The weather is glorious and you want to make the most of it - and why shouldn't you? Sunny days are few and far between and the thought of wasting them in stuffy eateries is a crying shame. Whether you're after a low-key bite to eat by a quiet canal, a classy sunset dinner near the Thames or something a little different, here are London's best restaurants by the water.
Cottons can be found in the heart of Vauxhall, with a spacious outdoor terrace that overlooks the Thames. This vibrant Caribbean venue promises relaxed reggae beats, colourful interiors and a menu of mouthwatering eats, ranging from jerk marinated salmon to vegetable curries and oxtail stew. They also offer a Caribbean twist on the classic Sunday roast, as well as a three-course bottomless brunch on Saturdays that costs just £34.50 per person.
A cool and casual spot for both a drink and a bite to eat, The Riverside sits blissfully next to the water in Vauxhall, with a beer garden outside for when the sunshine hits. On the menu? Pub classics such as fish and chips, with a glass of wine or a craft beer to pair.
A list of London riverside restaurants wouldn't be complete without The Chelsea Harbour Hotel & Spa, which overlooks the water and moored boats for fantastic views while you dine. Not only is there an alfresco terrace, but also Mediterranean munch galore.
A riverside restaurant in Canary Wharf, No.35 Mackenzie Walk makes the most of its scenic location with a gorgeous outdoor terrace. Whether you're here for an after-work drink, light lunch or a bottomless brunch, you're sure to be in for a great time at this beautiful spot.
Looking for a gorgeous riverside pub in London? Located in the picturesque Canbury Gardens, just a short walk from central Kingston, Boaters is a classic pub that has it all - a riverside beer garden, a peaceful sunset balcony, and a blend of stunning classic and contemporary decor. But let's not forget why you're really going, the food and drink, of course; with a menu featuring goodies like dry-aged rack of lamb, red mullet and mussel fish stew, as well as a great selection of beers, wines, and cocktails, you're sure to have a great time.
Located in Sheldon Square right next to the canal, not far from Little Venice, The Union Bar Paddington boasts pretty views of the river. While you admire them, dig into tapas washed down by one of the many fantastic wines.
Escape the bustle of London and enjoy a peaceful, memorable meal at Waterfront London, one of the best riverside restaurants in the city. Featuring an elegant setting with warm golden lighting, cosy booths, and views of the Thames, it's the perfect spot to relax and indulge.
With dishes crafted by Chef Alex, using locally sourced ingredients, and an impressive drinks menu with seasonal cocktails, this riverside retreat offers something for every taste. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or just enjoying a day by the river, Waterfront London ensures every visit is filled with comfort and joy.
Gaze at The O2 as you sip your pint at this Docklands pub. Housed within a Grade II-listed building, The Gun has been beautifully redecorated while still holding onto its original features, making it a charming riverside restaurant in London.
Rick Stein in Barnes can be found just beyond Richmond sporting stunning views of the river, dangling foliage and large windows creating a calm, spacious dining environment. The acclaimed seafood chef is serving up some of the best UK catches here, with the likes of Shetland mussels with garlic, chilli and lemon the menu, plus scallops in a hazelnut butter, smoked salmon and more.
Arepa & Co Haggerston is bringing the taste of Venezuela to the capital. The kitchen dishes up a selection of arepas, rice bowls and cachapas (pancakes made with corn flour) for hungry diners to nibble on while admiring the passing swans and kayaks.
Searching for a place to eat near the Thames? Look no further than The Cutty Sark, a Greenwich gem and corker of a pub. Swing by as the sun is setting for banging British classics done just right and jaw-dropping panoramas across Canary Wharf.
When all you want to do is soak up the sunshine and the capital's most iconic landmarks, Browns Brasserie & Bar Butlers Wharf is a fabulous shout. Head along to this snazzy space for beaut views alongside brunches, Sunday roasts and an a la carte menu of British favourites.
You'll find Holiday Inn close to the Grand Union Canal in Brentford Lock, boasting floor-to-ceiling windows that let in lots of natural light. They offer all-day dining here, including breakfast and an afternoon tea that costs just £25 for two people.
There's all sorts to choose from on their huge menu, including Sri Lankan-style vegetable curry, spicy salami and nduja pizza or crispy buttermilk chicken burgers.
Set within an atmospheric glass atrium and flaunting a waterside terrace, Obica Mozzarella Bar is perfect for those who fancy eating by the river. Head along to the Canary Whard hotspot to indulge in expertly prepared Italian fare paired with plenty of vino.
Few London restaurants do it quite like Le Pont de la Tour. Sitting proudly beneath Tower Bridge in Butler's Wharf, this riverside institution has been serving classic French cooking and fine wine for over 30 years, and it still knows how to make a meal feel like an occasion. The terrace remains one of the most coveted dining spots on the Thames, perfect for lingering lunches or candlelit dinners as the city glows around you.
The menu leans confidently into tradition, from escargots swimming in garlic butter and slow-cooked onion soup to Dover sole, veal cutlet and coq au vin done with polish.
Dove is steeped in history; since it first opened in the 17th century, this Hammersmith watering hole has garnered quite the reputation. From the great atmosphere and riverside garden to the cask ales and crowd-pleasing grub, you can see why it's so popular.
High above the upper foyer, VU at The Tower gives you endless views of the River Thames. As you look down at Tower Bridge, you can tuck into tasty small plates and heaps of hearty mains.
Think mezze, edamame, tortilla bowls, burgers, steak and sensational seafood. Over on the drinks list there's more to love, with champagne cocktails, spritzes and signature serves all up for grabs.
Located on the banks of the Grand Union Canal, Smith's Bar & Grill is one of the best riverside restaurants in West London. Feast on juicy burgers, fresh fish and premium steaks while watching the narrowboats float past.
One of the city's most popular riverside restaurants has got to be Barge East, a stunning spot actually located on the water. Nestled alongside the floating eatery, the gardens and terrace offer the perfect plot from which to admire the glimmering River Lee.
Cityscape panoramas, live entertainment and afternoon teas are all up for grabs at Scoff & Banter. What's more, the elegant Canary Wharf bistro also touts an enviable outdoor terrace where you can devour bites like pan-fried sea bass and cacio e pepe.
Brasserie Constance, located within Fulham Pier, is a highlight for those seeking modern British cuisine with a riverside setting. Its menu champions seasonal and locally sourced ingredients, offering dishes that balance refinement with rustic charm. The restaurant's contemporary, light-filled space overlooks the Thames, enhancing the dining experience with panoramic views and a relaxed, elegant atmosphere. For those in search of lighter fare, Water's Edge offers a changing menu and classic afternoon tea, perfect for an indulgent riverside pause.
Alongside these sit the vibrant Riverside Market, a food hall on the ground floor where casual dining comes alive with a variety of stalls serving everything from gourmet burgers to fresh salads and tacos.
Founders Arms is a great haunt if you're looking for top-notch views of the Thames. Situated right on the river, next to the Tate Modern and Millennium Bridge, this glass-fronted boozer offers a boat-load of pub favourites to enjoy at the gorgeous location.
Located along Hackney Wick, Two More Years is a sustainable riverside restaurant that's dishing up desirable views and incredible burgers. Grab a table on the terrace and pick between a number of meaty and vegan patties.
One of the best restaurants on the River Thames near London Bridge is none other than The Oyster Shed. Not only is the view monumental, looking over The Thames and with The Shard looming, but it also has a fantastic menu of fine wine, seafood and elevated pub grub.
Promising great views over the Thames, Setlist should be your next riverside dining destination. It's located on the iconic Somerset House terrace, promising a regular lineup of events - we're talking live music, DJ sets and even art installations.
Wondering what's on the menu? The kitchen is made up of a group of female chefs who offer different cuisines - think smoked aubergine pizzas, aged beef smash burgers, Baja fish tacos and much more.
Looking for epic views of the water? Get on over to Hackney Bridge.
Right on the edge of the Olympic Park, it's perfect for soaking up the sun as you drink and dine alfresco. There's plenty here to keep you refreshed, from cocktails and craft beer to sensational street food.
Limin Southbank is a cool bar along the Thames. Head here for palm trees and sandy floors, along with rum-laced concoctions and a range of Caribbean street food classics, including BBQ jerk chicken, jackfruit roti and masala chips.
This traditional boozer is undoubtedly one of the best pubs and riverside restaurants in London. Situated on the water's edge at Richmond, The White Cross' cosy interiors and comforting food make it an ideal spot come rain or shine.
Found right by the River Thames, Zizzi Bankside (and its sister site in Greenwich) offers dining with a view. Expect warm, rustic interiors, with indoor trees and wooden structures on the walls, as well as one helluva menu of Italian food. Think lasagne, seared salmon and pizza.
This gem is ideal for those seeking out a delicious and relaxing meal by the water. Situated in the hub of King's Cross, Rotunda boasts an award-winning wine list, a mouthwatering menu made using sustainable produce and a surprisingly large canalside terrace hidden out back.
Right on the banks of the Thames, Sonny's Riverside gives you worldy views of the water whether you're stopping by for a drink or settling in for a long and leisurely lunch. There's plenty to see to your hunger too, whatever your appetite.
We're talking sharing plates of Padron peppers and parmesan fries, plus pizza generously topped with pepperoni, pesto, nduja and plenty more. To pair with your plate, order up a glass from the carefully curated wine list or get to grips with an eye-catching signature cocktail.
When it comes to places to eat by the river, The Ship is up there with the very best. Flaunting the Thames as its backdrop, the Wandsworth boozer comes up trumps for its ambience, location and scrumptious bites, along with its weekly live music sessions and quizzes.
Darcie & May Green offers some of the city's most charming riverside dining, right on Regent's Canal. You can enjoy brunch on the open rooftop or cosy indoor seating with big windows overlooking the water.
The setting is peaceful but still buzzing with Paddington energy, making it ideal for breakfast meetings, long lunches or sunny weekend brunches. With a menu inspired by Australian café culture and drinks that suit any mood, it's a go-to for waterfront lovers.
Taking waterside dining to the next level, Darcie & May Green is bringing you delicious dishes onboard a stunning barge boat. Head over to the Paddington Basin haunt for a host of Australian-inspired bites (you must try the award-winning banana bread sandwiches) and summery cocktails.
If you're looking for a restaurant with sweeping views of the Thames, Gaucho Richmond is a great bet. Here, you can tuck into Argentinian steaks in the sleek space or on a gorgeous terrace, with plenty of crackin' sides to boot.
Towpath in Hackney offers a scenic dining experience right on the canal, combining rustic charm with contemporary British cuisine. With a focus on seasonal, locally sourced produce, the menu celebrates simple, delicious flavours in a relaxed, airy space. Whether you're enjoying a casual lunch on the terrace or a sunset dinner overlooking the water, Towpath's riverside setting provides a tranquil backdrop that enhances every bite.
Looking for a celebratory meal near the Thames? Gaucho's Southbank restaurant is sure to impress, offering up some of the finest Argentinian steaks, sophisticated interiors and unparalleled views of Tower Bridge.
One of the most unique restaurants in the entire city, The Cheese Barge is dedicated to just one thing: cheese. The floating eatery can be found on a 96-foot boat on Regent's Canal, close to Paddington station, offering two floors of seating space.
Their quirky menu features small plates, grilled sandwiches, sharers and individual portions of cheese, available on a three for £14.25 offer. Dig into the likes of Cornish gouda, baked brie with new potatoes, goat's curd with sweet potato fritters and much more.
