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London's best beer gardens
  • The garden at this Kensington pub was once frequented by ostlers and coachmen who would grumble while the upper class drank their ale inside. Today, the secret pub garden is one of the most sought-after drinking spots in London, where you can enjoy your drink and food in an ivy-clad, characterful space. The Windsor Castle has heated areas and an outside bar.
  • The Avalon's beer garden is divided into three distinct areas for those who like to enjoy a drink while standing, groups dining at booths or at a long feasting table big enough for 24 people, and a chill out, lounging area. The garden features a stunning living wall, as well as beautiful mature trees. There is an outdoor kitchen with a Josper grill and several beers on tap including the Three Cheers Summer Pale Ale, available to order at the outside bar.
  • The extensive garden at The Spaniards Inn features arbour seating, an alfresco bar, BBQs and even a dog wash for pampered pooches. The award-winning outdoor space is a Hampstead hotspot for heath walkers, locals and Londoners alike. In the summer, the Pimm's flowing and barbecues keep the historic pub in demand.
  • With its bright orange and green furniture and mounted planting, this south-facing suntrap is a summer hot spot for Londoners who enjoy the beer garden's hidden rooftop location. The Prince of Wales Feathers boasts bohemian charm and quirky surroundings, creating a wonderful spot to indulge in a sandwich or gossip over an evening drink in the summer.
  • The Sun Inn is aptly named when it comes to the warmer weather ahead – particularly with its courtyard patio at the front overlooking Barnes Village Pond and generous garden out back. The latter boasts a covered area for colder evenings alongside ample bench seating for those wanting to bask in some rays. There is even a chance to watch the member’s only bowls club in action or gather your friends for a stint around the two full size ping pong tables for a slice of British summer sport tradition.

  • This trendy Tooting local offers a modern and inviting outdoor space with fresh and light decor. Saunter through The Castle's Orangery with its exposed brickwork to kick back and relax in the stylish beer garden, complete with eclectic lighting, a pergola and bookable wooden 'mini castles' for parties of up to 20.
  • Be transported to the seaside in the Leather Bottle's beer garden, one of the best in London and a hidden gem on Garratt Lane. It comes complete with retro-inspired beach huts and a large sand pit for adults and children. As the barbecue roars, you can lounge in the sun or even try your hand at beach volley or table tennis.

  • Much-loved local The Spring Grove features a family-friendly garden with comfy cushioned seating and blankets in the pagoda, along with a children's play area so the kids can let off steam while the adults relax in the sunshine with a well-deserved drink.

  • For rural charm in London, head for the wonderful pub garden at the Queen's Head, which looks like it belongs to a country pub, making it the perfect place to relax in the sunshine. The beer garden features a shaded area and traditional pub benches.

  • The Albion is a Georgian gem with a lovely garden resembling a little corner in the South of France, complete with wisteria and a willow creating a relaxed atmosphere. In the back is an old barn which used to be a bar.

  • Undoubtedly one of South London's most popular summer venues, The Ship offers a stunning Thames-side terrace, an impressive drinks menu and a multitude of barbecue favourites from the state-of-the-art outdoor American flat grill. Grab a drink from the terrace Doolali Bar before disappearing into a riverside cabin or take a seat dockside to soak up the sun.

  • One of the most beautiful beer gardens in London has its own bar, barbecue, bean bags and giant lawn Jenga. The outdoor space at The Eagle brings a taste of country life to London's bustling suburbs, offering real ale, modern wines and fresh seasonal British food.

  • The beer garden at this Irish bar is spread over multi-terraced platforms as an unexpected treat from what appears to be a small pub when you first enter. The garden at The Faltering Fullback features wooden picnic benches and overgrown plants.

  • For enchanting morning sunrises and mesmerising sunsets over the Thames, head for The Waterfront's outdoor area opposite Wandsworth Bridge. Looking for a pub to enjoy with your pooch? The dog-friendly venue is ideal for bringing your pet and to grab a quick bite on your walk along the river.
  • The Edinboro Castle's beer garden offers a buzzing atmosphere for you to enjoy a glass of crisp sauvignon blanc in the sunshine. At night, the pub switches on its twinkling fairy lights and heaters to help carry the alfresco fun into the evening. The beer garden has space for around 300 people, a barbecue, outdoor bar and sheltered areas.

  • This South East London boozer's beer garden provides views of the Cutty Sark and is a magnet for those who like to drink in the surroundings with a Hendricks gin and tonic or a cool pint of continental lager. In the summer, The Gipsy Moth fires up the barbecue for an unbeatable alfresco feast.
  • The pretty pub garden at the People's Park Tavern, located on the edge of Victoria Park, is open year-round. It is covered and heated in the winter and sun-drenched in summer. At night is when it is most beautiful and the summer months see the barbecue rolled out.

  • The dog-friendly pub garden at The Crown extends out onto the Clerkenwell Green, which bristles with north London life and is an excellent spot for a Pimm's or pint of cask beer during the summer. There is ample seating to enjoy a relaxing pub lunch or dinner as you take in the great view of the nearby Old Sessions House and Marx memorial library.

  • The Pleasure Garden at Grand Union Brixton isn't your average beer garden. It is designed with a Thai commune in mind to offer a summer holiday experience and invites you to hire a private Tree Hut, relax in a hammock and warm yourself by a giant fire pit when the sun goes down. There are ping pong tables, a giant outdoor projector screen and a full size tuk tuk.

  • With its two outdoor spaces, The Windmill is the ideal place to revel in the party atmosphere. The front garden has a flamed torch entrance with bright red umbrellas complete with a DJ.  The side garden couldn't be more different, boasting traditional bunting and large white lanterns  - a great space to enjoy lunch with friends.

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