The big day is finally here. No more student finance, beans on toast and all night library sessions. You've done the dissertation and smashed those essays and now it's time to celebrate your entry into adulthood. Whether you're looking for a swanky dinner with the parents, a late-night spot to let your hair down with uni mates, or all of the above, read on for our recommendations of the best places to celebrate graduation in London.
Gymkhana is the perfect spot to celebrate your graduation. This Michelin-starred restaurant offers a cosy yet elegant setting and serves up delicious Indian dishes made with high-quality ingredients. If you're a meat lover, you'll be pleased to know that the chicken, lamb, and goat dishes are all halal. We'd recommend trying the tandoori masala chops with walnut chutney and the kasoori chicken tikka to give your tastebuds a treat like no other.
Spread across two stories, Wagtail Rooftop Bar & Restaurant features a restaurant with two cosy terraces, a classy rooftop bar, and a swanky private dining room perched right at the top of the building. What's really cool? This epic venue offers epic 360° views of London's famous landmarks like Tower Bridge, St Paul's Cathedral, The Shard, Gherkin, and the Walkie Talkie Building, all while dishing up tasty treats like pan-fried Lincolnshire pheasant leg croquette.
If you're after something a bit more fancy, then go for afternoon tea at the ritzy May Fair Kitchen. Not only is the spread to die for, but the location is just as snazzy. Plus, your mum will love it too.
If you're looking for top-notch graduation restaurants with Michelin stars in London, Trishna is a must-visit. They serve up modern coastal cuisine, featuring mouthwatering dishes like coconut curry leaf scallops and Kashmiri morel. Their menu also includes excellent wine pairings from small-scale producers and independent wineries, making it a unique dining experience. And with the same team from the acclaimed Gymkhana behind this swish venue, you know you're in for a treat.
Graduating soon? Head to BrewDog Waterloo for a celebration like no other. With its two floors of epic craft beer, food, and entertainment, it's the perfect spot to toast your hard-earned success.
Graduates can enjoy a free pint of cold beer or a Wonderland cocktail when they show up in their gown or pre-booked. It's an unforgettable way to kick off the next chapter of your life.
With two beautiful restaurants and two vibrant bars spread across three gorgeous floors of unrivaled views ofLondon's skyline, Sky Garden provides the perfect backdrop for a memorable evening in the City.
If you're on the lookout for gorgeous London views and mouthwatering grub, make your way to the Grade II-listed spot in Farringdon, Smiths of Smithfield, which serves up a dining adventure that you won't forget. They've got bubbly Champagne, tasty small plates for sharing, and even bottomless brunch options.
If you're up for a swanky celebration, head over to Benares Restaurant & Bar in Berkeley Square, Mayfair. Step into their classy lounge adorned with hand-crafted Indian-style furniture and a gorgeous pond filled with fresh flowers and get ready for some top-notch Indian grub, like duck curries, baked scallops, and fresh fig dumplings. It's a feast fit for a king.
Electric Shuffle has reimagined the traditional game of shuffleboard into a thrilling social experience for groups of up to 16. As you battle it out over the board, you can sip handcrafted cocktails and nibble on tacos, sliders, sticks, wings and sharing platters.
If you're looking for somewhere to celebrate graduation, this is it. As a little congratulations, these guys will give you a free bottle of prosecco when you book a session for between four and 12 guests.
Imperial students may know where to go after hours in Kensington, but if you're after a swish restaurant to take your parents to, then this stunning Cromwell Road spot is ideal. Close to the Royal Albert Hall, it really is the perfect place to raise a glass to your achievements.
With venues everywhere from Leicester Square to Moorgate and Wimbledon, All Bar One is a great choice for post-graduation celebrations. Not only do they serve up all kinds of great cocktails, but they're also offering graduates a free glass of prosecco or Aperol spritz with their rewards app.
This is a top spot for food too, with an extensive menu that ranges from Korean barbecue chicken burgers to loaded nachos and prawn or chicken pad Thai.
Whether you're at their venue in Butlers Wharf, Victoria, West India Quay or Covent Garden, you can count on Browns Brasserie to celebrate your graduation in style. And to make things better? They're offering all graduates a free glass of Champagne when you dine with them.
They've also got a special two or three-course graduation menu, starting from £36 per person. Tuck into the likes of prawn and chorizo linguine, pea and asparagus risotto or pulled lamb shepherd's pie, with a dreamy Belgian chocolate brownie for dessert.
On the hunt for a spot to throw a bash that'll have your friends soaring with joy? Nesting on the 10th floor of the Montcalm Royal London House Hotel in Finsbury Square, Aviary Rooftop Bar & Restaurant boasts envy-inducing views over the City. Kick back, sip on an award-winning cocktails, and catch the sunset before digging into one of their absolutely delectable British dishes like roast Atlantic cod with samphire and crushed leeks or pressed Barbary duck terrine.
Got a big day coming up? Whether you're into fancy seafood, spicy Indian flavours, or classy French cuisine, you're bound to find something in London's fine dining scene for your graduation. Check out this guide on the best Michelin-starred restaurants in the city to find your next favourite venue,
If you're looking for somewhere to celebrate saying so long to school, Flight Club has got you covered. This place knows a thing or two about partying, with epic oches and its much-loved menu of wings, tacos, sliders and sharing boards.
Round up your crew and get over to its spots across London, from Bloomsbury to Islington. By way of ConGRADulations, these guys will give you a free bottle of prosecco when you book a game for between 4 and 12 people - just be sure to bring your student ID.
If you're graduating at the Barbican Centre and looking for somewhere chilled out, this charming gastropub is only minutes away. With a reputation as one of the best in London, this is definitely worth a visit.
The Lighterman is an all-encompassing establishment located in the vibrant King's Cross area, boasting stunning views of Regent's Canal and Granary Square. Its menu features seasonal modern British classics, including elevated pub fare and an extensive bar menu offering craft beer, wine, and carefully crafted cocktails. Highlights include Salt Marsh lamb cutlets with grilled red chicory and mint pesto and a 32-day-aged rare breed sirloin.
Central St Martin's alum will know this Kings cross restaurant well. Located in the modern Granary Square and is the perfect destination from morning to night. Start with a relaxed breakfast and renowned coffee or take the family for a chilled out dinner.
If you're looking for somewhere to impress, then this iconic sky-high restaurant is a no brainer. Not only will you be in swanky surroundings, but the food and drink is equally as good. This is definitely one for the list if you're looking for somewhere the parents will love.
