The changing season doesn’t mean your al fresco socialising days are numbered — thanks to these London hotspots, autumnal adventures await.
After a glorious summer of sun, beer gardens and roof terraces, the arrival of autumn can feel like outdoor socialising is over. But, thankfully these 12 London eateries heard our sighs and have continued their al fresco seating for autumn.
Here are the best venues across the capital which prove under the stars dining can actually improve with the worsening of the weather — think outdoor heaters, fire pits, blankets and twinkly lights. Don’t mind if we do.
Petersham Nurseries Restaurant, Richmond
Don’t let the reputation of garden centre restaurants make you underestimate Petersham Nurseries. There are no soggy sandwiches with coleslaw in sight, only a five-time Michelin-Green-starred menu featuring dishes like Butterflied Mackerel, Smoked Carrot Puree, Pickled Onions and Radishes or Burrata, Marinated Peaches, Pink Peppercorn and Basil.
The only thing to rival the small of the fantastic food will be the fresh flowers and plants that surround your table in the fairy-lit greenhouse.
For those wanting a more casual dining experience, the nursery also has The Tearoom café and an afternoon tea service from Thursday to Sunday, though booking is required for the latter.
Address: Church Lane, Off Petersham Rd, Richmond, TW10 7AB
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Vinegar Yard, London Bridge
Sat between railway arches a stone’s throw from The Shard, Vinegar Yard is a collection of street food vendors perfect for a convenient, central meet-up.
Whoever you go with, everyone will find something for them, be it burgers from Nanny Bill’s, Asian-inspired dishes from Nik’s Kitchen, or tacos galore from Taco Collective.
Savvy to the changing weather, heaters and tents are put up in the autumn, allowing the weekend flea market and sports screenings to go ahead unphased.
Address: Vinegar Yard, 72-82 St Thomas St, SE1 3QU
The Ivy Chelsea Garden, Chelsea
Decorated with lush foliage and art-deco touches, the garden terrace is just as chic as the main restaurant. It’s also the perfect all-weather dining sport as — with true respect for the British rain — there is an orangery on hand for diners to retreat from the elements.
This year, The Ivy is running a special Downton Abbey menu in honour of the final film in the franchise. The menu is largely unchanged, meaning you can still get your favourites like the famous Shepherd’s Pie or Chocolate Dome, but it has added touches like the Salade du Verger with Figs and Pecans to add some 20th-century charm. But, be warned, this menu finishes on 14th October.
Address: 197 King’s Rd, London, SW3 5EQ
Seabird, Southwark
With its stunning rooftop views and Mediterranean-inspired menu, Seabird is one of London’s most Instagrammable dining destinations.
This autumn, their outdoor terrace is a cosy retreat, complete with heat lamps and blankets to keep you warm while you indulge in fresh oysters, seafood platters, and seasonal cocktails. It’s a must for anyone with a penchant for seafood in any iteration.
Seabird’s panoramic views of the city skyline are especially magical as the sun sets earlier and the lights of London begin to glow.
Address: 14th Floor, South Bank, 40 Blackfriars Rd, London, SE1 8NY
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Canteen at Greenwich Peninsula, North Greenwich
For a more bustling autumn evening, Canteen Food Hall & Bar is a must-visit. Comprised of several street food vendors, you can get everything from burritos to noodle bowls — perfect for the gastronomically indecisive or larger groups seeking variety.
With both indoor and outdoor seating, this is a good spot to enjoy both an Indian summer or a cold, windy evening. Either way, be sure to check out the extensive drinks menu at the Canteen Bar to help you enjoy/ignore the weather.
Address: 7 Soames Walk, London, SE10 0AX
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Dalloway Terrace, Bloomsbury
Famed for its ever-changing floral displays, Dalloway Terrace is beautiful hideaway to remind you of the joys of spring.
This autumn, the terrace blooms with a blend of soft pinks and oranges with pops of green, in celebration of the centenary of Mrs Dolloway.
The restaurant caters to all occasions, from weekend brunches and pre-theatre menus, to afternoon teas and Sunday lunches. The seasonality continues on the drinks menu with fun cocktails and signature hot toddies.
Address: 16-22 Great Russell St, London, WC1B 3NN
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Twenty8 NoMad, Covent Garden
One of NoMad Hotel’s restaurants, it was rebranded this year as Twenty8. But don’t worry, it is still serving the same American-French fusion food in its ultra-high-ceilinged courtyard with pretty balustrades and and balconies.
With large portions and a hefty martini menu, this is a warming spot for those colder autumn evenings when only food and a stiff drink will do.
In such pretty surroundings, it’s the perfect spot for a date or special occasion.
Address: 28 Bow St, London, WC2E 7AW
Boundary Rooftop, Shoreditch
Perched on top of Boundary Hotel, this rooftop spot has both an outdoor terrace and an orangery restaurant to accommodate all weather conditions.
In the heart of East London, its panoramic views offer a different perspective on the famous skyline, with a sweep over Shoreditch, the City, and the East.
Despite the view, the Mediterranean-inspired menu with solid choice of cocktails could make you forget you were in London at all. Perhaps the driving rain will bring you back down the Earth.
Address: 2-4 Boundary St, London, E2 7DD
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The Culpeper, Spitalfields
For an oasis in the middle of London, head to The Culpeper’s Rooftop Woodland Garden. With tables nestled amongst birch and hazel trees and plenty of flower beds to peruse, this is a natural paradise to enjoy the simple yet perfectly executed menu.
The chefs cook on a rooftop grill, allowing the tempting smells to waft over and get you ready to dive into dishes like Chipolata, Onion, House Mustard or Goat’s Curd, Beetroot and Hazelnut.
Address: 40 Commercial St, London, E1 6LP
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Brat at Climpson’s Arch, Hackney
Brat at Climpson’s Arch is known for its wood-fired cooking in an open-sided kitchen, allowing diners to get in on the action and enjoy the heat of the open flame on those chillier autumn evenings.
Their seasonal menu is simple but decadent, featuring fresh, local ingredients cooked to perfection over an open flame.
Enjoy the fiery atmosphere with a glass of natural wine.
Address: 374 Helmsley Pl, London, E8 3SB
Coppa Club, Tower Bridge
Serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner as well as all-day drinks, Coppa Club is ideal for anyone who wants spectacular riverside views at any point in the day.
The terrace features both outdoor tables and igloos making it a great venue no matter the weather. Though these igloos are a great sport to people watch over lunch, after dark is when they really come alive with their twinkling lights and blankets.
Address: Coppa Club Tower Bridge, 3 Quays Walk, London, EC3R 6AH
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The Prince, West Brompton
At The Prince, you are just as likely to enjoy a laid-back lunch as a vibrant bottomless brunch or DJ set.
The main menu is classic Americanised pub far — burgers, wings, club sandwiches — but a partnership with both Temaki and Crust Bros offers alternative, more international menus.
The Prince’s global focus continues from 25th September to 2nd October when it will host its own Oktoberfest. Expect brass bands, Bavarian decoration, and flowing beer.
Address: 14 Lillie Rd, London, SW6 1TT
Feature image: The Ivy Collection
