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 24th September 2024




The Three Compasses

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.

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.

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.

Hannah

Bottomless Drinks 🥂 and 1 other offer

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.

Wagtail Rooftop Bar & Restaurant

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.

Pergola Brixton

2-4-1 On selected drinks and 4 other offers

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 street food gale, whether you're in the mood for award-winning barbecue wings, indulgent pasta plates, gourmet burgers or authentic Japanese bites.

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 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.

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.

Back to Mine

Free Bottle of Prosecco and 1 other offer

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.

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.