Five Alfresco Bars For After Work Drinks In London
It’s Friday, it’s been a long hot week and apart from the occasional shower, it looks like we are finally getting a steady stream of warm weather that makes us feel like summer is finally here.
So why not unwind at one of these fabulous outdoor bars with a cocktail or two and a light bite to welcome the weekend. Here are our top picks of the best alfresco bars in London for an after work drink.
1. Northbank
The Northbank bar and terrace near St Pauls offers spectacular views across the Thames with the Millennium Bridge to the right and Tate Modern and Shakespeare’s Globe just across the river.
Indulge in the eclectic New York style cocktails, Cornish Ales named after dogs, West Country ciders and classic mead alongside the house champagne, Jacquart. Expect a glorious selection of wines, many of which are served in carafes, changing with the seasonal menu. Of course, you could also always just have a lager and a glass of white wine…
Northbank, Millennium Bridge, One Paul’s Walk, London EC4V 3QH
2. Momo
Legendary restaurant and bar Momo is a welcomed escape from the hustle and bustle of the West End’s Regent Street. Bordered with a tranquil tree-lined terrace that has recently been extended, this North African haven can now accommodate those celebrating the end of the working day over a cocktail or two.
Try the Momo Special mix of vodka shaken with fresh mint, lemon sugar and topped with soda water, it is so refreshing on a hot and sticky day! If you get peckish you can indulge in a selection of Mezze. We love the baked hallumi, cheese briouats and merguez sausage – yum!
Momo, 23-25 Heddon Street, London W1B 4BH
3. OXO Tower Bar
Presiding high over the river Thames, the OXO Tower Bar boasts its own stunning views over London and St Paul’s. Designed by Shaun Clarkson ID, the new interior takes in some of the original design elements from the Restaurant and Brasserie, retaining the feel of a classic cruise liner, whilst at the same time introducing some strikingly modern touches.
The impressive OXO Tower Bar makes an ideal setting to relax and unwind at the end of the day. It is also perfect for a quick pre lunch or dinner aperitif from the original and innovative cocktail list created by Bar Manager Ian Goodman and his team.
Oxo Tower Wharf, South Bank, London SE1 9PH
4. Soho Sky Terrace
Chill out with refreshing cocktails light bites and mellow grooves at Soho’s funkiest open-sky bar. Enjoy a hard earned after work drink under the summer stars or spend a lazy weekend afternoon lounging around in style, soaking up the sun or sheltering under our all-weather cover. Lounging amidst the rooftops of Central London it is casual yet cosmopolitan place to bask under British skies accompanied by crisp cocktails, BBQ favourites and light snacks.
After a long day at the office, the Soho Sky Terrace provides the perfect central place to cool off with co-workers atop London’s most sought-after social spots.
Soho Sky Terrace, Courthouse Hotel, 19 Great Marlborough Street, Soho, London W1F 7HL
5. Aqua Nueva
Just around the corner from the Soho Sky Bar in Argyll St is the achingly hip Aqua whose selection of restaurants and bars provide an oasis after a busy day of work right in the centre of the West End. During the day, the terraces provide an ideal environment for a relaxed, outdoor lunch. As the sun sets in the evening, the rooftop space transforms into a cool atmosphere with lounge music and outdoor heating.
You can enjoy a refreshing cocktail created by drinks connoisseur and bar manager Tim Halilaj with spectacular vistas of the city acting as an impressive back drop. The Belle About Town favourite is the Rose and Li champagne cocktail that has lychee, rose liqueur and rose buds – it looks as pretty as it tastes!
Aqua Nueva, 30 Argyll Street, London, W1B 3BR
