Best Beer Gardens in London

The Spaniards Inn in Hampstead has one of London's most famous beer gardens, sprawling beside the Heath. For something unique, The Faltering Fullback's three-tier treehouse garden in Finsbury Park is extraordinary. The Edinboro Castle in Camden and The People's Park Tavern by Victoria Park offer huge, atmospheric gardens with fairy lights and summer BBQs.

The Dove in Hammersmith, The Old Ship in Hammersmith, The Bell & Crown in Strand-on-the-Green, The Cutty Sark in Greenwich and The Prospect of Whitby in Wapping all have Thames-side terraces. The Narrowboat in Islington overlooks Regent's Canal for a different waterside experience.

Some are. The Cutty Sark in Greenwich has heated outdoor seating, and The Owl and Pussycat in Shoreditch has a heated garden usable year-round. However, most pub gardens are primarily a spring and summer affair. For winter warmth, check our cosy pubs guide instead.

Policies vary. Some pubs like The Albion and The Ship take garden bookings, especially for Sunday lunch. Others like The Edinboro Castle and The Spaniards Inn operate on a first-come basis outdoors. On the first sunny weekend of the year, arrive early or accept the queue.

Most pub gardens on this list welcome dogs. The Spaniards Inn, The Edinboro Castle, The Crown & Greyhound, The People's Park Tavern and Pub on the Park are all excellent for dogs. Look for the dog-friendly icon on each pub card in our directory.