Best Outdoor Bars in London: Enjoy a Drink with a View

London is home to some of the best outdoor bars in the world, and finding them can be a challenge. Luckily, this guide has done all the hard work for you. Whether you’re looking for a cozy rooftop bar or a trendy garden spot, this guide has got you covered.

With the growing popularity of alfresco drinking in the capital, it’s important to wrap up warm and don as many layers as possible. Don’t miss out on these must-visit outdoor bars in London, and be sure to save the handy Google Map with all their locations at the end. For those looking for outdoor dining options, be sure to check out the guide to the best restaurants with outdoor seating.

Key Takeaways

  • London is home to some of the best outdoor bars in the world.
  • This guide has compiled a list of must-visit outdoor bars in the city.
  • For those looking for outdoor dining options, check out the guide to the best restaurants with outdoor seating.

Best Outdoor Bars in London

Central London

London’s central district is home to some of the most stylish and innovative outdoor bars in the city. Here are some of the best:

Jin Bo Law

Jin Bo Law is a relatively new addition to London’s outdoor bar scene, but it has quickly established itself as one of the most popular. Located on the 14th floor of Dorsett City hotel, the bar offers stunning views of the city skyline. The decor is pineapple-themed, and the cocktail list is both innovative and reasonably priced.

Nine Lives

Nine Lives is a popular bar in London Bridge that has recently added a large alfresco drinking space. The terrace is covered for the winter months, making it a great spot to enjoy a drink with friends even on chilly days.

Vinegar Yard

Located in Bermondsey, Vinegar Yard is a spacious outdoor bar with a decent range of local craft beers, wines, and spirits. The bar also offers street food from popular vendors like Baba G’s, Nanny Bills, and Sugo.

Flat Iron Square

Flat Iron Square is the older sister of Vinegar Yard and is just a short stroll away in Southwark. The bar features a sizable beer garden and terrace, which is now covered and heated for the winter months.

Bar Elba

Bar Elba is a quirky outdoor bar located near Waterloo. The bar has a Napoleon-themed decor and offers live DJs and stunning views of the Thames. The venue is spacious, so it’s usually easy to find a table.

Madison at St Pauls

Madison at St Pauls offers a unique drinking experience with views of St Pauls Cathedral. While the cocktails are average, the outdoor seating area offers a great spot to enjoy a drink with friends.

The Trafalgar St James

The Trafalgar St James is one of London’s most iconic rooftop bars, offering stunning views of Nelson’s Column and Trafalgar Square. The bar is a bit pricey, but the heated terrace and cosy blankets make it a fabulous outdoor drinking spot in London.

Radio Rooftop

Radio Rooftop is located on the rooftop of the Hotel ME on The Strand. The bar offers gorgeous views of central London and the Thames, along with an impressive cocktail menu.

Jurema

Jurema is the rooftop terrace at The Mandrake hotel. The bar has a lush, foliage-filled decor and offers boujee cocktails. While the drinks are not cheap, the venue’s ambiance makes it a favourite among London’s outdoor terrace bars.

The Nest Rooftop Bar

The Nest is a cool bar located on the rooftop of the Treehouse Hotel. The bar offers stunning city skyline views and is decked out with benches and loungers. The venue is tier-2 appropriate and is a great spot to enjoy a drink with friends.

Big Chill Bar King’s Cross

Big Chill is a rooftop bar located in King’s Cross. The bar has a relaxed vibe and is always packed with happy drinkers. The rooftop terrace is a great spot to enjoy a drink and take in the views of the city.

East London

East London is home to some of the city’s most vibrant and eclectic outdoor bars. Here are some of the best:

Skylight

Skylight is a rooftop bar located in Tobacco Dock. The bar offers covered terraces and gorgeous views of the city. There are drinks and street food available to pair with your drink.

Hackney Church Brew Co

Hackney Church Brew Co is a craft brewery located in Bohemia Place. The bar offers stellar beer and an excellent food menu from the folks at Lagom.

The Queen of Hoxton

The Queen of Hoxton is a popular Shoreditch hangout with a seasonally themed rooftop. The winter rooftop is unmissable, offering fur blankets, fairy lights, and hot buttered rum.

Number 90

Number 90 is located in Hackney Wick and has been a trailblazer for outdoor drinking in London for almost a decade. The bar offers a seasonal cocktail list, delicious eats, and live music.

Boundary Rooftop

Boundary Rooftop is located in Hackney and offers striking city views and a glass roof to keep guests warm during the winter months. The bar has plenty of chill spots to enjoy a sundowner.

Barge East

Barge East is located in Hackney Wick and offers a dreamy setting for outdoor drinking. Guests can drink on the giant barge perched on the River Lee or in the idyllic awned garden pitched up alongside.

Mama London Shoreditch

Mama London Shoreditch is a new addition to London’s outdoor bar scene. The bar offers a quirky decor, covered seating, and inventive cocktails.

The Gantry

The Gantry is located in Stratford and offers a garden filled with jungle foliage

Practical Tips for Outdoor Drinking in London

When planning to enjoy a drink outdoors in London, it is highly recommended to book your spot in advance. Many of the smaller bars tend to book up quickly, so it’s best to secure your spot days in advance. Additionally, not all outdoor bars are created equal, so it’s important to check whether the space has heating and whether it’s covered, so you can dress accordingly. By following these practical tips, you can ensure a comfortable and enjoyable outdoor drinking experience in London.