Where To Drink Outside in London

There's just something about drinking alfresco that we can't resist. If you're after thirst-quenching drinks with delicious British dishes, head to Hackney Wick where this waterside barge gives you gorgeous views in a unique setting. From the fairy lights to the quirky location, Barge East has it all.

Part traditional pub- part fun-loving bar, The Phene in Chelsea prides itself on catering for whatever mood you might be in. Whether you're gearing up for a huge night out at the traditional bar, enjoying a lazy weekend in a cosy armchair or enjoy a traditional 3-course gastro-pub dinner, the Phene won't disappoint. Better still, when the sun decides to make an appearance, the venue's serene garden comes to life. 

With one of Fulham's largest gardens, The Courtyard is a sure winner. Inspired by our favourite childhood tales, the decor's on the quirky side and there's also a great bottomless brunch.

If you're serious about street food and wouldn't mind a drink outside when you're scoffing some, you can't get much better than Dinerama in Shoreditch. Bringing you a world of food options alongside cocktails and pints, it's perfect for when the sun finally shows its face.

A favourite among locals and families alike, The Ship is one of the coolest pubs in South London. Not only can you sit alongside the water, this mega beer garden has an outdoor bar and plenty of food options to go around.

It might not be by the sea but nonetheless The Leather Bottle's beach huts are winning us over. The Earlsfield pub has a whopper of a beer garden, which is also available for private functions.

From tasty salmon blinis and meaty bresaola to a vast selection of wines and ice cold beers, this South Kensington favourite is the perfect spot for eating and drinking outside in London.

With an outdoor space that looks more like a fairground than any beer garden you've ever seen before, this is one of the best outside drinking spots in London. A perfect sun trap in summer, but with plenty of covered booths to huddle under when the rainy months arrive, it's an ideal location for fans of al fresco drinking and dining. 

What's better than craft beer? Craft beer in one of London's outdoor drinking spaces. The Union Tavern is right beside the canal and also has a brilliant selection of craft beers on tap.

Part of Paradise Row, London Cocktail Club is one of Bethnal Green's hottest stretches of outdoor space. Tucked under the railway arches, the party bar has an outdoor terrace, perfect for making the most of the generous weekend happy hour.

From a cinema to brunches filled with drag queens, The Exhibit has got it all, including - you guessed - a killer terrace. If you're near Balham, you can't beat this affordable boozer when the sun's out.

Based around the theme of Napoleon's exile, the 600-capacity Bar Elba is London's own little party island. With awesome cocktails and epic views of the Thames, this Waterloo rooftop bar is a perfect outside drinking space in London. 

There are cute pop-ups in London, and then there's the Midnight Apothecary. Perfect for those that want to drink among the greenery, this cutesy cocktail spot is perfect for outside drinks, with marshmallows around the fire come sundown.

Hidden under the railway arches of Hackney Wick, Night Tales really is a gem in London's nightlife community. With a large outdoor space that opens up at the back, the venue is home to a selection of stunning street food vendors, cocktail bars and live music. 

Who knew shipping containers could be so sexy? Pop Brixton did, that's who. The South London hangout is sporting a huge variety of street food traders, retail boutiques and bars, meaning you've got plenty of choice when you're looking to drink outside in London.

A newbie on the outdoor drinking spaces in London, but a goodie, this rooftop bar in Liverpool Street is inspired by Asia. Tuck into gorgeous London views, amazing cocktails and snap-worthy interiors should the weather take a turn for the worse.

One of Hackney Wick's hottest spots for an outdoor drink or three, Crate Bar & Pizzeria aren't just bringing you slices and serious craft pints, their outside tables are sat perfectly alongside the canal.

When it's not busy keeping us up until the early hours, Cargo in Shoreditch is keeping us hydrated in the sunshine. Check into their outdoor drinking space to check out foosball tables, BBQs and some cool East London vibes.

From outdoor cinema through to an Elvis themed rooftop, if you haven't been to Queen of Hoxton yet, what have you been doing?! The Shoreditch stalwart puts on a different theme every season, alongside always great bar snacks and cocktails.

Not many think that London Bridge is a great place to grab a few pints outside, but they'd be wrong. Hidden away down a side-street, join Bunch of Grapes not only for British pints and plates but a heated garden should you want to head outside. 

Offering another top-notch option for city drinkers is Aviary in Finsbury Sqaure. The rooftop bar and restaurant is the latest offering from the ETM group; stylishly designed by Russell Sage Studio, the terrace is a mix of laid back sofas and incredible views. If you get peckish, head to the glass-encased restaurant for a hearty British fare.

It might not be Venice but hell we'll take it - Hackney Wick is teeming with waterside vibes and people once the sun's out. Try Shane's on Canalside for foraged dishes, a great brunch menu and sunshine-perfect Aperol Spritzes.

Head to the Vicinity terrace where you'll find one of London's most spectacular views. This riverside spot sits in the shadow of Tower Bridge and serves up a delicious menu of street food-inspired eats, alongside an impressive selection of cocktails, wines and Champagnes.

While Omeara has a cool gig venue and a Mexican cantina inside, the outside space is worth visiting all on its own. Head outside once there and you'll be greeted to beautiful views of the Shard and Southwark Cathedral, all while you sip one of their great cocktails.

With a beer garden the size of a small park, this pub (next to the much loved Victoria Park) has one of the best outdoor drinking spaces in London, and definitely the best al fresco dining in East London. Along with numerous tables for drinking, eating and whiling away the summer months, there's also a whole crazy golf pitch to have a go on. 

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 with tapas-style small plates, charcuterie, steak and more.

Hackney Wick is a world of wide open spaces and cute canals, making Number 90 the perfect example of what's going on in the area. Boasting late DJ nights alongside brunch dishes and cocktails, sit out on the terrace and watch the barges roll by.