The weather in Britain might be as temperamental as a drag queen on karaoke night, but once the sun finally breaks through, it’s time to indulge in the national pastime… Drinking in the sun! Grab your sunnies, slap on sunscreen, and get down these six gorgeous outdoor bars in London. These gay and gay friendly bars are hot and summer ready to go.
Just as Instagram-ready at night as it is in the day. | Photo: The Yard, Facebook
The Yard isn’t just one of the best gay bars in London, it’s one of the most beautiful. This gorgeous establishment is a mixture of contemporary exposed brickwork and modern lighting fixtures complemented by a luscious garden of greenery. It crawls across the walls from the interior through to their semi-open courtyard. Perfect for sipping on cocktails in Soho while soaking up the sun.
Fly up to a paradise island without leaving London. | Photo: Bar Elba, Facebook
Who would’ve thought this gay friendly rooftop bar would look so pretty? Not only does it have a jaw-dropping view of Waterloo, the bar itself is modeled on the tropical paradise Napoleon was exiled to. Think splashings of pink, climbing plants, adorable benches, and more Aperol Spritz and frozé than an exiled Emperor can demand.
Wine, sun, and great music – what more do you need? | Photo: The Bridge Clapham, Facebook
It’s all about class at The Bridge, a gay wine bar in Clapham. Inside, you’ll find white-tiled walls leading up to the bar, where the tenders can shake you up a wide range of delicious cocktails. Otherwise, get yourself a glass of wine and make your way outside to the huge open space beside the railway arches. Once the weekend rolls around, their DJs will be on hand to make sure the party goes exactly to plan.
What’s the point of summer if you can’t party? | Photo: The Eagle, Facebook
Not one for the lazy hot days, if you want to experience a summer night in London then The Eagle is your destination. This notorious Vauxhall spot is known for some of the steamiest parties around, hosting raves, top DJs, and the spectacular Horse Meat Disco. But if you need an area to cool off, their smoking-area-cum-outdoor-space is the ideal oasis to catch your breath.
Subtle is not a word in their dictionary. | Photo: Savage Garden, Instagram.
Big, bold, and beautifully camp, Savage Garden is the brashest London outdoor bar that manages to keep it classy at the same time. While the inside is a paradise of artwork, bold reds, sunset oranges, and enough gold to make even Beyoncé flinch, outside is something else. Feast on gourmet food, sip on expertly made cocktails, and gaze out over the City of London in a pink, sun-soaked garden terrace.
Outside is cool, but inside you’ll find a playground of ridiculousness. | Photo: Little Nan’s, Facebook
Remember your grandma who was really nice about you coming out? Imagine if she took LSD and opened a bar. That’s basically Little Nan’s, a kitsch fever dream of retro furniture, teapot cocktails, and photos of UK soap superstar Pat Butcher. With some of the friendliest staff in the city and the opportunity to eat fish-finger sandwiches next to a portrait of the queen, there’s enough reason to visit. Add in their dreamy outside drinking area in front of the arches and you’ve got yourself a deal.
