31 of the best beer gardens in London for when the sun shines

If you like a cold beer on a hot day, you probably think there’s nothing better than soaking up some rays at one of London's best beer gardens (and we're inclined to agree). Being an inclusive bunch when it comes to drinking at SquareMeal, we’re happy to add that cocktails or a chilled wine does the trick rather nicely too - but then we’re sure we don’t need to tell you that. If you're tired of frantically searching 'beer garden near me' as soon as the sun comes out, then we've got you covered, with beer gardens in central London, to pub gardens further afield, with spots across the city.

Every year as the summer months start approaching, one thing that you can’t help but imagine is that feeling of being able to sit outside without being freezing, whether that be to eat al fresco, drink or just chill out. However, there aren’t many feelings better than sitting with your sunnies on in a lovely beer garden with a pint of cold lager in your hand. While you might be quick to imagine that pubs with outdoor space lie far out of the city, there are loads of fantastic beer gardens in London, right in the heart of the action, which are really worth a visit.

There are lots of different factors to consider when you’re looking for the perfect beer garden in London; are you looking for a huge garden where a large group of you will be able to stand together? Maybe you want somewhere small and romantic with beautiful views and an amazing gastro pub food menu. Or perhaps you’re all about that outdoor bar and huge screen to watch the footie on. Well, regardless of which of these you’re looking for we’ve got you covered with our carefully selected roundup.

We’ve scoured our collection of London pub listings to bring you our pick of the best beer gardens in London, all in one place. On top of that, we've also included details about private hire, because where better to host a summer birthday or drinks celebration than a sunny beer garden? Have a little scroll through these sun-soaked spots, so you can sip alfresco in a pub worth talking about. Spread out all over London, these beer gardens tick all the right boxes for us and we’re sure they will for you too.

The best beer gardens in central London

While you might not think there’d be room for beer gardens in central London, we’re here to put the record straight with this lovely lot slap bang in the middle of town.

London Bridge Rooftop, London Bridge

What: London Bridge Rooftop delivers outdoor drinking at height, with panoramic city views and plenty of open-air seating. Just moments from the station, it’s a go-to for sunny afternoons, bottomless brunches and after-work drinks, offering skyline backdrops, buzzy crowds and a true rooftop party atmosphere.
Where: Colechurch House, Bridge Walk, SE1 2SX
Book now: London Bridge Rooftop

The Racketeer, King's Cross

What: A tiny walled garden hidden at the rear of the pub makes The Racketeer a rare outdoor find in King’s Cross. Tucked away from the bustle, it’s ideal for summer cocktails and low-key evenings, offering a hidden-away feel that perfectly matches this intimate bar’s relaxed, grown-up atmosphere.
Where: 105 King’s Cross Road, WC1X 9LR
Planning something special? Explore private hire options at The Racketeer
Book now: The Racketeer

Two Tribes Brewery & Campfire Taproom, Kings Cross

What: With an emphasis on the beer in beer garden, Campfire is the Two Tribes Brewery taproom. If you have an appreciation for fine craft beer, delicious fire-cooked barbecue dishes, and electronic music, this unique beer garden is the place for you. There's plenty of room, and it's well-heated too, making this a good spot at most times of year. 
Where: Tileyard Road, N7 9AH
Book now: Two Tribes Brewery & Campfire Taproom

Vinegar Yard, Southwark

What: Who needs a beer garden when you can have a beer yard? This venue includes drinks, food, a flea market, and some good old fashioned art; yep, Vinegar Yard is the full monty. Come summer head here alongside your friends to enjoy a cool drink in the sun at this huge outside venue. It also shows plenty of sport on big screens, so come here if you're in search of big tournament atmosphere. 
Where: 72-82 St Thomas Street, SE1 3QU
Book now: Vinegar Yard

The best beer gardens in west London

With its bustling neighbourhoods and upmarket vibe, west London is home to some of the nicest beer gardens in London - with leafy terraces, great design and delicious snack menus all commonplace.

The Hound, Chiswick

What: The Hound pairs its historic interiors with a highly photogenic, semi-private outdoor courtyard that’s perfect for alfresco pub dining. Complete with a retractable roof, it offers fresh-air drinking whatever the weather, making it a solid choice for relaxed gatherings. Even as London gastropubs go, the food offering is outstanding - we’d recommend booking a table for a Sunday roast.
Where: 210 Chiswick High Road, W4 1PD
Planning something special? Explore private hire options at The Hound
Book now: The Hound

Sambrook's Brewery, Wandsworth

What: With a huge outdoor area and plenty of space to spread out, Sambrook’s Brewery is ideal for big groups and laid-back afternoons. Grab fresh beer straight from the source, order pizza, and settle in for sunshine pints in this relaxed, community-focused brewing hub. Fifteen rotating taps mean you’re always spoiled for choice on the drinks front.
Where: 1 Bellwether Lane, SW18 1UR
Planning something special? Explore private hire options at Sambrook's Brewery
Book now: Sambrook's Brewery

The Broadcaster, White City

What: Set inside the former BBC Television Centre, The Broadcaster stands out for its spacious, dog-friendly rooftop. Heated and sheltered for year-round use, it’s a go-to for outdoor drinks, DJs and social sessions. Downstairs, it offers the feel of a lively modern pub with plenty of space to spill outside on warmer days.
Where: 89 Wood Lane, W12 7FX
Book now: The Broadcaster

Cue Point, Notting Hill

What: Set within The Garden Bar, just opposite Latimer Road Station, Cue Point’s ever-popular courtyard doubles not just as a wonderful, fairy-lit beer garden, but also as one of London’s most inspired barbecue concepts. Whether you’re drinking, dining on Afghan-Texan barbecue, or doing a little bit of both, the energy here is unmatched. Cue Point is a big deal, so a word of warning: get here early to snag a seat!
Where: 41 Bramley Road, W10 6SZ
Book now: Cue Point

The Eagle, Shepherd's Bush

What: Featuring a beanbag and deckchair covered lawn alongside some smaller outhouse-style booths, the beer garden of The Eagle in Shepherd’s Bush has to be one of our favourites in West London. It also has the added bonus of an outdoor burger shack, making a great spot for both daytime and evenings. 
Where: 215 Askew Road, W12 9AZ
Book now: The Eagle

The Prince, Fulham

What: The owners of The Prince claim that it's 'London's biggest beer garden', and while we can't confirm that, we do know that they're well-versed in creating an atmosphere buzzing with fun and entertainment. Part pub, part food hall, this is a spot to head to come rain or shine thanks to a nifty retractable roof.
Where: 14 Lillie Road, SW6 1TT
Book now: The Prince

The Crabtree, Fulham

What: In a fantastic location in Hammersmith, The Crabtree’s enormous riverside garden is a picturesque spot to visit during a summer evening. It also has its own small kitchen called The Crab Shack which opens on warmer evenings, where you can enjoy fresh seafood from under the huge riverside willow tree.
Where: 4 Rainville Road, W6 9HA
Book now: The Crabtree

The best beer gardens in east London

There’s nowhere quite like east London when the sun is shining. Make the most of the warmer weather with one of east London’s best beer gardens, which bring the cool factor by the bucket load.

Barge East, Hackney Wick

What: Permanently moored in Hackney Wick, Barge East pairs quality grub with one of east London’s biggest outdoor spaces. The massive riverside garden is perfect for sunshine drinking, while covered, heated decks mean you can dine outside year-round, watching the water and soaking up relaxed canal-side vibes.
Where: White Post Lane, E9 5EN
Planning something special? Explore private hire options at Barge East
Book now: Barge East

Big Penny Social, Walthamstow

What: Firmly cemented within the ‘Blackhorse Beer Mile’, Big Penny Social is a staple part of Walthamstow’s pub scene, and perhaps snags the title of the largest tap room on this list. Stretched bench seating, home-brewed beers on draft, and a beach pop-up in the summer months makes this the perfect spot for a couple of drinks when the sun comes out.
Where: 1 Priestley Way, E17 6AL
Book now: Big Penny Social

Pub on the Park, Hackney

What: This massive Hackney pub spills right onto the edge of London Fields, and the beer garden has views right across the park. The food comes from American BBQ masters Pitboss (an offshoot from the team behind barbecue kings Bodeans) so you can rely on good burgers, ribs and more. Throw in plenty of live sports, screens and it’s no wonder that Pub on the Park is always busy when the sun is out.
Where: 19 Martello Street, E8 3PE
Book now: Pub on the Park

The Crooked Billet, Clapton 

What: Clapton is the home to The Crooked Billet which offers great food, a large selection of beers and most importantly a great sized beer garden. The outdoor area is usually packed if you’re not there good and early, with lots of little alcoves to sit in, so get in before the rush on a sunny day.
Where: 84 Upper Clapton Road, E5 9JP
Book now: The Crooked Billet

The Scolt Head, Dalston

What: Over in Dalston the beautiful beer garden at The Scolt Head is covered in ivy and feels like a complete escape from the outside world. With its own lamppost also in the garden, this charming spot is the perfect place to enjoy a craft beer well into the evening. This is another one we'd recommend getting to early, as it's on the cosy side.
Where: 107a Culford Road, N1 4HT
Book now: The Scolt Head

The Crown & Shuttle, Shoreditch

What: Situated right on Shoreditch High Street, you wouldn’t expect a pub in a prime location like this to have an outdoor area, but the garden has always been part of the iconic Crown & Shuttle's charm. The small heated courtyard is a great spot to catch up with friends in this part of town, and its artsy vibe is Shoreditch through and through. 
Where: 226 Shoreditch High Street, E1 6PJ
Book now: The Crown & Shuttle

The best beer gardens in north London

North London is notoriously lovely, and the beer gardens are suitably up to scratch. Expect cosy British boozers with sprawling terraces out the back in this leafy London district.

The Faltering Fullback, Finsbury Park

What: Finsbury Park and Stroud Green Road are always buzzing with activity, and you can expect lots of atmosphere from the excellent local pubs here, especially on Arsenal and Tottenham match days. That said, The Faltering Fullback is particularly special - clad in ivy and flowers throughout the year, people flock to this pub from far and wide, especially in the summer when the multistorey beer garden is packed with punters.
Where: 19 Perth Road, N4 3HB
Book now: The Faltering Fullback

The King of Prussia, Finchley

What: This vibrant neighbourhood pub might feel like a garden on the inside, thanks to the abundance of plants that deck out its dining rooms, but it also boasts a pretty delightful beer garden too. Pints, pizzas and a seat outdoors feels like a winning combo in our opinion, and there's also a conservatory with retractable roof as a comfortable middle ground.
Where: 363 Regents Park Road, N3 1DH
Book now: The King of Prussia 

The Compton Arms, Islington

What: The Compton Arms is perhaps best known as the supposed muse behind George Orwell’s treatise on the perfect pub (in which he dedicated a chunk to the joys of a beer garden). Compared to some of the others on this list, it might seem a little diminutive, but this pub has an ace up its sleeve: a stellar lineup of chef residencies spanning Four Legs, Tiella, and, most recently, Rake.
Where: 4 Compton Avenue, N1 2XD
Book now: The Compton Arms

The Albion, Islington

What: Come summertime, you won’t find a spare inch in either the front courtyard or the large, comely, wisteria-draped beer garden out back at The Albion as it becomes filled with merry-makers. As spacious as it is charming, guests can sip on draught beers such as Amstel or Guinness while nibbling on a selection of savoury bar snacks, which feature things like pork scratchings and devilled whitebait.
Where: 10 Thornhill Road, N1 1HW
Book now: The Albion

The Stag, Belsize Park

What: The Stag is a Victorian pub that’s been running for 150 years, and during that time has solidified its space as a top North London boozer. Expect 24 taps of fresh craft beer, and small batch wines from local retailers, all of which can be enjoyed in the pub garden. More than just a nice spot to knock back a pint or two, guests are treated to live music and weekend BBQs, with covered cabanas for a bit of added shelter. 
Where: 67 Fleet Road, NW3 2QU
Book now: The Stag

The Brownswood, Finsbury Park

What: The Brownswood is a charming pub and guesthouse tucked away in Finsbury Park. While cosy fireplaces adorn the inside, the buzzy beer garden is ideal for a relaxed drink or two while snacking on a few sharing plates or a top quality Sunday roast, and soaking up the summer sun with friends. 
Where: 271 Green Lanes, N4 2EX
Book now: The Brownswood

The Spaniards Inn, Hampstead

What: Everything about the 450 year old Spaniards Inn is incredibly quaint and appealing - no wonder this Hampstead Heath icon has become a real tourist trap. Among its best features is the lovely little beer garden which is the perfect place to enjoy a light bite to eat with sharers and small plates or a drink from their outdoor bar.
Where: Spaniards Road, NW3 7JJ
Book now: The Spaniards Inn

The best beer gardens in south London

South of the river is heaving with well-worn locals. Here you’ll find beer gardens aplenty that range from riverside terraces through to neat garden areas.

Balham Bowls Club, Balham

What: Balham Bowls Club’s pavement seating is prime real estate when the sun’s out. A short walk from the station, it’s lively, sociable and ideal for casual pints with friends, before heading inside for comfort food, sport on screen and a late-night atmosphere. There's a little garden at the rear as well, which turns into a real suntrap in the summer. 
Where: 7-9 Ramsden Road, SW12 8QX
Book now: Balham Bowls Club

The Rose & Crown Clapham Old Town, Clapham

What: Just minutes from Clapham Common, The Rose & Crown’s sun-kissed terracotta front and smart little beer garden are just what the doctor ordered on sunny Clapham afternoons. This isn’t the biggest garden and the Rose & Crown gets very busy, so we’d recommend getting down early to nab a spot.
Where: 2 The Polygon, SW4 0JG
Planning something special? Explore private hire options at The Rose & Crown Clapham Old Town
Book now: The Rose & Crown Clapham Old Town

The Magic Garden, Battersea

What: Just round the corner from Battersea Park, you’ll find The Magic Garden offering exactly what it says on the tin. Self proclaimed ‘festival in a pub’, here you’ll find a combination of funky boho decor, fairy lights and live music for a rather unforgettable experience. There are also fluffy blankets and hot water bottles in case the weather gets a bit nippy. 
Where: 231 Battersea Park Road, SW11 4LG
Book now: The Magic Garden 

The Avalon, Clapham

What: Boasting not one, not two but three outdoor areas, The Avalon in Clapham is a winner for us. The main outdoor garden features an alfresco bar and wooden booths to sit in, whilst the courtyard and the separate terrace are a little more intimate. The team here (also the group behind pubs like The Tommyfield in Kennington and The Abbeville in Clapham) really knows how to put together a good gastropub menu too. 
Where: 16 Balham Hill, SW12 9EB
Book now: The Avalon

Hope & Anchor, Brixton

What: There are plenty to choose from, but this may just be Brixton's best beer garden. Hope & Anchor's (not to be confused with Southwark's Anchor & Hope) floral draped garden dotted with tiki huts and fairy lights create a laid-back yet lovely social ambience that is ideal for a summer drink with friends.   
Where: 123 Acre Lane, SW2 5UA
Book now: Hope & Anchor

The Ship, Wandsworth

What: Wandsworth’s The Ship is based right on the edge of the Thames just along from Wandsworth Bridge. This means that unsurprisingly the view is stunning, and the large terrace area is a beautiful spot to watch the sunset with a drink in hand. This one gets pretty buzzy in the sun, so expect an upbeat atmosphere. 
Where: 41 Jew's Row, SW18 1TB
Book now: The Ship

The Duke of Edinburgh, Brixton

What: Although we have a soft spot for the Hope & Anchor nearby, you’ll struggle to find many London beer gardens bigger than the one at The Duke of Edinburgh in Brixton. With space for hundreds of people to sit, this is a great option if you’re with a very large group in South London, and it does good easy-going pub food into the bargain. 
Where: 204 Ferndale Road, SW9 8AG
Book now: The Duke of Edinburgh

For more drinking inspiration, see our recommendations for the coolest cocktail bars in London, or if you love a great boozer, we've rounded up the best Irish pubs in London and the best pubs in London.