Whether you’re looking for a cosy heated terrace or a bustling beer garden, here are London’s best outdoor dining areas
With London basking in the glow of long-awaited sunshine, alfresco season has officially arrived. From hidden garden terraces to buzzing canal-side breweries, the capital’s best outdoor bars are pulling out all the stops this summer. Whether you’re looking for rooftop views, waterside cocktails, or lush courtyard lounging, these venues are all open now and ready to elevate your summer days and nights. Here’s your definitive 2025 guide to the best open-air bars and restaurants in London.
Best Outdoor Dining in London
King’s Cross & Granary Square
Bubala, Cadence Court
Opening April 28, 2025, Bubala brings its vibrant, plant-based Middle Eastern flavours to King’s Cross, with a striking two-floor venue and 30-seat outdoor terrace. Menu highlights include oyster mushroom skewers, confit latkes, crisp spanakopita börek, mujadara, and the Instagram-famous “Bubala’s Big Pud” sharing dessert. Drinks range from wine-on-tap to natural bottles, UK beers and their signature Gazoz house sodas. A must-visit for adventurous veg-forward convivial dining.
bubala.co.uk
The Lighterman, Granary Square
A contemporary pub and dining room that spans three floors, including wrap-around canal terraces and a casual ground-floor spot beside the towpath. The seasonal British-European menu—exemplified by coal-grilled flatbreads, seabass tartare and King prawn platters—matches well with an extensive drinks list of biodynamic wines, craft beers and polished cocktails. Perfect for brunch, after-work drinks, or weekend dining with waterside views.
thelighterman.co.uk
Vermuteria, Coal Drops Yard
A hidden gem in the heart of Coal Drops Yard, Vermuteria offers a continental feel with its vermouth-focused drinks menu and charming terrace. Expect rustic sharing plates—cheese, charcuterie, grilled artichokes—and a selection of fortified cocktails with a twist. Open daily and especially atmospheric in golden hour light.
vermuteria.cc
Caravan, Granary Square
Buzzing from brunch till late, Caravan’s industrial-chic interiors spill out onto a spacious terrace. The globally inspired menu covers everything from kimchi pancakes to crispy duck salad, all best enjoyed alongside Caravan’s signature cocktails or house-roasted coffee. Great for casual dinners or weekend brunch alfresco.
caravanandco.com
Canalside & Riverside
Gin Garden by The Water (Rotunda Bar, King’s Cross)
A botanical oasis nestled beside Regent’s Canal, this hidden terrace is a gin lover’s dream. House-infused gins, herbaceous cocktails and seasonal light bites like burrata salads and grilled flatbreads await. The space is lined with planters and fairy lights, offering an intimate riverside escape within buzzing King’s Cross.
rotundabarandrestaurant.co.uk
Sam’s Riverside, Hammersmith
Just steps from the Thames, this sophisticated yet approachable venue serves up elegant seafood dishes with beautiful river views. With 40 alfresco seats, the terrace is both scenic and sociable, offering oysters, grilled prawns, and chilled rosé on demand. Perfect for golden hour drinks or a relaxed date night.
samsriverside.co.uk
The Summerhouse, Little Venice
A perennial favourite thanks to its nautical-chic interiors and canal-side setting. Dine on classics like lobster rolls, grilled seabass and truffle fries, all framed by leafy canal views. The vibe is breezy and romantic—a tranquil retreat in the heart of the city.
thesummerhouse.co
Bermondsey Beer Mile & South London
This stretch of Bermondsey railway arches offers the ultimate self-guided beer crawl, now back in full swing for 2025. Many venues offer outdoor seating, street food and live events on weekends.
Southwark Brewing Co
Traditional cask ales and bitters in a laid-back courtyard setting. Great for ale aficionados.
southwarkbrewing.co.uk
Kanpai Sake Taproom
A rare treat in London, this sake taproom combines traditional Japanese brewing with contemporary design and a small outdoor nook.
kanpai.london
Doodle Bar
An eclectic, graffiti-clad space with outdoor seating, ping-pong tables and craft drinks.
thedoodlebar.com
Barrel Project by London Beer Factory
Known for sour beers and barrel-aged IPAs, with a covered outdoor terrace perfect for rain-or-shine sipping.
thebarrelproject.co.uk
Cloudwater, Bianca Road, Craft Beer Junction, Mash Paddle, The Kernel Spa Road
All offer rotating beer menus, courtyard seating, and a communal summer buzz that defines Bermondsey Beer Mile weekends.
Rooftops & Unique Venues
Skylark Roof Garden, Paddington
One of West London’s most scenic rooftops, this elevated garden overlooks Notting Hill and Hyde Park. Think floral cocktails, seasonal small plates, and a laid-back luxury vibe. DJs spin chill house on weekends, and the sunsets are unbeatable.
skylarkroofgarden.co.uk
Frank’s Café, Peckham
Located atop a multistorey car park, this beloved Bold Tendencies project remains one of London’s coolest summer hangouts. Expect Campari spritzes, fresh panzanella, and panoramic views across London’s skyline. Open May through September.
boldtendencies.com
Roof East, Stratford
Part rooftop playground, part urban bar, Roof East is back for 2025 with outdoor cinema nights, street food stalls, bottomless brunches and interactive games. A fun, youthful vibe reigns supreme.
www.roofeast.com
The Hari Garden Terrace, Knightsbridge
This luxurious, tucked-away terrace feels like a secret garden above the city. With retractable roofing, plush furnishings and high-end cocktails, it’s a discreet haunt for those seeking an elegant escape.
thehari.com
CUT-Out Terrace at 45 Park Lane
For a five-star rooftop experience, Wolfgang Puck’s CUT restaurant delivers with Wagyu bites, Japanese whisky cocktails, and chic terrace seating. Expect impeccable service and a truly refined atmosphere.
dorchestercollection.com
Secret Gardens & Pub Classics
The Garden Lounge, Corinthia London
This lavish hotel garden combines Mediterranean charm with British polish. Surrounded by greenery and mosaics, guests enjoy crafted cocktails and small plates in total tranquillity.
corinthia.com
The Ship, Wandsworth
A south London institution, The Ship’s riverside beer garden buzzes all summer long. From Pimm’s to pulled pork buns, it’s a crowd-pleaser with unbeatable views.
theship.co.uk
Daffodil Mulligan, Old Street
Chef Richard Corrigan’s wood-fired courtyard serves up bold Irish-meets-BBQ dishes. Great for smoky flavours, hearty portions and a garden party feel.
daffodilmulligan.com
The Pembroke, Primrose Hill
This leafy beer garden is a neighbourhood favourite, known for premium pub food, crisp wines and a lively but laid-back vibe.
pubsmiths.co.uk
The Canonbury, Islington
A Georgian pub with one of the prettiest beer gardens in north London. Perfect for summer lunches or evening drinks under the trees.
thecanonbury.co.uk
Chelsea & Mayfair Cultural Charm
Daphne’s, Chelsea
A taste of the Amalfi Coast in SW3, Daphne’s garden room glows with lemon trees, terracotta tiles and open-air elegance. Expect impeccable Italian dishes and a relaxed but glamorous crowd.
daphnes-restaurant.co.uk
Vardo, Duke of York Square
This airy café-restaurant features retractable walls for a seamless indoor-outdoor experience. The globally inspired menu makes it a magnet for brunch-goers and late-night diners alike.
dukeofyorksquare.com
Final Tips
- Reserve ahead – especially on sunny weekends.
- Check for live events – many of these spots feature DJs, screenings or seasonal menus.
- Arrive early – terraces can fill fast by 5pm.
- Bring layers – London evenings cool quickly, even in June.
Whether you’re craving riverside tranquillity or rooftop revelry, London’s alfresco scene is in full bloom for summer 2025. Raise a glass, soak up the sun, and make the most of the city’s glorious outdoor offerings.
Like this? Check out the best summer terraces in London.
How Absolutely Picks the Best for You
At Absolutely Magazines, we pride ourselves on curating only the finest recommendations for our refined readers. Our editors leverage their extensive expertise in lifestyle journalism to ensure that every selection meets the highest standards of quality and relevance. From scouring local insider tips to understanding trends and feedback, we leave no stone unturned in identifying the most exceptional venues for you. Guided by an appreciation for your taste, we prioritise venues and events that epitomise luxury, style, and premium experiences. You can trust us to bring you the Absolute best, every time.
