Searching for the best beer gardens in the City of London? Between the suits and skyscrapers, this central hotspot hides a surprisingly strong lineup of alfresco drinking spots. From tucked-away courtyards to sprawling rooftop terraces, the Square Mile is packed with places where you can swap the office for an outdoor table and a well-earned pint.
Whether you’re planning post-work drinks, a sunny lunch break or a full-blown evening session under the city skyline, there’s no shortage of options. Think historic pubs with secret gardens, sleek bars with terrace seating and buzzing social spaces perfect for groups. Dive into our guide to discover where to drink outside in one of the capital’s busiest areas, regularly updated with the best options recommended by us.
Nestled under the iconic Gherkin, The Sterling is a sophisticated bar that shifts effortlessly with the seasons. When the sun's out, its massive outdoor terrace is nothing short of a suntrap.
Get down here to soak up the sights and sounds of the city as you sip sophisticated cocktails and ice cold beers. If you need a nibble along the way, there's everything from bar snacks and sandwiches to succulent steaks, hearty pasta and delicate seafood.
In the heart of Bishopsgate, NEST is a top spot in the city for drinks and dining. Expect expertly crafted cocktails, a wide selection of craft beers, wines and spirits, and a carefully curated food menu.
Outside on the stunning terrace, you'll get sweeping views of the city. For something even more exclusive, head up to the private Nest Balcony area with a bird's-eye view of the bar below.
Popular for outdoor lunches, after‑work drinks, summer parties and group get togethers, The Saint's spacious courtyard offers a rare open‑air spot right in the heart of the Square Mile.
When the sun is shining, the outdoor space comes alive with DJ sets, pop‑ups, games, and branded takeovers.
Savage Garden is one of London's best-kept-secret skyline bars. At 12 floors up, you'll get great views of the city with your delicious drinks.
Out on the balcony, you can look out over some of the capital's most legendary landmarks, like The Shard and the Tower of London with a steady stream of dramatic cocktails and decadent bites.
Just moments from Bank Station's Cannon Street exit, The Vintry is a firm favourite among City professionals. Whether you're planning a business lunch, after-work drinks, or a relaxed catch-up with friends, this place has got your back.
Hidden away on a back alley, there's plenty of space on the street terrace to watch the world go by with a tipple or two. There's a mighty impressive wine list too, packed with Burgundy reds, British sparkling, Californian Chardonnay, Australian Shiraz, and everything in between.
More of a wine harden than a beer garden, Vagabond St Paul's serves up a gorgeous streetside terrace. Right in Paternoster Square, it's perfect for a pitstop when sightseeing or well-earned drinks after a day at work.
Whatever brings you here, there's plenty to keep you refreshed along the way. We're talking delicious self-pour wines and bougie bar snacks.
Nestled in the shadow of St. Paul's Cathedral, The Happenstance is a hidden summer sanctuary. Expect lush florals, candlelit corners and a truly gorgeous alfresco terrace that stakes a claim to being the best beer garden in the City of London.
As the sun sets, the energy shifts, and the bar comes alive with after-work gatherings, date nights and private parties - all against the dramatic backdrop of London's most iconic cathedral.
Between Fleet Street and Chancery Lane, The Refinery New Street Square has got a gorgeous alfresco terrace expanding onto the main square. Perfect for summer evenings, you can unwind here with ice cold beers, cracking cocktails and delicious nibbles.
The inside is just as dreamy too. Expect beautiful furnishings, an open plan bar with floor-to-ceiling windows that flood it with natural light.
Paradise Green takes you on a journey across three distinct rooms - Sunrise, Sunset, and Bank Vaults - all inspired by Surfers Paradise on Queensland's Gold Coast. But when the sun is shining, there's only one place you'll want to be.
The large outdoor terrace is perfect for catching some rays in the heart of the city. Wherever you pull up a pew, there's plenty to keep you refreshed, from ice cold beers to creative cocktails.
