As the weather warms, enjoying an Aperol spritz in the sun becomes more of a need than want.
Nothing compares to a perfect summer's day in London. Blue skies and plenty of sun calls for a drink outside, and what better place to enjoy it than one of the city's most favoured drinking destinations?
Below, we've compiled our curated list of must-visit sun-drenched drinking spots.
The Berkley
Step into 'Capri in the City' at The Berkley hotel this summer season. Typically reserved for guests, the hotel is opening up its exclusive rooftop to everyone for this seasonal pop-up inspired by the Mediterranean. Boasting unrivalled views of London's skyline, The Riviera-inspired menu features lobster with marinated peppers, the classic Caprese salad and platters filled with prosciutto and bruschetta. Cocktails are made in collaboration with Malfy Gin, with standouts including the Capri Negroni made with Malfy Con Limone, Bitter Bianco, dry vermouth and chamomile and the signature Amalfi Gin Granita made with Malfy Con Limone, Amalfi lemon juice, sugar and freshly shaved ice.
The Hari boasts a secret, garden-esque backdrop filled with lush greenery, making it the perfect backdrop to enjoy a tipple or two. Step inside and sip on coupes of chilled Perrier Jouët and a range of Champagne-led cocktails. The hotel’s Il Pampero restaurant is continuing the summer flavours, with seasonal light bites including tiger prawns and honey gochujang-glazed chicken skewers.
Located within the 19th-century St. Pancras Hotel, this outdoor terrace boasts prime views which overlook the heart of Kings Cross. In collaboration with Laurent-Perrier there will be Champagne on tap (and plenty of oysters to go with it). This is perfect for a buzzy atmosphere in the heart of London!
The St. Pancras Summer Terrace is open from 1-10pm from Tuesday- Saturday, from May-September.
Enjoy a taste of the French Riviera with the launch of CÎROC Club Riviera at Kitty Hawk. Inspired by the luxury of Provence’s beach clubs, there will be plenty of sunshine, spritzes and snacks. The drinks menu pays homage to Italian shores in a variety of flavours from the fruity to the citrusy — our eyes are on the Oh La Lemon Drop with CÎROC Strawberry Limonade. With a prime location in the heart of London's West End, this is a great spot for a few evening tipples.
As one of Chelsea's most beloved drinking institutions, this gastropub is guaranteed to be bustling on any given day. During the summer season, the venue opens up its outdoor seating area which doubles as an ideal spot for people-watching. Seasonal cocktails have been curated in partnership with Casamigos Tequila, including the Spicy Peach Margarita and refreshing Hibiscus Paloma. Bottoms up!
For a sunny sipping spot with a touch of Mayfair polish, head to Dovetale’s elegant terrace which seats up to 36 guests. Tucked away along Dover Yard, just moments from Green Park, this refined hideaway channels classic country club charm with seasonal staples like lobster rolls, grilled peaches, and Cobb salad. The real star? A ‘build your own’ frozen Margarita trolley, wheeled tableside straight from the Dovetale Knickerbocker Glory cart, bringing a playful twist to cocktail hour. Sun-drenched, stylish, and just secluded enough, this is alfresco drinking at its most luxurious.
This independently owned, neighbourhood wine bar is the perfect place for sun-soaking in London's south west. Located in Balham's buzzing Hildreth Street, the shop interiors have a cosy and welcoming feel, with bottles of wine and their handwritten descriptions lining the walls. The seasonal wine flight comes highly recommended, and proves itself a great way to discover new drops you may not have considered. The flight is available Sunday - Thursday, with August featuring a trio of Romanian drops including two crisp whites and a refreshing rosé. The shop prides itself on featuring a range of distinctive and unique wines, offering an impressive portfolio of options.
Of course, while the wine is the main attraction, the food menu is equally worth shouting about. We'd recommend the generously sized sharing board selection of hard and soft cheeses, cured meats and a basket of warm bread.
With a prime location right above Selfridges, this rooftop venue specialises in Italian cuisine with an extensive list of dishes and cocktails. Unsurprisingly, it is a firm fan favourite on a sunny day, with beautiful skyline views and luscious greenery (it feels just like a miniature Italy). Open seven days a week from lunch through to dinner, there is always an ideal time to visit.
Address: Selfridges, The Rooftop, 400 Oxford St, London W1A 1AB
This Islington address has drawn inspiration from Côte d’Azur in an explosion of sunny yellow prints and luscious greenery. The brasserie terrace is the perfect sun trap during warm weather days, making it ideal for long lunches and dinners which stretch well into the evening. Limited edition cocktails have been created in collaboration with Fever-Tree, including a Lemon Drop Highball and Paloma Rosa. Glasses of rosé also promise to be in free-flow, courtesy of Flint Wines.
With an expansive 70-cover terrace, The Brush Grand Café is guaranteed to have an atmosphere when the weather warms in East London. In the heart of Hoxton, the venue boasts an ideal backdrop for alfresco afternoons
The best spots for drinking in London depend on the vibe and the style of drinks you're after. If you're seeking something more relaxed, sitting near the water in Hackney Wick is a must. Soho boasts a string of historic pubs, while the likes of Chelsea, Fitzrovia, and Marylebone offer stellar options for more elevated drinking.
The "two-hour pub rule" in the UK allows licensed premises (like pubs, bars, and clubs in England and Wales) to remain open for an extra two hours beyond their usual closing times, without having to apply for special authorisation.
Manchester is teeming with stylish bars and pubs. Some of the more popular watering holes for summer include Barca Bar, The Black Friar, Climat, Terrace, Dakota Hotel, Dukes 92, The Lawn Club, and Ramona & The Firehouse.
Whether you’re planning long alfresco lunches, packing for a sunshine getaway or simply refreshing your beauty shelf for summer, Kirsty Welsh spotlights everything worth adding to your basket this month.
