Where To Drink Outside In London

Hope & Anchor is a mega Brixton pub with a glorious garden out back. Ideal whatever the weather, it boasts sun-drenched picnic tables during the warmer months, plus a bunch of heated spaces for when winter hits. It's ideal for both the beer and burger-hungry south of the river, with plenty of live sports on show as well.

Exale Brewery is one of the best places to drink outside in East London, bringing you a huge courtyard right in front of its taproom. Shimmy on over to make your way through the fab choice of freshly made pints alongside cocktails, wines and Scottish food from Auld Hag.

From DJ-led, late-night parties to brunches filled with drag queens, The Exhibit has got it all, including - you guessed it - a pretty outdoor terrace. If you're near Balham, you can't beat this affordable boozer when the sun's out - especially if you bag 2 for 1 cocktails during their happy hours, from 4 'til 7pm Wednesday to Sunday.

Flaunting a massive garden that spills into Victoria Park, People's Park Tavern has one of the best outdoor drinking areas in London. Along with numerous picnic tables for sunbathing and drinking, there are banging barbecue bites to be devoured - from blue cheese buffalo wings to tasty burgers with rosemary salted fries.

Signature Brew Blackhorse Road is home to a huge brewery yard, perfect for summer sipping. Located just a five minute stroll from Blackhorse Road Station, the modern taproom, and its Haggerston sister, regularly plays host to live musicians and tasty street food vendors.

The Prince is a must for those of you who fancy venturing outside. It's lovely all year round, as when winter comes to an end, the large retractable roof makes way for a gorgeous, green-fingered outdoor area, complete with street food and tasty tipples, as well as barbecue specials every single Sunday.

Thought Flight Club was just a haven for social darts? Oh no, the Victoria outpost also happens to feature one of the best rooftop bars in Central London. Take your mates for a quirky night out complete with games, drinks and dining before ascending to the terrace for some alfresco cocktails.

Looking for a sunny beer garden to while away those summer afternoons in? Then head to The Black Lion in West Hampstead, where their outdoor terrace has got plenty of space for relaxing with a pint or two. There's a range of craft beer and cocktails on offer here, as well as a tasty menu of chicken and leek pot pie, blackened Cajun cod, miso aubergine salad and much more.

Strongroom Bar and Kitchen is part of a legendary recording studio and is one of the best places to drink outdoors in London. Offering a cool and quirky escape from the bustling city, this watering hole is not to be slept on come summer. And if you're hungry? Expect halloumi fries, nachos and a cracking selection of meat or veggie burgers.

Summer On The Square, found at The Botanist, Sloane Square offers the ultimate getaway right here in the city. Not only can you enjoy the beautifully verdant and laid-back surrounds, but also gin cocktails, bottomless brunches and Mediterranean-style small plates. You can even nab bottomless brunches here too.

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.

If you're looking for places to drink outside in South London, Northcote Records is a firm choice. Nestled between Clapham and Battersea, this cool neighbourhood bar fronts live music, cocktails and stonebaked pizza, with an expansive beer garden for the warmer months. 

Located in Kingston Upon Thames, Boaters is a brilliant watering hole. Overlooking the river, the outdoor bar flaunts ambient lighting, cosy seating and pints aplenty. And if you get hungry, we recommend getting some gastro grub - the seared scallops are divine. And did we mention that this place is dog-friendly too?

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.

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.

Stylishly designed by Russell Sage Studio, the rooftop terrace at Aviary Rooftop Bar & Restaurant is a mix of laid-back sofas and incredible views alongside pretty igloos for when the temperatures drop. As for drinks, you can find a collection of cocktails and wines to quench your thirst, and you can even nab bottomless brunches and Sunday roasts among all the other delicious dishes here.

What's better than craft beer? Drinking it in one of the best alfresco bars in London, that's what. The Union Tavern is shaking things up in Notting Hill with canalside vibes and a brilliant selection of pints on tap, as well as everything from pulled pork tacos to loaded fries and beer-battered haddock on the menu.

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.

Boasting a huge outdoor terrace that's great for summer drinks, Feed the Yak can be found in Elephant Park. They've even got screens outside, so you can maintain the sports bar atmopshere and catch all the biggest events while you're here.

They showcase some of the very best local independent beers, including 15 taps and countless cans or bottles from their fridges. And with a new kitchen residency every six months, you can sample a wide range of food as well.

Take your alfresco drinks to the next level, as this Clapham outpost of Vagabond brings you a stunning outdoor terrace lined with candlelit tables and fairy lights hanging overhead. Soak up over 100 wines accompanied by tapas-style small plates, charcuterie, steak and more.

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.

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.

Hidden behind London Bridge station, Vinegar Yard is a cool drinking and dining destination. It boasts a number of street food vendors (think Nanny Bills, Bad Boy Pizza Society and more), as well as a refreshing range of beers, ciders and tasty cocktails across multiple bars.

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.

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.

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.

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.

If you're looking for the best places to drink outside in South London, check out Leadbelly's Bar in Rotherhithe. Offering an all-day menu of fresh, seasonal dishes that range from sharing platters to hearty burgers and grilled goods, this is one winning joint for boozy lunches and dinners. 

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.

Sporting two gorgeous outdoor drinking areas, The Sun Inn is the Barnes pub that's ready and waiting to host you this summer. The beautiful boozer is a hotspot for craft beers, Sunday roasts and plenty of open-air antics, with a covered area too to protect you from the unreliable British weather.

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.

One of the best rooftops to drink at this spring and summer, the alfresco terrace at 14 Stories is the stuff sunny daydreams are made of. Visit the Fenchurch Street haunt for seafood feasts and sharing steaks washed down with quality cocktails and Champagne, while looking out over the city from what's known as 'the forest in the sky'.

Head to this hidden Knightsbridge gem for an afternoon of alfresco drinks in a luxurious setting. Along with a stunning cocktail menu, The Hari Hotel Bar & Terrace also sports a retractable roof, so you're guaranteed to stay dry in all weather. Perfect for date night, they offer a cracking choice of wine and Champagne too.

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, tucking into hearty burgers 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.

An all new pop up has opened at London Bridge City Pier. You may know this spot as the Glasshouses or Summer by the River, but this summer, it's relaunching as The Clubhouse.

Pull up a pew by the water and you can watch the world go by as you soak up the sun. To keep you refreshed along the way, there's sensational spritzes, perfectly poured pints and plenty more besides.

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.

Showcasing one of the most bustling beer gardens in East London, The Three Compasses is simply perfect for a spot of day drinking. The classic British boozer offers plenty of space on its terrace, alongside fresh craft pints and gut-busting burgers.

One of the best places for outdoor drinking in South London, Vauxhall Food & Beer Garden is absolutely massive. Get on down to this sprawling hangout for draught beer, cocktails and wine alongside international street food vendors and live sports screenings - they even run a comedy club here too.

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.

A stunning spot on the banks of the Thames, The Banker raises the bar on the humble pub garden. On its gorgeous rooftop terrace, you can sip your favourite tipples with epic views across the river. 

If you need something to soak up the sauce, you're in luck. The dishes here are dreamy, from the crispy squid and ox cheek ragout to the Greek meze platters.

Spend a luxurious afternoon soaking up the sunshine at The Montague on The Gardens Hotel. Situated opposite the British Museum, this beautiful terrace is offering everything from afternoon tea and alfresco meals, like steaks or risotto, to expertly crafted cocktails.

For fab alfresco drinking, check out Effra Social in Brixton. Relax in its spacious beer garden with a delicious pint in hand or check out its food menu for modern European cuisine - think scampi with chips, plant-based burgers and a whole load of small plates at three for £21.

When it comes to outdoor drinking in Brixton, The Duke Of Edinburgh is always on hand. From premium sunshine spots to bookable booths and covered benches, it's a local favourite and a must-try on the capital's beer garden scene. They also boast happy hours 'til 7pm every weekday and coverage of all the biggest sporting events.

Looking for an alfresco tipple? Head up to the roof at Bar Arriba for a taste of Mexico.

There's all sorts to wet your whistle here, from ice cold beers and worldly wines to mezcal, tequila and casa cocktails like the Arriba Spicy Margarita. To soak up all that sauce, there's an extensive menu packed with tostadas, tacos and quesadillas.

Home to a fun outdoor space surrounded by hanging lights, Pub On The Park is watering hole with a lot of character. Located on the corner of London Fields, it slings out fresh pints aplenty alongside delicious food and a seriously slap-up selection of Sunday roasts. What's more, you can catch all the big sporting events here too.

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.

Seeking out the best places for outdoor drinking in North London? This beer garden in Highgate offers a tranquil escape for summertime drinking and dining. Pop over to The Gatehouse for freshly poured pints, pretty surroundings and Spanish-inspired plates like mushroom croquettas, cured meats and salt cod fritters.

Meander through one of South London's coolest markets and you'll find Pergola Brixton. This leafy jungle is a haven for alfresco drinks with mates, dates and the like, both during summer and winter, thanks to the outdoor heaters. Hungry? These guys also offer Mexican food from Jalisco - think tacos galore.

Be sure to visit The Rosy Hue's outdoor terrace, a real suntrap that's surrounded by greenery. This Elephant and Castle hotspot is a great place to chill out with friends while sipping on bevvies. If you've worked up an appetite, then tuck into some hearty fare, from burgers to calamari, or join in this their quiz nights every single Sunday.

If you're looking for a lively drinking destination to add to your list, check out The Burlington Arms for fabulous food and tipples – think burgers, steak and a variety of small plates. And best of all? You can eat outside and grab a few pints while soaking up the sun.

Boasting one of the best beer gardens in North London, the Abbey Tavern is a must-visit for any of you looking to get a side order of fresh air with your drinks. Located in the middle of Kentish Town, there's a sprawling outdoor space and rooftop terrace for all of your alfresco drinking needs.

Come rain or shine, Founders Arms is a great spot for outdoor drinks near London Bridge. Boasting fabulous views of St. Pauls and the Thames, this popular boozer is a spiffing location to catch up with friends while soaking up the stunning city views, with steaks, burgers and pies up for grabs too.

Settle into the streetside terrace at Dynamic Vines to work your way through a carefully curated selection of biodynamic European wines. Take your pick of red, white, rose and orange tipples from independent winemakers who prioritise sustainable vineyard practices and minimal intervention in the cellar.

As you savour every sip alfresco, you can please your palate with cheese and charcuterie boards. Any wines caught your attention? Grab a bottle or two to take home.

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.

For one of the best places for outside drinking in London, make sure to give The King of Prussia a visit. The Finchley boozer is home to a gorgeous terrace that has a retractable roof and toasty heaters - perfect for England's unpredictable climes. They have some fab deals on the cards here too, whether it's 2 for 1 gin every Friday or discount pizzas come Monday.

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.

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. 

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.

One of the best places for alfresco drinking in London has to be The Rose in Lewisham. Found a short walk from New Cross Gate station, this pub's sprawling outside seating area is always buzzing in summer months, made even better by the top-quality list of craft beers on the roster.

After a gorgeous hub where you can drink outside? Here's where Rotunda's alfresco terrace comes in. Step outdoors at this gorgeous venue, where you'll get to quaff tequila-based cocktails from local brands, all while chowing down on Mexican-inspired plates like beef brisket chilli, sharing steaks and chargrilled asparagus.

A gorgeous terrace in the heart of Clapham, Hannah is one of our top picks for alfresco sipping south of the river. The quirky bar has a 'pour your own' policy, offering 48 self-dispense wines for you to try, all while you bask in the sun's beaming rays. And if you're in need of affordable eats, these guys are slinging out £1 wings on Tuesdays or Wednesdays and £15 steaks come Thursday.

For those of you who are looking to quaff bevvies outside in a laid-back setting, Queen's Head Hammersmith has the ideal beer garden for you. Venture outside, to enjoy a fabulous range of ice-cold beers and concoctions, all before digging into the moreish gastro menu of charcuterie boards, pan-roasted lamb, aubergine tagine and more.

Looking for a beautiful beer garden for your next drinking session? The Adam & Eve in East London has just the ticket. The outdoor area is a total suntrap in the summer and is covered in the winter, so it's a top spot for all seasons. They show live sport here too, and you can tuck into delicious Greek dishes while you watch.

If you're after thirst-quenching drinks with delicious British dishes to pair, venture over to Hackney Wick where this waterside boat gives you gorgeous views in a unique setting. From the fairy lights to the quirky location, Barge East has it all. You can feel good about yourself while eating here too, as head chef Stefano Camplone is all about sustainability.

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.

Located just a stone's throw away from Arnos Grove station, The Arnos Arms is a gorgeous country-style pub with a sprawling terrace area. Pop over in the summer for sun-soaked sips before heading into the tent to warm up by the electric heaters, where you can tuck into burgers, sausage and mash or small plates as well.

Located in the vibrant area of Camden, The Colonel Fawcett has two outdoor spaces to choose from as well as an impressive range of gins, beers and wines. Book a table and meet your mates here for a balmy afternoon of imbibing in the sunshine, with an extensive pizza menu to keep you fuelled and bottomless lunches on the weekend.

It might not be by the sea, but that hasn't stopped The Leather Bottle's beach huts from winning us over in both summer and winter. The Earlsfield pub has a whopper of a beer garden, which is also available for private functions if you fancy going all out. Swinging by on a Monday? Don't miss out on their weekly pub quiz.

The Whippet Inn is the Kensal Rise pub boasting not one, but two gorgeous outdoor spaces. Whether you're parked out front with pints to watch the world go by or holed up in the pretty beer garden, you'll surely agree that it's one of the best places to drink outside in West London.

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.

If you're looking for a spot for an alfresco tipple, take a wander down Cowcross Street in Farringdon. At The Fence, you'll find one of the best beer gardens around these parts. 

As you soak up the sun on the street terrace, you can sip on everything from ice cold pints to wines and cocktails. There's plenty to nibble on too, from chicken wings and sandwiches to pizza and traditional pub grub.

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. 

You'd never know from just looking at it, but The Victoria in Mile End houses a tucked-away beer garden that's ideal for summer sipping. Head out back to the walled space and you'll find heaters, wooder booths, decorative greenery and fun vibes - with a cracking choice of wine, beer and cocktails available from the bar.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.