Perkin Reveller
The Perkin Reveller derives its quaint name from a character in Canterbury Tales written by Geoffrey Chaucer in the late fourteenth century. An incidental connection one might think, until you discover that Chaucer oversaw the initial construction of Tower Wharf where the pub itself is situated. This location alone would make the beer garden worth visiting since it’s medieval-style banqueting tables and comfortable lounge chairs offer an unrivalled view of Tower Bridge from the South side of the River Thames. But, if you do take a break from sight-seeing in the heart of London and decide to catch some sun here, the authentic British-style food may tempt you to stay a little longer and enjoy the variety of food and beverages which range from teas and coffees to cocktails to three-course meals.
The Wharf, Tower of London, London EC3N 4AB
The Union Tavern
As their webpage rightly states “Not real beer? Not real pub!” and this canal-side pub lives up to this motto with gusto. A wide range of craft beers would satisfy even the most fastidious of hipsters whilst the cocktail list also holds its own with a mix of house specials and classics.
Al fresco dining can be a risky business in the unpredictable English summer but you can at least be sure the food in this place will satisfy you. The usual gastro meals are all available at a reasonable price but the buffet is the real treat if you’re there with a group of ten or more. BBQ pork ribs top the menu for the more carnivorous customers but the sweet corn and broccoli fritters are rumoured to be one of the best menu options in the area. Enjoy the views from the canal-side garden with a free pint by signing up to their newsletter via their website!
The Union Tavern, 45 Woodfield Road, London W9 2BA
The Big Chill House
For somewhere a little bit livelier and a little bit different try out the Big Chill House in Kings Cross. Boasting a dancefloor, a rooftop terrace and a foosball table there’s no chance of being bored at this stylish venue. DJs play until 3AM every Friday and Saturday night but if you want a break from dancing then the patio is the place to be with a summery vibe present from open to close. The London skyline can be enjoyed from one of the comfortable chairs on this top floor and whether it’s night or day the atmosphere is always buzzing and interesting.
Regular’s attest that the soundsytem is unrivalled, perhaps unsurprising given that the original owners began by running festivals, whilst the music in general is eclectic enough to offer something for everyone. The food is standard pub food but the overall quirkiness of the building sets it above and beyond most restaurants and pubs around Kings Cross Station.
Big Chill House, 257-259 Pentonville Road, King’s Cross, London N1 9NL
The Albion
Take a break from the hectic city life in this pub’s spacious terrace with its wisteria-wound pergolas and rustic furniture. You could be forgiven for thinking you have been transported to a Georgian country garden in this beautiful setting – albeit with a selection of draught beers and short menu of summer cocktails. Graceful willow trees shelter immaculate flowerbeds and customers alike in the back courtyard which could just as easily be in the Cotswolds as in this Inner London pub. This multi-award winning venue offers a weekend brunch menu but if you miss this then the mix of traditional and British meals on the all-day menu will satisfy the heartiest of appetites. In particular, the Sunday roast here is a specialty though it is recommended you book to avoid disappointment.
The Albion, 10 Thornhill Rd, London N1 1HW
The Railway Tavern
Few London pubs can boast a pub garden as huge as the Railway Tavern’s, big enough in fact to play host to a variety of outdoor games as well as barbeques, a covered balcony and beach huts. Live music and flat-screen TVs showing Sky Sports in the covered areas ensure there is someone for everyone in this hidden gem. The food ranges from typical gastropub grub to some unusual seafood additons such as squid and crab which fits the eclectic vibe perfectly. Buyable artwork decorates the all-black walls inside in a refreshing change from the pseudo-album art that often cheapens independent pubs like this. Overall a charming place to have a quiet pint, play a game of foosball or show off your X-factor on the open-mic nights.
The Railway Tavern, 7 Station Rise, London SE27 9BW