Places To Day Drink Around London
Leisurely summer days blessed with sunshine mean more time to indulge in summer staples like an afternoon in a beer garden, honouring the London tradition of standing outside the local pub with some friends and a pint or enjoying a slushie walking through Mayfair. A tipple in the afternoon can sometimes sound more inviting than a night out on the town, and if that seems more your speed, here are the best places around to have a little day drink.
JOIA Rooftop, Battersea
Perched above Battersea Power Station, JOIA Rooftop combines panoramic London views with Portuguese-inspired food and cocktails. One of the capital’s most striking rooftop settings, it’s ideal for long lunches that drift into sunset drinks.
Where: 15th Floor, 1 Electric Blvd, Nine Elms, London SW11 8BJ
Website: www.joiabattersea.co.uk
Madison, St Paul’s
Madison remains one of London’s classic rooftop drinking spots. This summer, the terrace is hosting a Casamigos tequila partnership complete with a create-your-own margarita experience, plus regular live music and Ibiza-inspired events overlooking St Paul’s Cathedral.
Where: 1 New Change, London, EC4M 9AF
Website: madisonlondon.net
Coq d’Argent, Bank
Few rooftops rival Coq d’Argent for City skyline views. Expect French Riviera-inspired lunches, Mirabeau rosé, handcrafted cocktails and Friday-night DJs high above the Square Mile.
Where: 1 Poultry, London, EC2R 8EJ
Website: coqdargent.co.uk
The Broadcaster, White City
The Broadcaster offers one of west London’s most attractive rooftop terraces, perfect for afternoon cocktails and sunset drinks after exploring Television Centre.
Where: 89 Wood Lane London, W12 7FX
Website: www.thebroadcaster.co.uk
Harry’s Covent Garden
There are many spots to stop in Covent Garden, but none boast the Italian atmosphere Harry’s brings through it’s crafted drinks best enjoyed on their fantastic terrace. Sit with a Campari Spritz or just a nicely poured pint while sitting to people watch in Covent Garden.
Where: 1-12 Russell St, London WC2B 5HZ
Website: harrysdolcevita.com
Kitty Hawk, Trafalgar Square
This summer, Kitty Hawk has transformed its rooftop terrace into a French Riviera-inspired escape in partnership with ST-GERMAIN. Expect elderflower & Hugo Spritzes, floral margaritas and sweeping views over Trafalgar Square.
Where: 8 St. Martin’s Pl, London WC2N 4JH
Website: etmcollection.co.uk
Flute, Soho
Perched above Broadwick Soho, Flute offers a wraparound terrace with spectacular views across Soho. This summer, the rooftop hosts an El Fenn residency, bringing the spirit of Marrakech to central London through Moroccan-inspired design, events and cocktails, making it one of the season’s most distinctive rooftop destinations.
Where: 7th floor, 20 Broadwick St, London W1F 8TH
Website: www.broadwicksoho.com
12th Knot, South Bank
The rooftop bar at Sea Containers London delivers some of the best Thames views in the capital. This season, 12th Knot has partnered with Laurent-Perrier, serving champagne cocktails, bubbles and grazing plates throughout the day from its rooftop terrace overlooking the river.
Where: 20 Upper Ground, London SE1 9PD
Website: www.seacontainerslondon.com
Angler Rooftop, Moorgate
Hidden above South Place Hotel, Michelin-starred Angler offers one of the City’s most understated rooftop terraces, with cocktails, seafood and skyline views.
Where: 3 South Place, London, EC2M 2AF
Website: anglerrestaurant.com
STK Stratford
The rooftop terrace at STK Stratford is made for spritz season. With panoramic views across east London and a lively atmosphere as the sun begins to set, it’s an easy choice for rooftop drinks away from central London’s crowds.
Where: The Gantry, 40 Celebration Ave, East Village, London E20 1DB
Website: stksteakhouse.com
The Arding Rooms, Clapham
South west London’s The Arding Rooms has become a go-to for rooftop drinks thanks to its relaxed atmosphere and sunny terrace. Aperol Spritzes, Hugo Spritzes and Pimms jugs dominate the drinks orders, while weekend DJs add energy without overwhelming the space.
Where: 7 St John’s Rd, London SW11 1QN
Website: club.xandwhy.co.uk
Orrery Terrace, Marylebone
The rooftop terrace at Orrery has been transformed into a Mediterranean-inspired escape for summer. Comfortable seating, botanical cocktails and views across Marylebone make it one of central London’s more refined rooftop options.
Where: 55 Marylebone High Street, London, W1U 5RB
Website: orrery-restaurant.co.uk
14 Stories
Set high above Fenchurch Street, 14 Stories combines skyline views with a lively rooftop atmosphere. Expect cocktails, DJs and one of the best vantage points in the City for watching the sun go down.
Where: 14th Floor, 120 Fenchurch St, London, EC3M 5BA
Website: 14stories.co.uk
The Lighterman, King’s Cross
Overlooking Regent’s Canal, The Lighterman is built for leisurely afternoons. Its waterside terraces offer plenty of space for spritzes, margaritas and long lunches while watching boats drift through King’s Cross.
Where: 3 Granary Square, London N1C 4BH
Website: www.thelighterman.co.uk
Sea Containers Restaurant
With uninterrupted Thames views, Sea Containers Restaurant has become one of the South Bank’s strongest day-drinking destinations. This summer’s Grey Goose terrace takeover pairs seafood towers with crisp martinis and riverside cocktails, creating an elevated but approachable setting for long afternoons by the water.
Where: 20 Upper Ground, London SE1 9PD
Website: www.seacontainerslondon.com
Fulham Pier
Part riverside hangout, part food market, Fulham Pier Riverside Market is made for relaxed afternoons. The London Essence Cocktail Bar serves spritzes and summer drinks beside the Thames, while deckchairs, food stalls and DJs from Thursday to Saturday create a laid-back atmosphere that often keeps people there long after sunset.
Where: Fulham Pier, London SW6 6HH
Website: www.fulhampier.com
Coppa Club Tower Bridge
With front-row views of Tower Bridge and The Shard, Coppa Club Tower Bridge is one of the capital’s most scenic waterside drinking spots. Sunset Sessions add DJs and spritzes to the mix during the week.
Where: 3 Lower Thames St, London EC3R 6AH
Website: www.coppaclub.co.uk
Le Pont de la Tour – Pont Plage
Every summer, Le Pont de la Tour brings a taste of the French Riviera to the Thames. Sand-covered terraces, seafood platters and St-Germain spritzes make Pont Plage one of London’s most transportive seasonal drinking experiences.
Where: 36D Shad Thames, London, SE1 2YE
Website: lepontdelatour.co.uk
Butlers Wharf Chop House
Tower Bridge views and riverside seating have made Butlers Wharf Chop House a long-standing favourite. It’s ideal for easy-going afternoons spent grazing on small plates with a drink in hand.
Where: 36E Shad Thames, London, SE1 2YE
Website: chophouseandtavern.com
Fiume, Battersea Power Station
Italian aperitivo culture comes to the Thames at Fiume. Expect Campari cocktails, hand-stretched pizzas and riverside drinks with Battersea Power Station as the backdrop.
Where: Sopwith Way, Circus West Village, Battersea Power Station, London, SW8 5BN
Website: fiume-restaurant.co.uk
Idalia at Pillar Hall
At Idalia, Aperitivo Hour celebrates classic Italian drinking culture with £10 cocktails and weekly showcases of favourites including Negronis, martinis and spritzes. It’s exactly the sort of place designed for lingering after work.
Where: Olympia Way, London W14 0EY
Website: www.pillarhall.co.uk
CORD Café
The Aperol-powered terrace at CORD Café is one of the City’s hidden gems. Tucked away from Fleet Street, it’s a floral, sun-soaked escape made for spritzes and leisurely afternoons.
Where: 85 Fleet St, London EC4Y 1AE
Website: www.cordrestaurant.co.uk
Theo’s on the Terrace
Bringing Amalfi Coast glamour to Mayfair, Theo’s on the Terrace serves Italian-inspired cocktails, Della Vite Prosecco and spritzes from midday onwards overlooking the Royal Parks.
Where: 1 Park Ln, London W1J 7QY
Website: parklane.intercontinental.com
Harry’s
Whether you’re visiting Knightsbridge, Marylebone or Covent Garden, Harry’s Dolce Vita has made a strong case for daytime Bellinis. Its dedicated menu explores multiple takes on the iconic Venetian cocktail, making it a natural stop for aperitivo lovers.
Where: Across London
Website: harrysdolcevita.com
Bar Jackie
At Broadwick Soho’s Bar Jackie, Campari Summer takes over the terrace with spritzes, Negronis, frozen cocktails and regular live Italian music. Add cicchetti and an all-day aperitivo atmosphere and it’s easy to see why this has become one of Soho’s most enjoyable daytime drinking spots.
Where: 20 Broadwick St, London W1F 8TH
Website: www.broadwicksoho.com
Pizarro, Bermondsey
Sister restaurant to José Pizarro’s original tapas bar, Pizarro offers a slightly more refined take on Spanish dining while retaining the relaxed atmosphere that makes Bermondsey Street such a great day-drinking destination. Expect excellent Spanish wines, vermouth and seasonal dishes designed for sharing over a long lunch.
Where: 194 Bermondsey St, London SE1 3TQ
Website: josepizarro.com
The Courtyard at TH@51, Westminster
Hidden behind the bustle of Victoria, TH@51 Courtyard feels more like a private garden than a central London hotel terrace. Centred around a restored Victorian fountain and surrounded by greenery, it’s an easy spot to disappear for a few hours over cocktails inspired by the hotel’s Shakespearean heritage.
Where: 54 Buckingham Gate, London SW1E 6AU
Website: www.tajhotels.com
The Beaumont, Mayfair
Tucked discreetly among the flower-filled grounds of The Beaumont, this elegant terrace offers a quieter alternative to nearby Mayfair hotspots. Guests can enjoy cocktails from Le Magritte Bar, classic serves, rare spirits or simply a cold beer in one of the area’s most refined outdoor settings.
Where: 8 Balderton St, Brown Hart Gardens, London W1K 6TF
Website: thebeaumont.com
The Franklin London, Knightsbridge
Overlooking the leafy calm of Egerton Gardens, The Franklin London offers one of central London’s most peaceful spots for outdoor drinks. The intimate garden setting feels miles away from the crowds of Knightsbridge despite being just moments from them.
Where: 24 Egerton Gardens, London SW3 2DB
Website: collezione.starhotels.com
The Garden Room at The Lanesborough
Hidden behind Hyde Park Corner, The Lanesborough has unveiled a lush terrace designed for all-day drinking and dining. Expect Champagne, classic cocktails and one of London’s most impressive collections of aged Cognacs and Armagnacs served in a beautifully secluded setting.
Where: Duke of Wellington Pl, London SW1X 7TA
Website: www.oetkerhotels.com
Riviera Terrace at The Churchill Bar
Located at Hyatt Regency London – The Churchill, this Côte d’Azur-inspired terrace brings a taste of the Riviera to Marylebone. Riviera-style lunch dishes, oysters and a dedicated spritz menu make it a sophisticated option for long summer afternoons.
Where: 30 Portman Square, London W1H 7BH
Website: www.hyattrestaurants.com
Vori Greek
Tucked away in one of west London’s prettiest neighbourhoods, Vori offers a terrace that feels worlds away from the pace of central London. The Greek restaurant specialises in distinctive wines sourced from across Greece, alongside meze and sharing plates that are made for long afternoons in the sunshine. Relaxed, neighbourhood-focused and refreshingly understated, it’s a great choice for anyone looking to swap spritzes for something a little different.
Where: 120 Holland Park Ave, London W11 4UA
Website: vorigreekitchen.co.uk
Bentley’s Oyster Bar & Grill
Just off Regent Street, Bentley’s Oyster Bar & Grill offers one of the most charming terraces in the West End. Pair Champagne with oysters or settle in with the famous Royal Shellfish Platter and enjoy one of London’s great long-lunch institutions.
Where: 11-15 Swallow St, Piccadilly, London W1B 4DG
Website: www.bentleys.org
The American Bar at The Stafford
Summer at The Stafford London revolves around its courtyard collaboration with Veuve Clicquot and a menu of seasonal cocktails. Frozen Margaritas, Espresso Tequinis and classic serves make this one of St James’s most elegant places to spend an afternoon.
Where: 16-18 St James’s Pl, London SW1A 1NJ
Website: thestaffordlondon.com
EllaMia at St Martins Lane
In partnership with Champagne Pommery, EllaMia has transformed its wraparound terrace into a French-inspired drinking destination. Spritzes, Champagne and a menu built around long lunches make it a natural stop during a day spent exploring Covent Garden and Soho.
Where: 45 St Martin’s Ln, London WC2N 4HX
Website: morgansoriginals.com
Café Ciel
The terrace at Café Ciel was practically made for summer afternoons. Alongside spritzes and Champagne cocktails, the signature Ciel Spritz — combining Italicus, elderflower and Perrier-Jouët Champagne — has become a particular favourite.
Where: The OWO, 7 Horse Guards Ave, London SW1A 2EU
Website: cafeciel.co.uk
Dickie’s Bar at Corrigan’s Mayfair
Hidden just off the main Mayfair thoroughfares, Dickie’s Bar offers one of the best-value luxury drinking experiences in London. The Friday Martini & Snacks deal pairs a classic martini with bar snacks, making it an ideal stop for afternoon drinks that feel indulgent without being extravagant.
Where: 28 Upper Grosvenor St, London W1K 7EH
Website: www.corrigansmayfair.co.uk
Le Magritte at The Beaumont
Attached to The Beaumont’s terrace, Le Magritte Bar is known for its impressive spirits collection and beautifully executed cocktails. If you’re looking for somewhere sophisticated but low-key, this Mayfair favourite delivers.
Where: The Beaumont Mayfair, 8 Balderton St, Brown Hart Gardens, London W1K 6TF
Website: thebeaumont.com
144 On The Hill
Located within Richmond Hill Hotel, 144 On The Hill offers a relaxed escape from central London. Cocktails, English sparkling wine and a popular happy hour make it a great choice for a slower-paced afternoon.
Where: 149-150 Richmond Hill, Richmond TW10 6RW
Website: 144onthehill.co.uk
Pan Pacific London
For those seeking a more polished day-drinking experience, Pan Pacific London is set to launch a new cocktail collection inspired by citrus, botanicals, tropical fruits and warming spice notes. Expect Champagne cocktails, tequila serves and elevated classics designed for leisurely afternoons, all delivered with the luxury touch the hotel is known for. It’s one to have on your radar as terrace season gathers pace in the City.
Where: 80 Houndsditch, London EC3A 7AB
Website: www.panpacific.com
The Ned
A City institution, The Ned remains one of the capital’s great all-day drinking destinations. Between Nickel Bar, the Guinness Bar and seasonal cocktail activations, there are plenty of reasons to settle in for an afternoon and stay well into the evening.
Where: 27 Poultry, London EC2R 8AJ
Website: www.thened.com
Smith’s Bar & Grill
Hidden away in Paddington, Smith’s Bar & Grill offers a terrace that’s perfect for escaping the pace of the city. Aperol Spritzes, Hugo Spritzes and relaxed alfresco dining make it a dependable summer option.
Where: Central, 25 Sheldon Square, London W2 6EY
Website: www.smithsbarandgrill.co.uk
Lady Abercorn’s Pub & Kitchen
Set inside Andaz Liverpool Street, Lady Abercorn’s Pub & Kitchen blends Victorian character with modern hospitality. Local craft beers and elevated pub classics make it a smart choice for a more traditional style of day drinking.
Where: 40 Liverpool St, London EC2M 7QN
Website: www.hyattrestaurants.com
Rake’s Café Bar
Also located within Andaz Liverpool Street, Rake’s Café Bar transitions effortlessly from daytime coffee spot to cocktail destination. Signature drinks, classic cocktails and a lively atmosphere make it popular throughout the day.
Where: 40 Liverpool St, London EC2M 7QN
Website: www.hyattrestaurants.com
Bluebird City
Set within South Place Hotel, Bluebird City offers a vibrant terrace that’s ideal for post-work drinks. Expect seasonal cocktails, British-inspired dishes and a lively atmosphere in the heart of the Square Mile.
Where: 3 South Pl, London, EC2M 2AF
Website: bluebird-city.co.uk
Liverpool Street Chop House & Tavern
For a more casual City drinks session, Liverpool Street Chop House & Tavern delivers covered outdoor seating, easy-going drinks and a location just moments from the station.
Where: 16 New St, Liverpool St, London EC2M 4TR
Website: liverpoolstchophouse.co.uk
Paternoster Chop House & Tavern
With St Paul’s Cathedral as its backdrop, Paternoster Chop House & Tavern offers one of the City’s most atmospheric terraces. The drinks programme is geared towards after-work gatherings, but it’s just as enjoyable for a leisurely afternoon in the sunshine.
Where: 35 Old Bailey, London EC4M 7AU
Website: chophouseandtavern.com
German Gymnasium
Housed in a striking Grade II-listed building in King’s Cross, German Gymnasium has a terrace that comes alive during summer. Long lunches, cocktails and a central location make it a reliable choice for all-day drinking.
Where: 1 King’s Boulevard, London, N1C 4BU
Website: germangymnasium.com
Bluebird Chelsea
One of west London’s most recognisable terraces, Bluebird Chelsea remains a King’s Road favourite. Seasonal cocktails, Wimbledon screenings and an effortlessly Chelsea atmosphere make it a classic day-drinking destination.
Where: 350 King’s Road, London, SW3 5UU
Website: bluebird-restaurant.co.uk
Electric Shuffle Canary Wharf
Day drinking doesn’t always need to revolve around a rooftop. Electric Shuffle Canary Wharf pairs cocktails and spritzes with its interactive shuffleboard experience, creating a more social alternative to a traditional terrace session. Its summer terrace is particularly popular when the weather is good, making it an easy choice for group afternoons that roll into evening drinks.
Where: Cabot Square, N Colonnade, Canary Wharf Estate, London E14 4EY
Website: electricshuffle.com
Sartoria Liverpool Street
Bringing the same Italian spirit to the City, Sartoria Liverpool Street is particularly attractive for its weekday aperitivo hour, where spritzes take centre stage. The terrace offers a welcome escape from the surrounding office towers and is ideal for stretching a lunch break into something longer.
Where: 16b New St, London EC2M 4TR
Website: sartoria-liverpoolstreet.co.uk
