With London’s weather heating up, there’s only one way we’d like to spend our time: sipping cocktails at one of London’s best summer terraces. From cosy, rooftop al fresco spots perfect for people-watching to secret courtyards, these are the summer terraces worth visiting this season.

Prince Arthur

Belgravia favourite Prince Arthur has unveiled a new terrace just in time for summer. Seating 28 guests, the elegant outdoor space offers full access to the pub’s Basque-inspired menu, making it an ideal spot for long lunches and early evening dining in the sunshine.

Expect seasonal dishes such as scallop crudo with roasted green peppers, grilled lamb cutlets with smoky aubergine and secreto Ibérico, alongside signature favourites including gildas, devilled eggs with caviar and lobster rice with saffron aioli. To drink, there’s everything from Vermouth Spritzes and House Martinis to Champagne by the glass, wine, cocktails and Guinness.

Where: 11 Pimlico Rd, London SW1W 8NA
Website: www.princearthurbelgravia.co.uk

The Arding Rooms

Take in panoramic views of South West London with a refreshing drink in hand. This newly opened private members’ club promises one of the best vistas in the South West.

With an outdoor movie screen, a barbecue, and live music, The Arding Rooms terrace is the perfect rooftop spot to soak up the summer sun.

Where: 7 St John’s Rd, London SW11 1QN
Website: www.ardingrooms.com

2 Chesham Hotel

Tucked among Belgravia’s white stucco facades, 2 Chesham Hotel offers a rare kind of outdoor dining in London: one that feels more like a private address than a public terrace.

Framed by soft greenery and sheltered from the city’s pace, 2 Chesham Hotel’s terrace is best discovered slowly. Early afternoons lend themselves to a sun-drenched Afternoon Tea. As the day softens, it shifts into a setting for golden hour drinks – an unhurried meeting point for friends, colleagues, or something more discreet.

Whether for a small celebration, a casual meeting, or simply an escape from the noise of central London, 2 Chesham Hotel’s terrace offers privacy, calm, and a quiet sense of retreat within the city.

Where: 2 Chesham St, London SW1X 8DT
Website: www.2cheshamhotel.com

Isabel

Isabel Mayfair is one of Mayfair’s most celebrated dining destinations, renowned for its glamorous interiors, vibrant atmosphere and Mediterranean-inspired cuisine with Latin influences. Since opening, the restaurant has become a favourite among London’s fashion, art and international creative crowd.

On the terrace, it is now offering a ‘Golden Hour cocktail experience’ from Sunday to Wednesday, inviting guests to enjoy a curated selection of signature cocktails for £10 each during the early evening. Available between 4 and 8 pm, the offering showcases some of the restaurant’s most celebrated creations, including the Albemarle Negroni, Te-Kiliman-Jaro, Zen Martini and Isabel Paloma, served within Isabel’s glamorous Mayfair setting.

Where: 26 Albemarle St, London W1S 4HY
Website: www.isabelw1.london

34 Mayfair

This summer, 34 Mayfair is leaning fully into terrace season with its new “Sparkling Mayfair Summer” takeover in partnership with Nyetimber. Running through to September, the South Audley Street terrace has been transformed with pink canopies, flowering trees and climbing roses, bringing a softer, garden-party feel to the middle of Mayfair.

The drinks list centres around Nyetimber’s new limited-edition English Summer Rosé alongside cocktails made with The Lakes Distillery, while the food offering keeps things suitably indulgent — lobster mac & cheese, raw plates, steak tartare and seasonal strawberry desserts all designed for long, Nyetimber-fuelled afternoons in the sun.

One of the more polished terrace setups in London right now, and exactly where Mayfair wants to spend summer.

Where: 34 Grosvenor Sq, S Audley St, London W1K 2HD
Website: www.34restaurant.co.uk

Alber’s

Having just opened their terrace on 1 April, Albers in De Beauvoir’s brings its neighbourhood charm outdoors with a small but perfectly formed terrace seating 12–14 guests. Expect seasonal small plates like anchovies with crème fraîche and kumquat and pig’s head croquettes, alongside signature cocktails and an easy-drinking wine list — ideal for relaxed, sun-soaked afternoons.

Where: 23A Englefield Rd, London, N1 4JX
Website: www.albers.london

I had the best evening at Albers — we started with the Ana Maria anchovy with kumquat which was the most insane bite and a bottle of Lambrusco (not usually something I’d go for), but I was instantly obsessed. Safe to say it’s my new summer drink and the perfect start to any evening with friends.

Caitlin, Senior Campaign Success Manager

La Maison Ani

Located a stone’s throw away from Sloane Street, La Maison Ani is the perfect spot for some al fresco dining this summer. Look forward to open and airy interiors, a sun-trap terrace, and a menu that transports diners to the French Riviera. Highlights include the langoustines grillées, the rigatoni aux truffles, and the double chocolate brownie cookie.

Where: Jumeirah Carlton Tower, 1 Cadogan Place, Knightsbridge, London
Website: www.lamaisonanilondon.com

Engel’s

Set against the historic backdrop of The Royal Exchange, this sun-soaked spot is serving up a curated Austrian and German café and bar menu while enjoying the atmosphere of London’s historic financial district. With hot dogs, salads, and small plates to draught beer by the pint or stein, cocktails, and flowing coupes of Champagne, Engel’s has it all.

where: The Mezzanine, Royal Exchange, City of London, London EC3V 3LQ
website: www.engelbar.co.uk

Sea Containers

Perched on the South Bank, the Sea Containers Hotel’s terrace boasts one of the best Thames views in the city. The restaurant perfectly captures the hotel’s all-day, laidback glamour. From the perfectly cooked seafood dishes to the sweeping views of London’s skyline, this terrace spot is a must-visit this summer.

Where: 20 Upper Ground, South Bank, London SE1 9PD
Website: www.seacontainers.com

Perched on the South Bank with cinematic views stretching across the Thames, Sea Containers London is the kind of hotel that reminds you why London remains one of the greatest cities in the world.

Elly, Founder & CEO

Bentley’s Oyster Bar & Grill

With over 100 years of serving up oysters to hungry Londoners, Bentley’s Oyster Bar & Grill needs very little introduction. With the weather warming up, grab yourself a seat on the terrace and enjoy the freshest oysters, fish, and steaks.

where: 11-15 SWALLOW STREET, W1B 4DG 
website: WWW.BENTLEYS.com

STK Rooftop & Bar

There is no better place to soak up the sun than at STK Rooftop & Bar. Whether you’re chasing a drink after work or settling in for the evening, the 18th-floor panoramic views of the city are a perfect backdrop.

Up for offer are 2 for 1 cocktails and happy hour bites, a 2-course sunset menu, or, for £21 per person, signature STK dishes like steak frites and seared salmon.

where: The Gantry, 40 Celebration Ave, East Village, London E20 1DB
WEBSITE: www.stksteakhouse.com

Cellar at Kindred

Once the weather turns, Cellar at Kindred’s outdoor space starts to feel more like a private garden than a restaurant terrace. But what makes it worth bookmarking isn’t just a picturesque setting; the menu shifts with the season, from burrata with confit tomatoes to fresh pasta made daily.

WHERE: Bradmore House, Queen Caroline Street, W6 9BW
WEBSITE: www.wearekindred.com

Forza Wine

Forza Wine at the National Theatre’s terrace is a summer hotspot for al fresco wine lovers. The menu features natural wines of all colours, seasonal cocktails, and Italian-inspired small plates like cauliflower fritti and Burrata with courgettes, peas, and mint. Stretch out on the sunny terrace and take in views of the River Thames while enjoying a relaxed, social atmosphere. It’s the perfect spot for a pre-theatre drink or a long, lazy summer evening.

where: National Theatre, London SE1 9PX
WEBSITE: www.forzawine.com

Forza Wine is one of my favourite spots in the city to watch the sun go down. Its terrace offers gorgeous views of the London skyline, which can be enjoyed with a delicious selection of small plates and a glass of wine firmly in hand.

Amelia, Culture & Lifestyle Writer/Creator

Jurema Terrace, The Mandrake

For some tropical vibes in the heart of London, head to Jurema Terrace and dine amidst a glorious hanging garden of suspended jasmine, passionflower, and towering Tasmanian Ferns. Jurema makes for a truly unique bar experience in London — perched on the first-floor terrace, you can dig into food from The Mandrake’s South American restaurant, YOPO, and sip on ethnobotanical cocktails and enjoy a lovely tropical vibe.

where: 20-21 NEWMAN STREET, W1T 1PG
website: WWW.JUREMA.COM

The Terrace at The Lane

Above the Covent Garden hustle and bustle, The Terrace at The Lane is a lovely summer rooftop where you can enjoy great wines, nibbles, brunch, desserts, and hot drinks. 

Signature cocktails include The Butterfly with Grey Goose vodka, St. Germain, pamplemousse liquor, rose wine, and grapefruit soda; The Dancer with Bacardi white rum, blue curacao, lime, mint, soda water; and The Herald with Dewars Bourbon, Grand Marnier, angostura orange bitters, honey, and lemon. There is a lot to love here.

WHERE: Catherine Street, Covent Garden, WC2B 5JF
WEBSITE: www.thelane.com

Richmond Hill Hotel

This summer, The Richmond Hill Hotel is launching Tacos & Tequila on its terrace. Expect a menu packed with flavourful tacos and plenty of tequila to keep the good vibes flowing — the perfect excuse to settle in for a sun-soaked evening with friends.

where: 144-150 Richmond Hill, Richmond, Surrey, TW10 6RW
website: www.144onthehill.com

Alto by San Carlo

After you’ve shopped to your heart’s content at Selfridges, pop on over to Alto by San Carlo, a rooftop Italian restaurant that’s open long after the iconic department store shuts its doors for the day. Sit beneath a floral canopy as you enjoy signature Italian dishes like taglioni with Sicilian red prawns, butter, and caviar, or baked norma with aubergine, tomato, and basil, topped with ricotta salata.

where: THE ROOFTOP, SELFRIDGES, OXFORD ST W1A 1AB
website: www.sancarlo.com

The MAINE Mayfair

Looking for a sun-filled spot to spend an afternoon? Look to The MAINE Mayfair’s lush terrace. Located in the original gardens of 20 Hanover Square, the space is abrim with wicker furniture and greenery, as well as plenty of cocktails and rosé to fuel you through the summer. The menu features raw bar items, grilled lobster and meats, and also daily happy hour and £1 oysters.

where: 6, Medici Courtyard, London W1S 1JY
WEBSITE: www.themainemayfair.com

MAINE is party in the basement, business on the terrace. Grab a sundown drinkie up in Mayfair’s open air before submerging into the heart of this uber chic late night dive. Great food too.

Robyn, Managing Director

The Constitution

Hang out by the canal in Camden at The Constitution, an all-year-round rooftop terrace with a retractable roof- so even if the rain falls, you don’t have to run inside. The seasonal menu features small plates to share, plus lots of vegan and vegetarian options. The chickpea hummus with harissa tahini, pomegranate seeds, flatbread, and orched butterfly mackerel with labneh, pickled shallots, and beetroot are on tap for starters. For mains, duck confit leg, shepherd’s pie, and cider-battered haddock are crowd favourites.

where: 42 ST. PANCRAS WAY, CAMDEN NW1 0QT
website: WWW.THECONSTITUTIONCAMDEN.CO.UK

Nine Elms Kitchen & Terrace

Overlooking the Thames, Nine Elms Kitchen & Terrace offers a calm riverside setting for spring and summer dining. Its terrace provides a quietly refined backdrop for long lunches or relaxed afternoon meals away from central London’s bustle. Seasonal dishes highlight fresh ingredients, with plates such as mini lobster rolls, tuna tacos, Mediterranean vegetable flatbread, and steak salad. With river views and a laid-back atmosphere, it’s an elegant place to linger over a meal.

WHERE: 7 Nine Elms Ln, Nine Elms, London SW8 5PH
WEBSITE: www.hyattrestaurants.com

Flute

Perched above Broadwick Street, Flute features a wraparound terrace overlooking Soho’s rooftops. The landscaped outdoor space pairs skyline views with a lively social atmosphere. Cocktails change regularly and are designed to be enjoyed alongside small plates meant for sharing. With DJs, music, and sweeping views, it’s a standout spot for sunset drinks in the heart of Soho.

WHERE: 20 Broadwick StreetLondon W1F 8HT
WEBSITE: www.broadwicksoho.com

The Churchill Bar & Terrace

This elegant terrace bar tucked behind Oxford Street is ideal for summer evenings of refined alfresco sipping. On its outdoor terrace, you can enjoy dishes like grilled tiger prawns, chicken milanese, and rigatoni al pomadoro, with a separate terrace spritz menu to wash it all down. Consider it your stylish escape for a spritz-fuelled summer evening.

WHERE: 30 Portman Square, W1H 7BH
WEBSITE: www.thechurchillbar.co.uk

Dalloway Terrace

Head to Dalloway Terrace to experience one of London’s most  “Instagrammable” terraces. The Bloomsbury hideout has once again been transformed into a natural garden abrim with simple seasonal flowers, an enchanting escape inspired by the spirit of Virginia Woolf and her famed character, Mrs Dalloway. This spot is the perfect place to indulge in afternoon tea, all-day dining, or weekend brunch.

WHERE: 16 – 22 Great Russell Street, Bloomsbury, WC1B 3NN 
WEBSITE: www.dallowayterrace.com

The Lighterman

Situated canalside in King’s Cross, The Lighterman is a London favourite once terrace season begins. With three different outdoor terraces overlooking the water, there’s plenty of space to soak up the sun. The lively setting makes it a go-to for drinks, casual dining, and people-watching by the canal. On warm days, the entire area comes to life.

WHERE:3 Granary Square, London N1C 4BH
WEBSITE: www.thelighterman.com

Pont Plage at Le Pont de la Tour

Pont Plage returns for Summer 2026 in partnership with St. Germain, bringing a touch of the South of France to the heart of London. Set near Tower Bridge, the summer pop-up channels beach-club energy with spritzes, seafood, and sunny views of the Thames. A seafood-led menu designed for sharing pairs perfectly with afternoon drinks. It’s a stylish spot for long summer afternoons by the water.

WHERE: 36D Shad Thames, London SE1 2YE
Website: www.Lepontdelatour.co.uk

116 Pall Mall Brasserie

This hidden oasis offers a tranquil spot for summer spritzers, seasonal small plates and casual al fresco drinks, surrounded by lush greenery and historic architecture — perfect for a sunny lunch, pre‑theatre tipple or relaxed afternoon catch‑up.

Menu items include small plates of pecorino or truffle nut mix and spaccantini breadsticks, Caesar aioli, and larger plates — buffalo mozzarella with lemon and basil arancini, spring onion aioli, or Searcys smoked salmon with pickled cucumber, whipped horseradish, and seeded rye.

Where: 116 Pall Mall, SW1Y 5ED
website: www.searcys.com

Union Social at The Gantry

For all-day lounging, Union Social at The Gantry is the prime summer terrace spot. Whether you’re after a strong coffee to fuel you through a study session or a working brunch, or expertly mixed cocktails for a laid-back get-together with friends, you can rest easy knowing you’ve got the best seat in East London.

where: 40 Celebration Avenue, Stratford, E20 1DB 
website: www.thegantrylondon.com

Norma

Charlotte Street’s Norma is the Italian dining destination you need on your radar. The terrace is made for leisurely lunches, small plates, and a lively weekend brunch. From £25 lunch menus to bottomless Saturdays, Norma has it all.

Soak up the sun and delight in classic Italian dishes, from grilled octopus with yellow tomato sauce, panzanella, flourless gnocchi with clams, bottarga, black garlic, or grilled pork belly with paprika cannellini puree, red harissa, pistachio pangratatto.

where: 8 Charlotte St., London W1T 2LS 
website: www.normalondon.com

Smith’s Bar and Grill

Overlooking the Grand Union Canal, Smith’s Bar and Grill is a gorgeous year-round terrace. The full à la carte menu is available outside, so look forward to dishes like beef carpaccio with dijon mustard mayonnaise, risotto with langoustine, mussels, clams, prawns, squid, and shellfish bisque, or a classic chicken Caesar salad.

where: 25 SHELDON SQUARE, PADDINGTON, W2 6EY
website: WWW.SMITHSBARANDGRILL.CO.UK


Want to receive more great articles like this every day? Join our daily email now