Now I really don’t want to jinx it for us but it seems as though the weather has finally read the room and decided to cooperate, so you know what that means: all across the city, Londoners are slapping on their factor 50 and flocking to their nearest rooftop bars, beer gardens, and outdoor terraces.
Dining al fresco really is one of life’s simple pleasures, and we’re about to make it even more pleasurable for you because rather than leaving you to trawl through the depths of the internet, we’ve conveniently rounded up the very best summer terraces in London for you to make a dash for in the rare moments that the temperature rises to these kinds of temperatures. I know, we’re very kind.
Table Of Contents
Summer terraces in central London
1. Dalloway Terrace
We simply had to kick off our list of the best summer terraces in London with the flower-filled haven that is Dalloway Terrace. You’ve probably seen it all over your Instagram feed already, and for good reason: it’s the perfect summer spot for sipping drinks and snapping pics.
📍 16-22 Great Russell Street, WC1B 3NN
2. Sparrow Italia
Situated in the heart of Mayfair, Sparrow serves up some of the finest Italian food alongside some of the finest vibes in the city. Their gorgeous roof terrace is a perfect spot to sip on one of their show-stopping cocktails whilst enjoying a front row seat to watch the sunset.
📍 1-3 Avery Row, W1K 4AJ
3. Pantechnicon Roof Garden
Pantechnicon’s top-floor roof garden offers the perfect botanical oasis for you to escape from the busy streets of London. Sensational Scandi vibes, scrumptious cocktails, and a stunning view over the streets of Belgravia. Count us in!
📍 19 Motcomb Street, SW1X 8LB
4. The Arber Garden
Summer 2023 will mark The Arber Garden‘s second year in its Fitzrovia home. This serene space is brimming with foliage and will make you completely forget that you’re just a stone’s throw away from the hustle and bustle of Oxford Street. Let the rosé and the good times flow.
📍 1 Pearson Square, W1W 7EY
5. Cavo London
Next up on our list of the best summer terraces in London is Cavo, a fairly recent addition to London’s al fresco dining scene. You can feast on their mouth-watering Mediterranean menu whilst basking in some summertime sunshine and gazing at the jaw-dropping views over central London. Sounds pretty perfect to me.
6. La Terrasse
Get ready to be transported straight to the French Riviera this summer at La Terrasse. Situated within the luxurious Sofitel London St James hotel, this central London terrace boasts all of the elegance and grandiose of the South of France with none of the stress of having to locate your passport. What more could you ask for?
📍 46 Waterloo Place, St. James’s, SW1Y 4AN
7. Hush Mayfair
Mayfair’s hidden gem, Hush, brings the holiday vibes straight to the heart of Zone 1. Their charming cobbled courtyard, often hailed as the best outdoor dining space in London, is just moments from Bond Street station and well worth a visit.
📍 8 Lancashire Court, W1S 1EY
8. Morena
Nestled away inside Eccleston Yards, Morena is an all-day dining restaurant serving Latin-American inspired dishes and cocktails with a contemporary twist. A gorgeously warm and cosy atmosphere and a total hub for people-watching.
📍 10-11 Eccleston Yards, SW1W 9AZ
9. Casa Do Frango
Casa Do Frango‘s terrace boasts its very own stage which showcases live music throughout the summer. With a menu just as gorgeous as the atmosphere, this Piccadilly terrace will transport you straight to the streets of Portugal.
📍 31-33 Heddon St, W1B 4BL
10. AllBright
This summer, AllBright is bringing Mexico to Mayfair with their Tulum-inspired transformation. This sun-drenched, fourth-floor terrace is the perfect setting for you to sip margaritas and snack on seasonal summer favourites.
📍 24-26 Maddox Street, W1S 1PP
Summer terraces in north London
11. The Lighterman
Contemporary pub and dining room, The Lighterman, is located in the heart of King’s Cross. It offers a casual, relaxed setting spanning across three unique outdoor spaces, so you can admire a different view each time you visit.
📍 3 Granary Square, N1C 4BH
12. Granary Square Brasserie
Another al fresco gem of King’s Cross is Granary Square Brasserie. As well as the gorgeous views across Regent’s Canal and the Granary Square fountains, guests can enjoy an extensive menu and live DJs and entertainment.
📍 1 Granary Square, N1C 4AB
13. Rotunda
It turns out that Mexico is the place to be this summer (who knew?) as another restaurant is transforming its terrace into a tropical, Tulum-inspired oasis. This time it’s Rotunda who are bringing the bohemian-chic vibes of Mexico right to London’s canalside.
📍 90 York Way, N1 9AG
14. Double Standard
Double Standard, the sun-soaked bar and terrace you’ll find at The Standard Hotel, serves up delicious burgers, quirky London underground-inspired decor, and are known to serve Aperol spritz slushies. Sign me up, immediately.
📍 Ground Floor, The Standard, 10 Argyle Street, WC1H 8EG
15. The Castle
Standing proud on Pentonville Road, The Castle‘s charming rooftop is a go-to spot in Islington if you’re looking for a great atmosphere and a great pint.
📍 54 Pentonville Road, N1 9HF
16. Parrillan
Located in the ever-so-trendy Coal Drops Yard, Parrillan is a beautiful covered terrace that boasts lovely riverside views and celebrates all things Spanish.
📍 Coal Drops Yard, Stable Street, N1C 4AB
17. Common Ground
Neighbourhood favourite, Common Ground, is a laid-back eatery serving up globally-inspired food and drink. Their terrace is adorned with plants and is quite frankly a wonderful option for your next al fresco meet-up.
📍 49 Stroud Green Road, Finsbury Park, N4 3EF
18. Fatto A Mano
If you’re looking for friendly service, affordable (and delicious) pizza, and a great selection of craft beers, look no further than Fatto A Mano. Round up your pals and go and fill your boots with pizza in the sunshine.
📍 Unit 1, 3 Pancras Square, N1C 4AG
19. Hoppers
Yet another King’s Cross hot spot, Hoppers is a Sri Lankan restaurant inspired by the coastal journey from Colombo to Galle. Their menu is full of bar bites, seafood grills and beach-side snacks, all of which can be washed down with an array of colourful and tropical drinks.
📍 Unit 3, 4 Pancras Square, N1C 4AG
20. German Gymnasium
Rounding up the best summer terraces in north London is the ultimate crowd-pleaser that is German Gymnasium. Their outdoor terrace is open for all-day dining with a Mittel-European-inspired menu, including all the traditional German dishes and beer you could hope for.
📍1 King’s Boulevard, N1C 4BU
Summer terraces in east London
21. Laurel’s On The Roof
Laurel’s On The Roof brings all the glitz and glamour of LA to a rooftop terrace in Shoreditch. We’re talking classic Californian dishes, 70s-inspired glassware, and an actual swimming pool. Sounds cool, right?
📍 45 Curtain Road, EC2A 3PT
22. Aviary London
The next entry on our list of the very best summer terraces in London is Aviary, a rooftop bar that has just launched its Whispering Angel Rosé Sky Terrace. Sun-drenched golden hours spent sipping rosé in the sky? I’ll happily drink to that.
📍 22-25 Finsbury Square, EC2A 1DX
23. The Sipping Room
The Sipping Room is found just moments away from West India Quay station and boasts a large terrace overlooking the docks. With seasonal menus, tempting cocktails, and idyllic botanical decor; this gorgeous spot is perfect for all occasions, from working lunches to romantic dinners, and everything in between.
📍 West India Quay, 16 Hertsmere Road, E14 4AX
24. The Light Bar
Spread over three floors of an iconic power station in Shoreditch, The Light Bar has created a fun space where the food is generous and the drinks are flowing.
📍 233 Shoreditch High Street, E1 6PJ
25. Mrs Fogg’s Dockside Drinkery & Distillery
This renowned nautical-themed cocktail bar is inspired by travels from India to London on a Victorian steamship. Mrs Fogg’s Dockside Drinkery & Distillery features an extensive selection of beers, wines, punches, and cocktails, all of which can be enjoyed in the glorious outdoor seating area.
📍 37 Broadgate, London EC2M 2QS
26. Old Bengal Bar
Old Bengal Bar is a super chic cocktail bar found inside a beautiful Grade II-listed building near Liverpool Street. They pride themselves on offering outstanding cocktails, a superb menu and impeccable service.
📍 16a New Street, EC2M 4TR
27. Coppa Club
Coppa Club is the proud owner of those all-year-round igloos that we’ve all seen glistening on the riverbank. With their seasonal decor and their astonishing views of London’s skyline, they were a total shoo-in for a place on this list.
📍 3 Three Quays Walk, Lower Thames Street, EC3R 6AH
28. Union Social
Head to the first floor of The Gantry Hotel and you’ll find Union Social. From quiet corners and working lunches to expertly mixed cocktails and late-night DJ sets; there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
📍 40 Celebration Avenue, East Village, E20 1DB
29. Five Points Courtyard
Be one of the first people to pay a visit to Hackey’s newest summer hotspot, Five Points Courtyard. Opening its doors on May 18, this sun-soaked courtyard will be bursting at the seams with delicious food, delicious drinks, and delicious vibes.
📍 61 Mare Street, E8 4RG
30. Clays Bar
There’s a new kid (well, terrace) on the block in the form of The Terrace on the Thames at Clays Canary Wharf. This brand-spanking new terrace is the perfect spot for guests to sit and socialise before heading inside to put their clay shooting skills to the test.
📍 Unit B1 on the wharf, 1 Cabot Square, E14 4QJ
Summer terraces in south London
31. Seabird
Hopping south of the river, you’ll find Seabird – a jaw-droppingly gorgeous roof terrace that’s not only host to some of the best views in the city but also to the longest oyster list in London. Pretty impressive, hey?
📍 14th Floor, South Bank, 40 Blackfriars Road, SE1 8NY
32. No 32 The Old Town
For the next entry on the list of the best summer terraces in London, we’re heading to trendy ol’ Clapham. No 32 The Old Town is a lively neighbourhood hang-out with a cosy first-floor roof terrace, overlooking Clapham Common. Delightful!
📍 32 The Pavement, SW4 0JF
33. The Garden Museum Café
The more green-fingered amongst us should consider paying a visit to The Garden Museum Café which is found – you guessed it – inside The Garden Museum. Spend the day wandering around this delightful church-turned-museum and then finish it off with a trip to their award-winning café.
📍 5 Lambeth Palace Road, SE1 7LB
34. Fiume
Fiume serves up delicious Italian cuisine on their gorgeous Amalfi Coast-inspired outdoor terrace. Fiume’s terrace boasts views of Battersea Power Station and the River Thames, so you can sit and watch the boats go by with a refreshing cocktail in hand.
📍 Battersea Power Station, Circus West Village, SW8 5BN
35. Cantina Del Ponte
Cantina Del Ponte is a traditional Italian trattoria right on the riverside. Sensational views of Tower Bridge and pasta served straight from the cheese wheel? I’ll race you there.
📍 36c Shad Thames, SE1 2YE
36. The Laundry
Now we’re off to Brixton and heading straight to The Laundry, an all-day bistro, serving cracking cocktails, sensational Sunday roasts, and an awesome atmosphere.
📍374 Coldharbour Lane, SW9 8PL
37. Trivet
Next up on the list of the best terraces in London is a boujee one, don’t say I didn’t warn you. Trivet is a recently awarded Michelin star restaurant that oozes class, sophistication and a very appealing outdoor terrace. I was fortunate enough to pay a visit to Trivet to sample a selection of dishes from their terrace menu and to say it was delicious is an understatement. The service, the setting, the scrummy food and (of course) the sensational wine were all the perfect level of fancy-but-not-in-a-pretentious-way and made for a truly wonderful afternoon.
📍 36 Snowsfields, SE1 3SU
38. 12th Knot
On the rooftop of the Sea Containers hotel, you’ll find 12th Knot, a terrace with an atmosphere as bright and vibrant as the South Bank on which it sits.
📍 20 Upper Ground, SE1 9PD
39. Forza Wine
Over in Peckham, you’ll find the sun-soaked terrace belonging to Forza Wine. Expect scrumptious snacks, delectable drinks, and a pretty lovely view as well.
📍 133A Rye Lane, SE15 4BQ
40. Limin Southbank
We’re wrapping up South London’s section of this round-up with another visit to the (hopefully) sunny South Bank. Limin specialises in bringing a lesser known Caribbean cuisine to London’s table: food from the twin islands Trinidad and Tobago. Located moments from the Thames, this riverside spot boasts true beach club vibes, and is a real oasis amidst the concrete jungle.
📍 56 Upper Ground, SE1 9PP
Summer terraces in west London
41. King’s House
You certainly won’t regret paying a visit to Chelsea’s secret garden, King’s House. An oasis of greenery and the perfect backdrop for some summery socialising.
📍 541 King’s Road, SW6 2EB
42. Aerial Rooftop
Another wonderful best London terrace comes in the form of Aerial Rooftop. A space for chilling during the day and partying during the night, alongside stunning views over White City.
📍 89 Wood Lane, W12 7FA
43. The Ivy Chelsea Garden
Escape the stress of London life and let The Ivy Chelsea Garden transport you to an oasis of calm and tranquility. An all-day menu as luscious as their garden foliage, and all-day good vibes to go alongside.
📍 195-197 King’s Road, SW3 5EQ
44. Beach Blanket Babylon
Located in a prominent old Georgian Mansion in the heart of Notting Hill, Beach Blanket Babylon offers an elaborate dining experience in their ultra-elegant, rococo-inspired restaurant and terrace.
📍 45 Ledbury Road, W11 2AA
45. Darcie & May Green
Now, this one is guaranteed to float your boat. Darcie & May Green are two pop-art barges sat side by side on the Grand Union Canal. Darcie is the perfect setting for al fresco dining, serving delicious Aussie dishes, whilst May, open all day, transforms into a buzzing bar with cracking cocktails and an even-more-cracking atmosphere.
📍 Grand Union Canal, Sheldon Square, W2 6DS
46. Studio Frantzén
Studio Frantzen is located at the top of Harrods so surely, it must be good. With their effortlessly luxurious setting and their sweeping views over the city; it’s definitely worth a visit.
📍 87-135 Brompton Road, Knightsbridge, SW1X 7XL
47. The Orangery at Number Sixteen
Nestled peacefully on Sumner Place, The Orangery at Number Sixteen is a garden adorned with beautiful mulberry trees and blooming hydrangeas. With a delicious seasonal menu and wine list to go with it, what’s not to love?
📍16 Sumner Place, South Kensington, SW7 3EG
48. Bluebird
Bluebird is a stylish all-day café and restaurant in the heart of Chelsea, serving up modern European cuisine and cocktails on a sun-flooded outdoor terrace. The restaurant’s sister café in White City is also open for outdoor dining.
📍 350 King’s Road, SW3 5UU
49. The Counter
Our penultimate entry on the list of the very best summer terraces in London is The Counter. This chef-driven restaurant focusses on open-fire charcoal grilling and is the perfect place to spend a warm summer evening in Notting Hill.
📍 108 Golborne Road,W10 5PS
50. Petersham Nurseries
Last, but by no means least is the gloriously green Petersham Nurseries. Take a stroll around the garden centre and finish it off with a nice cuppa in the picturesque pergola. I promise that it’s well worth venturing the length of the District Line for.
📍 Petersham Road, Church Lane, TW10 7AB