As the capital warms up for another glorious summer, alfresco dining returns in full force. From riverside views to rooftop revelry, these ten London restaurant terraces are where you’ll want to sip, snack and socialise all season long. Whether you’re craving rotisserie chicken in Shoreditch or mezze in Stratford, here’s your ultimate guide to the most unmissable terrace spots for summer 2025.
1. Cocotte Shoreditch – Rotisserie Heaven in the Sun
Just in time for the spring sunshine, Cocotte Shoreditch has launched a welcoming terrace perfect for everything from boozy brunches to late-night dinners. Famous for their rotisserie chicken and 28-day aged beef ribeye, Cocotte’s brunch offering includes crowd-pleasers like Chicken & Waffles, the Full Cocotte, and Avocado Toast with torched cherry tomatoes. Pair with summer cocktails like the Cocotte Spritz or a classic Aperol for a true terrace treat.
📍 Cocotte Shoreditch
2. Pergola Brixton – Rooftop Vibes and Mexican Flare
2025’s rooftop darling, Pergola Brixton, brings a taste of Mexico to South London. Enjoy mezcal and tequila cocktails with vibrant dishes from Jalisco, all while basking in sunshine under a retractable roof. Don’t miss their DJ-led bottomless brunches and sundowner happy hours – this terrace is an experience in itself.
📍 Pergola Brixton
3. HERA Stratford – A Greek Island Getaway in East London
HERA’s newly launched terrace in Stratford offers a Greek escape without leaving London. Feast on mezze and grilled seafood while sipping cocktails like the Helen of Spice or Karpouzi Island. The 80+ seat terrace is ideal for sun-drenched lunches and golden hour drinks with a Mediterranean flair.
📍 HERA Stratford
4. Sam’s Riverside – Thames Views and British Classics
With panoramic views of the Thames and Hammersmith Bridge, Sam’s Riverside is a west London gem. Their elegant terrace invites you to dine on oysters, seared tuna tataki or a full three-course menu, while soaking up riverside serenity.
📍 Sam’s Riverside
5. Sam’s Waterside, Brentford – Tranquil Canalside Dining
Located along the Grand Union Canal, Sam’s Waterside offers scenic serenity and modern British dishes from Head Chef Abbie Hendren. Expect trout tartare, Portland crab linguine and seasonal surprises served on a generous, sunlit terrace.
📍 Sam’s Waterside
6. The Garden at The Berkeley – Knightsbridge’s Leafy Oasis
Step into elegance at The Berkeley’s secret garden terrace. Situated in Knightsbridge, this botanical haven offers a refined setting for alfresco afternoon tea or Champagne lunches. Expect impeccable service, floral surroundings, and a true touch of summer luxury.
📍 The Garden at The Berkeley
7. Seabird, Southwark – Sky-High Seafood and Cocktails
Boasting London’s longest oyster list, Seabird’s 14th-floor terrace offers unbeatable skyline views and fresh, coastal flavours. This Southwark hot spot serves up Iberian seafood, craft cocktails and jaw-dropping sunsets, perfect for impressing out-of-town guests.
📍 Seabird
8. No.197 Chiswick Fire Station – Neighbourhood Cool in West London
This stylish west London haunt features a chic, plant-filled terrace ideal for brunch, coffee or dinner. With a laid-back atmosphere, great cocktails, and contemporary all-day dining, it’s a relaxed yet refined terrace destination in the heart of Chiswick.
📍 No.197 Chiswick Fire Station
9. Parillan, Coal Drops Yard – Spanish Grilling in the Sun
For a hands-on alfresco experience, Parillan in Coal Drops Yard lets diners grill their own Spanish tapas on personal mini barbecues. This canalside terrace is a celebration of open-flame cooking, served with sangria, sherry and sunshine.
📍 Parillan
10. Boundary Rooftop, Shoreditch – Urban Escape with Style
Boundary’s rooftop terrace remains a Shoreditch favourite, combining Mediterranean dining, city views, and colourful planting. Their summer 2025 menu pairs grilled meats and fresh salads with botanical cocktails – ideal for sunset sipping with a view.
📍 Boundary Rooftop
Whether you’re hunting for brunch spots, rooftop cocktails, or romantic dinners under the stars, these London restaurant terraces offer unforgettable ways to enjoy summer 2025 in the city. Be sure to book ahead – London’s terrace season is about to get hot.
