The Best Al Fresco Spots in London Town
- Yvette Thomson
- May 9
- 3 min read
by YVETTE THOMSON
Here’s a sizzling summer roundup of London’s most exciting al fresco spots—where the cocktails are cold, the food is hot, and the vibes are immaculate. Whether you’re chasing sun-dappled terraces, rooftop views, or sports-filled beer gardens, this lineup will have you soaking in summer like a pro. Get ready to mark your maps and clear your calendars!
The Dark Horse – Camden’s Best-Kept Secret (Until Now)
Nestled in the Camden Stable block, The Dark Horse is an old-school boozer with serious rock ‘n roll soul. It’s a love letter to British pub culture and the musical legends of Camden, served with vintage pub grub and proper pints. Now with a suntrap terrace, it’s perfect for people-watching in the chaos of Camden Market—whether you’re chasing a pint or a piece of nostalgia.
Try this if: You want a slice of classic Camden with your scotch egg.
PYRÃ – A Mediterranean Hideaway in Queen’s Park
Just off the lively Lonsdale Road, PYRÃ is where Greek sunshine meets Spanish swagger. Led by Chef Mattia Caddeo, expect lamb shoulder, grilled octopus, veal chops, and charcuterie that would make your Yia Yia weep with pride. The secret terrace feels like you’ve stepped into a backstreet taverna—minus the Ryanair flight.
Try this if: You dream in tapas and tan lines.
Flat Iron Square – Sports, Street Food & Summer Feels
Southwark’s social hub, Flat Iron Square, is your go-to for big screens, cold pints, and epic eats. With 16 massive screens (including a monster 16-footer), it’s the best seat in the house for sports fans.
This summer, they’ve levelled up with three street food MVPs:
• Opa: Greek flames by Michelin-starred Yiannis Mexis
• Dough: Neapolitan pizzas from Tom Kemble
• Flock: Next-level fried chicken by Jonas Lodge
Throw in 2-for-1 margaritas every Wednesday, and you’ve got the ultimate summer sesh spot.
Try this if: You want to watch the match with gourmet wings and a lager in each hand.
Omeara x El Rayo Tequila – Rooftop Vibes & Tequila Dreams
Tucked near London Bridge, Omeara’s new summer terrace collab with El Rayo Tequila brings the heat. Expect Shard views, golden-hour cocktails, and a soundtrack that says “Vamos!” without trying too hard. This rooftop is sunshine therapy with a citrus twist—think salted rims, blue skies, and dancing if you stay long enough.
Try this if: You believe the best views come with tequila.
The Churchill Bar & Terrace – Cacao, Cocktails & Canopy Bliss
Marylebone’s luxurious Churchill Bar has gone full jungle this summer with its Cacao Verde Terrace—an Amazonian escape bursting with greenery and a cacao-inspired cocktail menu that’s pure magic. Twelve boundary-pushing drinks spotlight the cacao plant in wild, inventive forms—from Nigeria’s zobo soda fizz to Brazil’s tequila-chocolate cream delight.
Try this if: You want cocktails that could win science prizes.
Marceline Wine Bar & Terrace – French Fancy on the Wharf
Floating gracefully on Canary Wharf’s Wood Wharf, Marceline is pure Parisian elegance.
Launching May 22, its new Wine Bar and Restaurant Terrace are ready to serve sunlit oysters, Champagne, and a sommelier-picked Wine of the Week. Expect truffle soufflés, charcuterie boards, and - on Tuesdays - an oyster and a glass of fizz for a tenner (during Oyster Happy Hour).
With further weekly specials like Marceline's Vintage Wine Mondays and Champagne Trolley Hour, you’ll be très content.
Try this if: You want to toast summer with bubbles and brie.
Which of these summery spots are you most tempted to visit first?
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