Bars

The 5 Best Beer Gardens in London

Sun traps, riverside terraces and leafy hideaways: the best beer gardens in London for a sunny day.

In short: our top picks are The Spaniards Inn, The Edinboro Castle and The Faltering Fullback. 5 places in total, chosen on merit, with the full reasoning below.

The moment the sun comes out, London heads for a beer garden, and the best are worth knowing before everyone else gets there. From riverside terraces to leafy hidden courtyards and rooftop sun traps, these are the best beer gardens in London for a long, lazy afternoon in the sun.

Place Area Price
The Spaniards Inn Hampstead ££
The Edinboro Castle Camden ££
The Faltering Fullback Finsbury Park ££
The Albion Islington £££
The Garden Gate Hampstead ££
  1. Editor’s choice

    The Spaniards Inn

    • Hampstead
    • ££

    Why we pick itA historic coaching inn by the Heath with a glorious garden; the classic walk-and-pint destination.

  2. The Edinboro Castle

    • Camden
    • ££

    Why we pick itA huge, leafy Camden garden that fills the moment the sun is out; barbecues, fairy lights and a buzz.

  3. The Faltering Fullback

    • Finsbury Park
    • ££

    Why we pick itA magical tiered jungle of a garden hidden behind an Irish pub; one of London's great secret sun traps.

  4. The Albion

    • Islington
    • £££

    Why we pick itA handsome Georgian pub with a wisteria-draped walled garden; the prettiest beer garden in north London.

  5. The Garden Gate

    • Hampstead
    • ££

    Why we pick itA cosy Hampstead pub with a lovely terraced garden; the spot for a drink after the Heath.

Before you book

Beer gardens fill the instant the sun appears, so go early to claim a table, especially at weekends. Many do not take bookings for the garden, so be ready to wait or grab a spot and hold it. And check whether they do food; the best make an afternoon of it.

Common questions

What are the top picks in this guide?

The Spaniards Inn is our editor's choice: A historic coaching inn by the Heath with a glorious garden; the classic walk-and-pint destination. The Spaniards Inn, The Edinboro Castle and The Faltering Fullback lead the guide, with 5 places in total, all chosen on merit.

How does Lamplit London choose its recommendations?

Every place is chosen on merit, after first-hand visits where possible, with no pay-for-placement. Read our full method at https://www.lamplitlondon.com/how-we-choose/.