Perfect London Pub Gardens: Our Picks for 2019

Summer is almost here – which means it’s time to head outdoors! Beat the heat by taking a load off in one of our favourite pub gardens.

Best Pub Gardens: North London

The Albion, Islington

Close to the hustle and bustle of Upper Street in Islington, The Albion is a gorgeous Georgian venue that boasts cosy fires in the winter months and a surprisingly large garden in which to enjoy the summer sun. Clad in wisteria, the attractive walled garden feels like a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city – the perfect place to spend a relaxing afternoon with friends.

The Faltering Fullback, Finsbury Park

A popular spot for Finsbury Park residents, The Faltering Fullback is famous for two things: the lively, Irish-influenced ambience, and the splendid Thai food. The fact that it has a rather special garden is an additional (and massive) bonus. Though the outdoor space is cosy, thanks to a clever tiered design the garden feels surprisingly spacious, with a good mix of decking and seats. What more could you want on a sunny day?

The Junction Tavern, Tufnell Park

Another favourite with the locals, The Junction is a great home-away-from-home – with one of the best pub gardens in town. The aesthetic isn’t fancy, but it feels welcoming: a mesh of mismatched painted picnic tables, brick walls covered with climbing plants, and heated parasols. Go for the sunshine, stay for the fantastic grilled meats, local ales and the twinkling, fairy-lit conservatory (ideal if the weather takes a turn for the worse).

East London

Pub on the Park, London Fields

When it comes to pub gardens, Pub on the Park has a winning formula: a roomy pub – complete with spacious terrace – in a prime location next to the green expanse of London Fields (meaning that there’s plenty of extra space for visitors to spill out onto, should the garden get too crowded). In addition to the excellent ales on offer, there are projector screens outside on which to catch all the latest sporting action, and resident DJs spinning the latest tunes after dark.

People’s Park Tavern, Hackney

Less a garden, more a miniature park, the People’s Park Tavern offers a great outdoor space for parties and large groups. If you get there early enough, you might even be able to grab one of the pub’s outdoor huts – a fabulous option for catching some shade if the sun is fierce (or sheltering in during a summer downpour!). With an outdoor kitchen, a micro-brewery on site and live music on offer at the weekends, visitors to the People’s Park Tavern can enjoy low-key festival vibes amidst the urban hustle and bustle.

South London

The Avalon, Balham

Loved by South Londoners and tourists alike, the Avalon has one of the classiest pub gardens in the capital. The sprawling outdoor terrace recently underwent a large-scale refurbishment, and now boasts an outdoor bar/kitchen, wooden booths, and huge feasting tables – meaning that, whatever the size of your party, there’s a perfect perch for you. Tuck into one of their acclaimed steaks, sip on al fresco drinks with friends, or simply enjoy a relaxing afternoon in the sun.

Duke of Edinburgh, Brixton

Situated away from the Brixton crowds in a residential street, this atmospheric pub is always buzzing, thanks to its comfy interiors and spacious courtyard garden. The homely vibe is accentuated with hay-covered flooring, rustic log benches, and plenty of delicious smells emanating from the outdoor kitchen, which is run by London street food start-up White Men Can’t Jerk. Bring your appetite: the Caribbean food is not to be missed!

The Half Moon, Herne Hill

Once a famous music venue, now a posh hotel and restaurant, The Half Moon has bags of charm. The large garden is sprawling and full of character, with a fire pit, lots of seating, outdoor games, and a separate outdoor bar/BBQ kitchen. The venue also has an impressive lineage: legend has it that the famous poet Dylan Thomas, who was known to drink here, may have found inspiration for his play Under Milk Wood whilst standing in the pub doorway (from where he would’ve been able to view the nearby ‘Milkwood Road’).

West London

The White Swan, Twickenham

Though not strictly in London, The White Swan is close enough – and special enough – to make our list. A popular celebrity haunt (The White Swan counts Keira Knightley and Keeley Hawes among its regulars), this beautiful historic building is a destination in its own right. Built in the 1600s, the White Swan has a prime position next to the river, and a stunning beer garden overlooking the water. With a great menu and an awesome roster of events – from pub quizzes to live music – the White Swan is an ideal choice for lazy, sunny days and lively nights out.

Windsor Castle, Kensington

If you looked up ‘hidden gem’ in the dictionary, you may well find a picture of Kensington’s Windsor Castle underneath it. Not a castle but a princely pub, this popular venue includes gorgeously cosy, rustic interiors and a tranquil, ivy-strewn garden, complete with heating if the temperature drops.

Looking for another batch of brilliant beer gardens? Check out our earlier blog, ‘Top 7 Best-Rated Beer Gardens in London’, for further inspiration!