Top 12 Best Beer Gardens in London
Beer gardens are the ideal way to make the most of the capital's few hot days. However, it is not always sunny in London, so thankfully, many beer gardens in ... read more...London have canopies and heaters to keep you warm and dry even in the mildest of climates. Nothing beats a cold drink in the hot sun with your friends or colleagues, whether it's a corporate or a personal event. Here is a list of the best beer gardens in London.
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The Albion is a warm and friendly pub located in the heart of the city, minutes from St Paul's. The venue comes complete with two stylish floors; the ground floor pub exudes a modern, comfy feel, while the upstairs bar is a little more traditional and is perfect for hosting private functions of all varieties.
This Georgian boozer, located halfway between Upper Street and the Caledonian Road, exudes an olde-worlde English charm that is entirely appropriate for its name. It's far enough away from major thoroughfares that there's barely any traffic noise to be heard in its walled beer garden, complete with trees and colorful flowers. Beer drinkers usually have a traditional draught selection to choose from, there's a short list of cocktails, and a quality beer list complements a menu strewn with British ingredients.
The venue also offers an extensive wine list and a selection of award winning ales and continental lagers that are worth the visit alone. There's also plenty of mouth-watering options to tuck into if you're hungry. In the summer, keep an eye out for barbecues in the garden. The Albion can be considered something of a sports fan's haven; with all the big fixtures broadcast across the venue on plasma screens, right throughout the week.
The Albion is a welcoming beer garden, conveniently located for after-work drinks and with the kind of sporting coverage that make it one of the best places to catch the game in the city.
- Google Rating: 4.0/5.0
- Opening Hours: Mon 12:00 PM - 11:00 PM, Sun 12:00 PM - 10:30 PM
- Phone: +44 20 7607 7450
- Website: https://www.the-albion.co.uk/
- Address: 10 Thornhill Rd, London N1 1HW
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The Alwyne Castle is well worth a visit if you're looking for a quirky and affordable pub close to Highbury Fields and the Emirates Stadium. This popular bar in the bustling heart of Highbury has a distinctly traditional feel, with wood-paneling, period features, and a roaring open fire.
The menu is traditional British pub fare, and the bar is always well stocked with premium drinks such as craft beers, fine wines, and artisan spirits. The pub hosts a regular quiz night, and a private conservatory area can be reserved for events. But the highlight of this venue is its expansive beer garden, which wraps around the entire structure and provides the ideal spot for sun-kissed drinks and alfresco dining.
There's plenty of room for alfresco drinking in this welcoming pub's massive front garden, which spills down the sides. Summer barbecues and upmarket gastro-grub from the indoor kitchen can be used to soak up the booze. Looking out onto the main Islington artery, the garden is undeniably 'urban', but this is offset somewhat by foliage, bunting and a jaunty colour scheme. The garden can hold 300, so bring your north London crew.
- Google Rating: 4.0/5.0
- Opening Hours: Mon to Sun 12:00 PM - 12:00 AM
- Phone: +44 20 7359 7351
- Website: https://www.thealwynecastleislington.co.uk/
- Address: 83 St Paul's Rd, Greater, London N1 2LY
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Nestled in a quiet residential street away from Greenwich's tourist centre, the Ashburnham Arms provides a comfy, cozy retreat from the crowds. Found in the famous Ashburnham triangle, off Greenwich High Road, it’s been serving the local community since 1850 - warmly welcoming visitors who seek a proper pub experience off the beaten track. This pub nicely bridges the gap between the contemporary bar and old-fashioned local.
The perfect place for a memorable meal or a refreshing drink with friends in summer, there’s a lovely patio to the front and a large garden to the back - while a charming conservatory area floods the pub with light all year round. Guests here are greeted with a traditional pub, serving hearty home-cooked food, wines and award-winning real ales from Britain’s oldest brewery.
And if you’re looking for somewhere to celebrate a special occasion, the Ashburnham Arms is able to host up to 100 people in the garden for a private summer barbecue event, or up to 50 people in the bar area.
- Google Rating: 4.6/5.0
- Opening Hours: Mon to Fri 4:00 PM - 12:00 AM, Sat 12:00 PM - 12:00 AM, Sun 12:00 PM - 11:00 AM
- Phone: +44 20 8355 5141
- Website: https://www.ashburnham-arms.co.uk/
- Address: 25 Ashburnham Grove, London SE10 8UH
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The County Arms, one of the best beer gardens in London, is a historic pub standing on the edge of Wandsworth Common since 1852. With original Victorian charm throughout, the pub features many beautiful areas including a traditional bar, a cosy lounge- both with roaring fireplaces- and two gorgeous private hire spaces.
Whether you are popping in for a quick pint and bite to eat, dining with friends and loved ones, having a romantic dinner or sipping cocktails by the fire, the pub has the perfect space for you. You can enjoy al fresco drinks and dining year round in this glorious beer garden, with heaters and cover from the elements.
The beer garden is a tranquil haven, complete with deckchairs, faux turf, large leafy planters for privacy and shade, and outdoor heaters and parasols for the unpredictable British weather. Outside, there's also a summer barbecue station to supplement the menu of bar snacks and gastropub fare. If you're not hungry, what are you doing? Simply order one of the half-dozen Young's ales and guest hand pulls on tap, or a glass of bubbly.
- Google Rating: 4.2/5.0
- Opening Hours: Mon to Sat 12:00 PM - 11:00 PM, Sun 12:00 PM - 10:30 PM
- Phone: +44 20 8874 8532
- Website: https://www.countyarms.co.uk/
- Address: 345 Trinity Rd, London SW18 3SH
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The Crown and Shuttle is a popular hangout for a diverse range of Shoreditch residents, and it is one of the busiest pubs in the area. First opened in 1885 as a run-of-the-mill pub, the Crown and Shuttle changed, facilitated by the growing criminal activity in the area, that resulted in it becoming a strip club as recent as 2001 when it was closed. According to the Londonist, the pub was reopened in 2013 as a "modern retro pub" aimed at younger customers. There is a beer garden in the back, as well as an open space with a tarp overhead and a food truck.
The large beer garden and wide selection of craft ales make it popular with a wide range of East London punters, and it works just as well for a relaxed afternoon drink as a buzzing Saturday night out. The pub operates a burger van from its cheery, decked suntrap of the beer garden, with food very much geared towards summer sharing – try a bowl of cumin-coated chips or crisp-skinned hot wings.
The venue welcomes families with small children because it has an indoor play area and a great kids menu to keep their bellies happy. They have live music sessions, and their regular offering of live sports on 8 large screens makes the Crown an ideal gathering spot for any sporting event. It also has a large private function room that can be reserved for conferences and other special occasions.
- Google Rating: 4.2/5.0
- Opening Hours: Mon to Wed 11:00 AM - 11:00 PM, Thu to Sat 11:00 AM - 01:00 AM, Sun 12:00 PM - 10:30 PM
- Phone: +44 20 7375 2905
- Website: https://www.crownandshuttle.com/
- Address: 226 Shoreditch High St, London E1 6PJ
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Recently renovated, the Earl of Essex provides a lovely environment to catch up with friends or have a drink after work. The extensive renovation has created a relaxed atmosphere where the whole family will feel welcome and be able to relax amongst the beautiful decor. Located on Danbury Street, Angel, the Earl of Essex is only a minute walk from Upper Street and Angel tube station with Essex Road Station also only a short walk away.
From the outside, you might not realize that there’s a sweet ivy-covered walled garden to make a beeline for when the sun is shining, with lots of tables to sit at. On a summer’s day, head to this walled garden with its hops-filled plant pots, colorful bunting, a hodge-podge of picnic tables, and friendly vibe.
The regularly changing line-up of craft offerings is beer-nerd heaven, with nearly a dozen on keg, five or six on cask, plus a couple of quality ciders. The food is entirely agreeable, focused more on the gastropub guests than those looking for simple pub grub, and the woody, bright décor is immediately comfortable. Combine all this with a nice little beer garden at the back of the premises and you can begin to understand this pub’s appeal.- Google Rating: 4.4/5.0
- Opening Hours: Sun to Thu 12:00 PM - 11:00 PM, Fri to Sat 12:00 PM - 12:00 AM
- Phone: +44 20 7424 5828
- Website: https://www.earlofessex.net/
- Address: 25 Danbury St, London N1 8LE
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It's difficult to find a good place in Finsbury Park to enjoy serene, green views while drinking a pint. Down a quiet backstreet, however, you'll find this charming local boozer, drenched in ivy, with a rather magical back garden complete with a multi-tiered, boozy tree house.
The interior of the Faltering Fullback is also multi-layered, with a couple of bars, a large back room, and a pool table. Sport is a passion here, so you can pick up a cue or watch the game on TV, but there's also a well-stocked jukebox, a hotly contested weekly quiz, and a wealth of 'ceiling inspiration' curios hanging up above. The wine list is perfectly drinkable, and the adequate beer selection is served by bartenders who practice unhurried hospitality.
While there are definitely bigger beer gardens to be found in the capital, the outdoor space at this well-loved, ivy-covered local is certainly one of the cleverest. Come here in an early-afternoon suntrap in which to sip a cold lager from a mainstream bar that includes the likes of Amstel, Heineken, and Leffe. This is probably the best outdoor space to get drunk in London. Best because it has loads of different areas for groups big or small, and they serve pretty good Thai food, such as stir-fries, curries and noodles.
- Google Rating: 4.5/5.0
- Opening Hours: Mon to Sat 12:00 PM - 11:00 PM, Sun 12:00 PM - 10:30 PM
- Phone: +44 20 7272 5834
- Website: http://falteringfullback.com/
- Address: 19 Perth Rd, Finsbury Park, London N4 3HB
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The Junction Tavern, one of the best beer gardens in London, is an imposing Victorian building in the heart of North London. Dating back to 1885, the main bar and dining room reflects its late Victorian heyday, but with all the modern comfort and facilities of a great British pub. In fine weather, the secluded paved garden, with its scattering of painted picnic tables, heated parasols, and climber-covered walls, is an awesome spot for a leisurely pint or a bite to eat. If summer disappoints, or the temperature drops, head for the fairy-lit conservatory instead.
The Junction Tavern has exploded into the consciousness of local foodies and ale-tasters over the years. Its fantastic atmospheric balance of traditional British pub and destination restaurant continues to grow and strengthen as a result of a devoted following. Menus are frequently changed to take advantage of the best seasonal and local ingredients, and this passion for quality and attention to detail extends beyond the kitchen.
The dining room is light and airy. The bar area is warm and friendly with a stunning bar top and original fireplace. The conservatory with its view of the lovely beer garden is available for parties, weddings and meetings. Hip, elegant but very down to earth, whether you are dining or drinking, the result is always the same. A great experience and a team of friendly faces to look after you. The Junction's entire ambiance strives for relaxed and comfortable perfection.
- Google Rating: 4.1/5.0
- Opening Hours: Mon to Thu 5:00 PM - 11:00 PM, Fri to Sat 12:00 PM - 12:00 AM, Sun 12:00 PM - 11:00 AM
- Phone: +44 20 7485 9400
- Website: https://www.junctiontavern.co.uk/
- Address: 101 Fortess Rd, London NW5 1AG
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Set in the historic village of Blackmore, you’ll find The Leather Bottle in picturesque surroundings. With a pretty exterior and a village green just opposite, The Leather Bottle takes pride of place in the local community and stands out as an unpretentious yet impressive foodie destination.
During the summer, The Leather Bottle's beautiful beer garden is alive with the clink of glasses and the hum of friendly conversation. It's the ideal spot for al fresco dining; beautifully secluded, it gives diners a sense of intimacy while they enjoy the sunshine. In the colder months and on rainy days, the pub's stylish and modern interior is a welcome sight. The bar serves award-winning real ale, cider, and lager, as well as fine wine from around the world and more than 50 gins. If you're not sure what to try, the helpful staff is always available to assist you.
The menu changes on a regular basis to take advantage of local seasonal produce, but rest assured that there is always an option to suit all tastes on this well-thought-out menu. You can begin with Lambton & Jackson smoked salmon with spicy avocado and bread, or a vegetarian favorite like goat's cheese salad with roasted beets, pickled golden beets, and rocket. Main courses range from wild mushroom linguine and sumptuous fish pie to classic fish and chips, burgers, and a great selection of steaks.
Whether you’re stopping by to take advantage of the great-value gastropub cuisine on offer, or simply fancy a few drinks in the comfy bar area, The Leather Bottle is well worth a visit. There’s ample parking for those coming from further afield and a warm welcome is always guaranteed.
- Google Rating: 4.2/5.0
- Opening Hours: Mon to Sun 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM
- Phone: +44 20 8946 2309
- Website: https://www.leatherbottlepub.co.uk/
- Address: 538 Garratt Ln, London SW17 0NY
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The Leyton Star has been serving the people of Leyton for over 5 years, opening its doors back in July of 2016. The venue has been fully rejuvenated with the Electric Star group's signature brand of community hangouts packed with personality, and bursting with great food, cracking booze and a huge dose of mischief.
Fine wines, craft beers and cocktails are all on the menu at the Leyton Star. The pub offers a number of weekly promotions including Thursday night's 'two for one' cocktail offer, as well as housing a great selection of wines, kegs, cask ales and lagers. They have a programme of monthly tasting sessions and cocktail masterclasses that will feature as part of a fun-packed programme of events which includes Tuesday quizzes, DJs, sports screenings and everyone's favourite Lucky Voice Karaoke.
The beer garden has the sprawling outdoor terrace at the rear decked out with two golden palm tree light fixtures and series of wooden booths complete with heating lamps. There’s a serviceable range of beers and ales on tap from the likes of Camden Town and Signature. You can also sink into the velvet banquettes, gaze over the huge oval hardwood bar, or enjoy lounging in one of their outdoor covered terrace spots.- Google Rating: 4.4/5.0
- Opening Hours: Mon to Wed 4:00 PM - 11:00 PM, Thu 4:00 PM - 12:00 AM, Fri 4:00 PM - 01:00 AM, Sat 12:00 PM - 01:00 AM, Sun 12:00 PM - 11:00 PM
- Phone: +44 20 8454 7126
- Website: https://leytonstar.co.uk/
- Address: 116 High Rd Leyton, London E15 2BX
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The People's Park Tavern is a village pub and brewery in East London's Victoria Park, serving hearty, traditional pub food as well as a selection of its own brewed People's Pints. The PPT features indoor and outdoor bars, a great craft beer selection (including those brewed in-house), a BBQ kitchen, hearty Sunday Roasts from September to April, and a varied events program. Beer is taken quite seriously here, they brew their recipe beers to the more experimental flavors.
During the summer, People's Park Tavern transforms into an open-air hacienda-style garden with rows of picnic benches for sunbathing. In the winter, it is transformed into a covered woodland paradise, complete with a fully heated 'Greenhaus' that brings the outdoors inside. The main room is casually furnished, with lounging sofas, wooden benches, and stonking nozzle lampshades that appear to have fallen from a passing space shuttle. To the east is a more sophisticated dining area.
This glorious sun-drenched garden backs onto London's vast Victoria Park, and the plant life of this public space spills into the beer garden, creating a lovely space with plenty of greenery. In contrast to this abundance of green wildlife, two-thirds of this circular garden is surrounded by brightly coloured heated cabana huts, perfect for groups to snuggle up in and take shelter from the stray cloud. The People's Park Tavern is definitely one of the best beer gardens in London.
- Google Rating: 4.0/5.0
- Opening Hours: Sun to Thu 12:00 PM - 12:00 AM, Fri 12:00 PM - 01:00 AM, Sat 11:00 AM - 02:00 AM
- Phone: +44 20 8533 0040
- Website: https://www.peoplesparktavern.pub/
- Address: 360 Victoria Park Rd, London E9 7BT
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The Scolt Head takes its name from an offshore barrier island in Norfolk. Which is quite fitting really, as the pub is a sort of island – a peaceful retreat, floating amid the busy streets of Dalston. Decor-wise, it’s got a charming, rustic feel – reclaimed wood trestle tables and chairs sit alongside well-loved leather Chestertons, and multi-colored bunting lines the ceiling.
Outside, on the other hand, is a big, overgrown beer garden, perfect for the warmer months. Regardless of the weather, it makes for truly lovely surroundings. If you ask nicely enough, the always friendly staff have been known to hand out a hot water bottle or two where necessary.
For drinks, they serve a small but well-considered selection of real ale and craft beers, with a pint of Green King IPA coming in at £3.10, and a pint of Trumans Runner priced at £3.20. Enjoy a crisp glass of vino for under £4 – prices generally unheard of in this part of town, particularly for an independent pub with as much character as this one.
The food here is classic and very well done. As of July 2020, The Scolt Head went into partnership with esteemed Portuguese chef Nuno Mendes who has designed a brand new brunch menu, including his famous Piri Piri chicken, and outrageously delicious olive oil cake. Other reasons to visit The Scolt Head include a quiz night on Mondays, as well as regular live music nights.
- Google Rating: 4.5/5.0
- Opening Hours: Sun to Wed 12:00 PM - 11:00 PM, Thu to Sat 12:00 PM - 12:00 AM
- Phone: +44 20 7254 3965
- Website: https://www.thescolthead.co.uk/
- Address: 107A Culford Rd, London N1 4HT