds. Think live DJs, gorgeous views, amazing cocktails and snap-worthy interiors should the weather take a turn for the worse.

Royal Oak

If you're looking for outdoor drinking in East London, make sure to give Royal Oak a visit. Found on Columbia road, it's the perfect place to relax after visiting the famous flower market, with a pretty beer garden that boasts luscious foliage and plenty of seating. What's more, this peaceful spot serves juicy burgers, seasonal pies and veggie casseroles too.

Timmy Green

Sun, Sips & 25% Off Cocktails This Summer!

Timmy Green's leafy outdoor space makes it a top choice for drinking al fresco in Victoria.

Enjoy cocktails, wine, or sparkling tea options while nibbling on sharing plates, mini burgers, bao buns, or small bowls. The terrace is designed for socialising with ample seating, sun exposure, and heaters for cooler months, creating a versatile spot for casual meet-ups or celebratory drinks.

Queen of Hoxton

From tacos through to a themed rooftop that changes every season, if you haven't been to Queen of Hoxton yet, now's the time. The Shoreditch stalwart puts on a different theme every year, alongside bar snacks and cocktails that won't disappoint - we recommend the Rhubarb Fizz for gin lovers, or the Cookies And Cream for those who want to unleash their inner big kid.

Queen of Hoxton's rooftop is also your go-to winter escape, with a giant heated yurt, crackling fires, and sweeping East London views. Indulge in seasonal cocktails like the Tiramisu Espresso Martini and Spiced Clementine Margarita, and savour burgers, mac & cheese balls, and vegan delights. A Shoreditch icon, perfect for rooftop nights and starlit drinks.

Wagtail

Gorgeous views? Scrumptious eats? Killer cocktails? Wagtail Rooftop Bar & Restaurant is the rooftop bar that you need to have on your radar. Ascend to the heavens (otherwise known as the 9th and 10th floor) and soak up the cityscapes, as well as the sunshine, with cracking refreshments to hand. And if you fancy bottomless brunch? They offer that too, complete with two indulgent courses and a side.

The Ship

A favourite among locals and families alike, The Ship is one of the coolest pubs going. Not only can you sit alongside the water, but this mega beer garden in Walthamstow also has an outdoor bar and plenty of food options to go around - we're talking meat or plant-based burgers alongside roast dinners and brunch plates.

The Hawk's Nest

Margarita Cocktail + Margherita Pizza for £14.50 and 1 other offer

Nestled in the heart of Shepherd's Bush, The Hawk's Nest is a lively cocktail bar and kitchen that guarantees a fun night out. Its spacious, garden-style setting boasts lush greenery, twinkling fairy lights, and rustic exposed brickwork, with a fully retractable glass roof to cater to every kind of weather.

They serve up all kinds of cocktails and draught beer, with £4 pints available every Sunday. There are also tasty sourdough pizzas, and you can even nab a margarita cocktail and a margherita pizza for £14.50 Sunday to Friday, between 4 and 7pm. As for entertainment? Think quiz nights, board games, pool tables and more.

LONDON WING FEST 2026

@ London Stadium, on Friday 24th July 2026 and 2 other dates

Looking for the best outdoor drinks spot in London this summer? London Wing Fest 2026 delivers craft beers, bourbon tastings, and non-stop DJs, all from £25 per person.

With sunny beer gardens, picnic-style seating and views of the Olympic Park, it's the ultimate al fresco setting to sip, snack and soak up the vibes. Throw in £1.50 wings and live entertainment, and you've got yourself a great day. There's also the chance to try your hand at axe throwing too, all from the 24th to the 26th of July 2026.

Darcie & May Green

Sun, Sips & 25% Off Cocktails This Summer!

For outdoor drinking with character, Darcie & May Green ticks every box. Their open terrace overlooks Regent's Canal, offering a rare mix of waterfront peace and Paddington buzz.

Sip a peach bellini or limited-edition Daisy Fizz as colours reflect off the water and music drifts from the lower deck. It's one of the city's most scenic spots for a sundowner, and impossibly photogenic to boot.

Light Bar London

When you've got an itch that only an al fresco drink can scratch, the Light Bar is the place to head. With a suntrap terrace and heated backyard bar, even the Great British weather can't stand in your way.

Open day and night, the garden is the perfect place to settle in for quick drink or an all day session of craft beer and cocktails. When it's time to refuel, the kitchen serves up small plates, flatbreads, steaks and plenty more.

Mare Street Market Kings Cross

Looking for a sunny spot to sip your favourite drink in Kings Cross? Head to Mare Street Market, where you can enjoy your cocktails or craft beers in the open-air area.

The relaxed vibe, combined with its outdoor seating, makes it the perfect spot to catch up with friends or just enjoy a laid-back afternoon drink in the fresh air. With a diverse selection of drinks and a fantastic atmosphere, it's one of the best outdoor drinking spots around.

Smith's Bar & Grill

Sunday Roast. and 22 other offers

The perfect pitstop after a stroll down the Grand Union Canal, Smith's Bar & Grill's outdoor terrace boasts gorgeous views and beautiful floral installations. Sip on a range of cocktails or dig into a selection of premium steaks and burgers, while you can stop by for their bottomless brunches or live DJ sets on Friday nights as well.

Bubba Oasis Islington

Alpine Hour Bottomless Dinner and 1 other offer

Positively drenched in sunshine during the summer months, Bubba Oasis's rooftop bar is a popular place for drinking outside in North London. Wander over for banging bottomless brunches, alfresco cocktails and late-night parties showcasing the city's top DJs and performers - and you can even nab two courses for £16 from Monday to Wednesday.

Peckham Arches

Happy Hour

Heated and covered all year round, Peckham Arches is a great choice for outdoor drinking no matter the weather. This vibrant venue boasts a 200 capacity terrace, where you'll often find DJ sets and other fun events taking place.

These guys serve up killer cocktails, alongside fresh tank beer from Bird House Brewery. They also offer tasty LA-style tacos, filled with the likes of birria beef, Baja cod and oyster mushrooms.

The Bolingbroke

Situated on the charming Northcote Road in Clapham, The Bolingbroke is a charming, modern pub that features lots of different spaces for drinking and dining. They've also got a selection of outdoor tables, where you can soak up the sun while sipping cask ales or lagers.

If you're feeling peckish, there's all sorts of gastro fare to be enjoyed. Think pan-roasted whole plaice, juicy rib steak burgers or Devonshire potted crab, as well as some of the best Sunday roasts around.

The Avalon

Looking for an alfresco drinking spot in South West London? Then head to The Avalon, a charming pub in Balham. They mix both modern and rustic decor here, while the beer garden is filled with gorgeous greenery, wooden furniture and twinkling lights.

Soak up the sun while sipping a cocktail, or opt for a refreshing beer instead. Hungry? Tuck into everything from beer-battered hake and chips to chorizo and goat's cheese pizzas or a beef brisket burger.