When the sun beams down its golden rays and temperatures heat up, London becomes a city resplendent in summer’s glory. Bathed in all the brightness of the season, it beckons to us to join (or start) the party, evoking that desperate urge to make the most of summer sun in the best alfresco spots in London. And what better way to absorb it all than On one of London’s best terraces? Whether it’s date night late into the evening or fun times with friends over a long lunch, there’s plenty of places to embrace the beauty of London outdoors, elevating the experience with great food and drinks while we’re at it.
Whatever you’re seeking from an alfresco experience in London, we’ve got you covered with our guide to 5 of the best alfresco spots in London.
Sparrow Italia, Mayfair
One of few in Mayfair, this 25-seater rooftop boasts 360-degree views of Old Bond Street and beyond, offering indulgence at new levels. Hidden down quiet Avery Row, this sun-soaked ‘nest’ provides the ideal backdrop to enjoy Sparrow’s Mediterranean-infused menus, transporting guests to the Italian coast. Enjoy the a la carte menu, the ‘crudo’ and ‘insalata’ small plates, or elevate your weekend with one of their ‘Figurati cocktails’ – a zesty take on an Aperol Spritz.
Those not drinking can take it easy with a mocktail, each an ode to an individual Italian region. We recommend the Sicily mocktail infused with guava and almond, or their Molise, with mango, watermelon, chilli and coriander. Bellissima.
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Home House, Marylebone
One of London’s most prestigious private Members Clubs in the heart of Marylebone conceals a secret haven in the form of its own expansive garden. Renowned for its vibrant community, discover the true spirit of Home House through the garden’s summer offerings, where a seasonal British menu and the ultimate summer soiree awaits.
The extravagant raj tent provides extra outdoor sanctuary, while the exterior of the house debuts a breathtaking floral display. Weekends come alive with the gourmet barbecue menu, featuring fresh dishes from the grill and pitta breads hot from the pizza oven. Home House have also unveiled a dedicated ‘Summer Spritz’ cocktail menu, the most sophisticated of refreshment made with their very own gin. Crafted with botanicals from around the globe, rediscover the magic of gin cocktails in a setting that couldn’t be more perfect for doing so.
The MAINE, Mayfair
Next to Bond Street and overlooking Medici Courtyard, in a tranquil, sun-filled spot just off Hanover Square, this coveted summer-must is open daily for lunch, dinner, and drinks. Seamlessly blending old-world British elegance with New England extravagance in a historic Grade II listed townhouse, the summer terrace is located in the original gardens. Designer Gergei Erdei, has transformed the space into ‘The Orangerie’; a Mediterranean garden where the balmy scent of orange trees extends the days of summer. The New England-inspired menu on the terrace perfectly complements an alfresco meal, with dishes from the raw bar being a particular must-try.
Veuve Clicquot X Whitcomb’s at The Londoner, Leicester Square
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Exclusively for summer 2024, The Londoner’s French Mediterranean restaurant Whitcomb’s has collaborated with Veuve Clicquot to create a stunning terrace on Leicester Square, featuring interiors in their iconic yellow, from florals, and fairy lights. Celebrating the sun, the aptly named ‘Terrasse Ensoleillée’ welcomes guests for alfresco dining; to bask in the sunshine, enjoy Veuve Clicquot Champagne, specially created Veuve Clicquot cocktails including a twist on a French 75 and berry spritz, as well as Champagne tasting flights and a bespoke food menu.
LPM Restaurant and Bar, Mayfair
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Stepping through LPM Restaurant & Bar’s private Riviera room, you will find a breezy, sun-drenched terrace, perfect for whiling away a summer’s eve with a glass of rosé in hand. LPM offers its diners a taste of the Cote d’Azur to enjoy the warmer, longer nights, with its vibrant French Riviera-inspired menu, expertly crafted cocktail list and unbeatable ambience. Nestled on the peaceful Brook’s Mews, the sun-soaked Mayfair terrace provides the ideal backdrop for al fresco dining, and the perfect setting to enjoy a fresh Tomatini.
Bamboo Mat, Stratford
Head down to this trendy Nikkei hotspot in Stratford’s East Village and enjoy delicious new Peruvian and Japanese delights on their summer terrace. The new menu is full of mouth-watering sharing platters of sushi, ceviche and sashimi, plus mouthwatering cocktails and a great wine list. Fans of ceviche must try the ceviche deluxe, with seabass, prawns and scallops in Bamboo Mat’s signature sauce.
The Standard Rooftop
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Located on the 11th floor of The Standard, in the heart of King’s Cross and steps away from the Eurostar, this rooftop offers spectacular views of London’s skyline and the ornate St Pancras’ clock tower: the perfect setting for an after-work unwind or sunset soiree to elevate weekend plans. This year guests can indulge in a 16” pizza between friends, or a New York-style slice to themselves, loaded with their favourite toppings.
Fiume, Battersea Power Station
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Experience the charm of this Thameside restaurant’s summer terrace, with panoramic views and menus that showcase the culinary traditions of Italy’s Mezzogiorno region. With rustic flavours and fresh ingredients, Chef Davide Mazzocch’s dishes transport guests to the sun-soaked landscapes of southern Italy. What’s more, this summer Fiume has partnered with CÎROC to celebrate the launch of the limited-edition CÎROC Limonata. The terrace will be filled with lemon trees, and exclusive CÎROC Limonata cocktails will be on offer, including the CÎROC Luxe Lemon Drop, CÎROC Limonata Collins and CÎROC Southside Spritz.
Le Pont De La Tour, Tower Bridge
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With a legacy spanning over three decades, every summer, guests flock to Le Pont De La Tour’s illustrious riverside terrace, which offers breathtaking views of Tower Bridge and the London skyline. Head Chef Kieran Suvarna’s monthly regional French menu is available throughout the summer, as well as the restaurant’s signature Crêpes Suzette Trolley. Embrace the London summer by dining with one of London’s best-loved riverside views.
Paper Moon at The OWO, Whitehall
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Located at The OWO on Whitehall, Paper Moon London is the first UK outpost from the illustrious Italian restaurant brand that was founded in Milan in 1977. The restaurant’s terrace offers elegant al fresco dining surrounded by the grand, historic buildings of The OWO. Whilst sipping a glass of Italian wine or sampling the restaurant’s sophisticated cocktails, guests can enjoy classic Italian dishes that offer a taste of summer, such as Fritto misto; Burrata with tomato, basil and breadcrumbs; Fiorentina steak.
Hotel AMANO’s Rooftop Bar, Covent Garden
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An enchanting oasis on the 7th floor of Hotel AMANO in Covent Garden. Boasting stunning views of London’s skyline, including the London Eye and Big Ben, guests can immerse themselves in a world of mixology and culinary delights with rare ingredients, innovative cocktails, international wines and champagnes all complimented by a tasty tapas menu. Curated DJ line-ups on Friday and Saturday nights, making it the perfect hangout for any occasion.
The Biltmore X Veuve Clicquot, Mayfair
This summer, The Biltmore London has partnered with French Champagne house Veuve Clicquot to create an enchanting outdoor terrace at Café Biltmore. Step into a realm reminiscent of a picturesque summer in the French countryside, perched amidst lush greenery and bathed in the warm glow of the sun. Indulge in seasonal delights with fixed or à la carte menus for bottomless brunch, sipping Veuve Clicquot whilst soaking in the ambiance. Whether it’s a leisurely brunch or a romantic dinner, the terrace promises an unforgettable experience of style and elegance.
Orrery, Marylebone
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Orrery invites guests to dine al fresco in their elegant summer terrace nestled in the heart of Marylebone. Adorned with lush greenery and bathed in natural light, the terrace offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of London life. Founded by designer Terence Conran in 1997, the restaurant serves a curated selection of seasonal dishes crafted with the finest ingredients, celebrating the essence of French culinary tradition.
Norma, Fitzrovia
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The pretty-as-a-picture terrace at Norma on Charlotte Street is inspired by the vibrant colours and flavours of Sicily. Cheerful parasols, lemons, and lush foliage set the scene for guests to enjoy Chef Giovann Attard’s summer menus, with dishes including Sicilian Caponata; Fritto Misto; the namesake traditional Pasta alla Norma; and refreshing Granita and Gelato. Norma’s Negroni Bianco makes for the perfect aperitif, or guests can savour a crisp glass of Sicilian wine, such as the renowned Etna Bianco.
Rosewood London, Covent Garden
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This summer the much-loved rosé wine estate Minuty has brought the French Riviera lifestyle to the luxury hotel, Rosewood London, transforming their iconic courtyard into ‘Villa Minuty’. Inviting guests to ‘join the Provençal Art de Vivre’ this summer, soak up the rays while sipping rosé wines on this beautiful terrace. Enjoy flavours from the South of France by Holborn Dining Room through dishes inspired by the sun-drenched ingredients of the market gardens surrounding Chateau Minuty. Menu delights are paired with a selection of refreshing cuvées including Château Minuty ‘Rose et Or’ 2023 and Château Minuty ‘281’ 2023 as well as those exclusive to Rosewood London: Minuty ‘Blanc et Or’ 2023 and Minuty ‘Rouge et Or’ 2022.
