On the hunt for the best beer gardens in Hackney? You’re seriously spoiled for choice. This east London borough is home to everything from canalside hangouts in Hackney Wick to leafy pub terraces in Stoke Newington and buzzing courtyard bars in Dalston. Whether you’re chasing sunshine with a crisp pint or settling in for a long, lazy session with friends, Hackney knows exactly how to do outdoor drinking right.
Expect sprawling gardens overlooking parks, industrial-chic yards tucked behind warehouses and waterside spots where you can sip with a view. From laid-back locals to party-ready venues, we’ve rounded up the best beer gardens across Hackney, Haggerston, Shoreditch and beyond loved by the locals—so you can make the most of every sunny moment.
Find out more about how we create our guides in our Editorial Policy.
A friendly pub that has been around for generations, The Crown has got a strong community following. It's split across two connected spaces, with a large, courtyard-style beer garden to boot.
There's plenty going on here, from live music and DJs to bingo, karaoke and live sports. Plus, their toasties are pretty legendary.
One of the top music venues in the whole city, Sebright Arms in Bethnal Green has hosted performances by everyone from Charli XCX to Catfish and the Bottlemen and The Vaccines over the years. And, more importantly, they've also got a sunny outdoor space to relax in.
Check out their range of events, from karaoke to pool competitions and quiz nights. And when hunger strikes, you can order from Yard Sale Pizza.
Recently re-opened after a 20-year closure, Lord Napier & Star is found close to Hackney Wick station. The unique exterior is covered in graffiti, and their beer garden at the back is also adorned with street art and foliage. Plus, they've even got a spacious roof terrace too.
Grab a seat in the sun and sip one of their refreshing pints, and check out their street food-style menu from Oh My Dog!. We're talking hot dogs, burgers, fish goujons and much more.
A Norwegian-run pub situated just above Victoria Park, The Kenton is a unique venue filled with bold colours and Tv screens showing live sports. They also host regular live music and DJ sets, with a spacious, bright beer garden to boot.
There are 13 beers and ales on tap, as well as their signature Viking drink made with the Norwegian schnapps “Akkevit”.
Boasting a gorgeous, canalside Hackney Wick beer garden, The Lock Inn is a charming neighbourhood pub with a welcoming feel to it. There's all sorts going on here, from traditional Irish live music to darts and quizzes, as well as sports screenings.
They serve a wide range of cocktails and craft beer from local breweries - alongside scrumptious homemade pizzas, burgers and Sunday roasts.
Found in the centre of Columbia Road, Royal Oak is a beloved local boozer full of traditional charm. Their pretty beer garden features lots of greenery, as well as wooden tables and white brick walls that create an aesthetic feel.
On top of a wide range of drinks, you can get your hands on delicious dishes like fish and chips, pie and mash or a stellar Sunday roast.
A beloved Dalston pub with a big personality, The Black Eel is a true East End legend. They serve a wide array of refreshing pints, alongside Mediterranean plates like hot honey pork ribs, steamed mussels and garlic-marinated mushrooms.
Their sunny courtyard features brick walls, wooden tables and outdoor lights, with a few covered tables to suit all weathers.
A trendy, courtyard-style beer garden in the heart of Hackney Wick, Beer Merchants Tap's outdoor space is full of long tables that are perfect for groups. As their name suggests, these guys are known for their beer, with 20 taps, two cask pumps and more than 500 bottles and cans in rotation.
You can find brews from all over the world, from Britain to Norway and Belgium. And only a minute away from the Overground Station, the location couldn't be more convenient.
Perched right on the edge of London Fields park, Pub On The Park is a lively spot that's one of the most loved pub gardens in Hackney neighbourhoods. There's plenty of space outside for people to drink and dine in the sun, with several different beers, wines and spirits to choose from.
Feeling peckish? Get stuck into plates like spiced cauliflower tacos, pulled pork buns, steak frites and much more.
Flaunting 10 giant tanks pouring 10 different beers, Howling Hops Tank Bar is the place to be for great quality craft brews made fresh on-site. It features a huge beer hall-style indoor space, alongside a spacious garden full of long tables.
There's live music every Friday, and vinyl DJs on Saturdays. What's more, they've got a menu of Latin-fusion food from La Cumbia, including black bean quesadillas, crispy cauliflower burritos and chicken tinga tacos.
Flaunting streetside tables at the front and a roomy beer garden out back, Clapton Hart has got you covered for outdoor seating. This friendly boozer has been around since the 18th century, serving the local community for generations.
There's an extensive choice of beer on offer, as well as a hearty menu. Dig into everything from double cheeseburgers to aubergine and mozzarella bakes or spicy chicken wings.
Nestled right on the edge of Victoria Park, People's Park Tavern is a beer-focused pub that's been a local favourite for some time. Their sprawling beer garden extends into the park itself, making for an idyllic summer destination where you can soak up the sun.
Their craft beer selection is excellent, with bars both indoors and outdoors. When hunger strikes, you can get stuck into everything from jerk chicken to sticky barbecue ribs and beetroot burgers.
Ever fancied having a drink on a boat? With Barge east, you can. This 125-year-old Dutch barge is permanently moored on the River Lee in Hackney Wick, complete with lots of outdoor seating where you can look out over the water as you sip - as well as gardens on the bank.
The owners are committed to sustainability, serving a menu made with seasonal, local ingredients. Think corn-fed chicken polenta, miso cauliflower, British asparagus tacos and more - with lots of refreshing drinks on the side.
With possibly the best beer garden in Hackney, overlooking the River Lea, Two More Years is a cool bar, restaurant and community space housed inside the former Stour Space - which they saved from demolition. It's run by an independent team who are passionate about sustainability, bringing you a brilliant day or night out while caring for the planet.
They often host live music here, though it's also a great spot for chilling out with a few afternoon drinks by the water. Kitchen residents Lucky Chip are bringing you a range of delicious burgers too, as well as nachos, wings and hot honey halloumi.
A must-visit for beer lovers, 40ft Brewery is known for its distinctive craft beer. There are a wide range of different drinks to choose from, whether it's crisp lagers or robust stouts, and they're fully committed to quality in every step of the process.
There's a huge amount of outdoor space to relax in, in a courtyard filled with shipping container-style bars.
A vibrant pub and live music venue in Dalston, The Shacklewell Arms is spread across three different spaces. They've got a covered and heated courtyard, with a quirky Brazilian-kiosk theme to it.
There are all kinds of events to check out here - from football screenings to guest DJs and sets from local bands.
Housed inside a former print factory, Crate Bar & Pizzeria opens out into a wonderful canalside beer garden. This is Hackney Wick's first craft brewery and pizzeria all in one, serving a wide range of brews like CRATE lager, pale, IPA, session IPA and cider.
While looking out over the water, you can tuck into tasty slices, topped with everything from Middle Eastern lamb to red onion, courgette and feta.
