The best beer gardens in London to visit this summer

The George Inn, London Bridge

This pub, down a lane off Borough High Street, was rebuilt in 1686, and remains a piece of living history. Once a stop-off for travellers making their way to the City, this is London’s last surviving galleried coaching inn. But it’s no dusty artefact. In summer, the cobbled courtyard is a magnet for workers from the incongruous modern offices nearby, and inside, it’s suitably timeworn too: the Parliament Bar, with its serving hatch, is an atmospheric spot. Food is more modern, thankfully, with sharing plates for festive groups.

Address: The George Inn, 75-77 Borough High Street, London SE1 1NH
Telephone: +44 20 7407 2056
Website: greeneking-pubs.co.uk

Mother Kelly’s, Vauxhall

With bars and bottle shops in Stoke Newington, Bethnal Green and Homerton, the Mother Kelly’s mini-chain spreads craft beer excellence all over London. This branch is under a railway arch by Vauxhall Pleasure Garden, and comes with 33 taps of ever-changing top-drawer hops, from the best of London breweries and beyond, sold in thirds when their strength demands it. (In-the-know staff will keep you up to speed if the choice is too much.) Two outside areas ensure it’s a magnet for sunny-day beer buffs, and street food residencies keep them all well-fed, too.

Address: Mother Kelly’s, 76 Albert Embankment, London SE1 7TP
Telephone: +44 207091 9779
Website: motherkellys.co.uk

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