London’s Pretty Garden Pubs

When it’s hot and sticky, the last thing you want to do is to be inside, especially if you are trying to relax with a drink.  Finding a pub with a garden might seem impossible when you are in the center of a big city – but if you know where to go, there are lots of options.  We highlight a few of the best.

The Spaniards Inn on Hampstead Heath has long been one of the favorite pubs in North London.  You can enjoy a stroll across the Heath while booking a stay at Park City Grand Plaza hotel London, taking in the superb views of London before relaxing in the garden at The Spaniards. Dating back to 1585, this pub has been around for a long time.  It was mentioned in Dicken’s Pickwick Papers and according to legend, highwayman Dick Turpin was born here as his father was the landlord in the early 1700’s.  The beer’s good and you can even dine alfresco.

Across the river beside Battersea Park, The Magic Garden is proving a popular option with anyone who enjoys live bands and DJ’s.  It has a well-deserved reputation with foodies, cocktail enthusiasts as well as music lovers.  At night, the garden is decorated with fairy lights and there is a great atmosphere. Weekends here have been described as a ‘festival in a pub’, while during the week there are often local and international artists playing covering everything from jazz, blues to world music. Sit back in a vintage armchair to while away the evening in style. The visitors looking for good food can search for restaurants in Kensington where they can get delicious food which will make their day.

Take a stroll across Blackfriars Bridge to the South Bank and try the Doggett's Coat and Badge pub. This is another long-established destination pub.  It is named after the oldest boat race in the world, the 300-year-old Doggett's Coat and Badge Race, and offers fantastic views of St Paul’s Cathedral, the Old Bailey, and ShellMex House. Summer barbeques are held in the beer garden.

A few minutes walk along the river brings you to the Anchor on Bankside. This is a very popular tourist pub with its own riverside beer garden as well as a roof terrace. There has been a pub on this spot for over 800 years although the name has changed several times.  It has been described as Bankside’s oldest surviving tavern.

Looking for some entertainment while you drink? You can explore and visit many places in London which will be a good source of fun and enjoyment with your friends and family. If you are looking for outdoor, then head for Covent Garden to find The Punch & Judy pub. This pub has an outdoor seating area on the balcony, offering a great way to watch street performers in the main Piazza.  It owes its unusual name to the Punch & Judy puppet performances that used to be held here for the children of flower-sellers at Covent Garden.