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Best pub gardens for winter

Best Pub Gardens in South West London for Winter

O

h, Summer. Times enjoying an ice cold pint post-commute or mid-weekend, with the warm sun beaming down on you in a bustling pub garden may now seem all too distant. But as the nights get longer and the cold air continues to bite, pub gardens, restaurants and event spaces alike come into their element as they cater for those keen on alfresco fun, without the chill – good job you’ll know where to head with our guide to the best pub gardens in south west London.

Whether you’re looking to enjoy fondue in an igloo in your finery, or enjoy a hearty roast while being (gently) roasted in a pretty little hut, there’s somewhere to be found.

1

Winterland, Fulham

The annual festive utopia that is Winterland (featured image) has now opened its doors to Fulham for the season. Wander in for a small fee and explore the different areas, or for something a little more special book a private area. Spaces up for grabs include transparent igloos, fur-covered sofas and even a hot tub seating up to 6, with views of the Thames and a drinks service on offer. Once you’re done lounging about, tuck into a delicious dish from one of their food hut – we’ve only eyes for the molten fondue.

2

The Ship, Wandsworth

Claiming to have the best beer garden in London is a bold declaration – but one the crowds engulfing the Ship’s surrounds regardless of the weather would certainly agree with. Originally a watering hole for eighteenth century Thames workers, the pub (pictured below) has most definitely changed with the tides. Whilst the interior is a collision of old and new, with rustic wood and brighter dining areas, the exterior has a number of areas in which to catch up with loved ones or enjoy some festive grub. Grab a stall by the riverside, book a meal in a beach hut style booth or simply perch on a bench under the heated tent.

Winter pubs

3

The Kings Arms, Wandsworth

Benefitting from one of Wandsworth’s largest outdoor spaces, The King’s Arms plays host to uncountable crowds during the summer months, with punters able to sit riverside by the Wandle, in a number of tipi-style beach huts or in the garden’s central suntrap area. With the arrival of Winter, the area is covered over with a gigantic tent. The summer’s suntrap transforms into a heater-filled, seasonal utopia whilst huts are filled with blankets to snuggle under. A cocktail or two will be sure to aid the warming up process.

4

Bluebird, Chelsea

Admittedly less pub, more cocktail-spot-favourite of local young socialites, couples and families alike, this Chelsea haunt has certainly utilises its relatively small courtyard. There are plenty of cosy spaces with blankets for those looking to get snug, drink in hand. Trees bejewelled with sparkling white fairy lights illuminate the garden. Enjoy an eggy brunch dish and a detoxing juice (or champagne) to enjoy the display by day, or dine alfresco as the lights warm up over a late lunch, soundtracked by DJs on weekends.

5

The Falcon, Clapham

Located no more than a minutes’ walk from Clapham North underground station, the falcon can take unsuspecting revellers by surprise with the size of its hidden exterior. Retractable shelters are on guard to ensure you and your grub are well protected in the instance of rain or snow if the covered areas by the garden door and sheds at the rear have been occupied. Worst case (or second best) scenario, you’ll have plenty more space at the pub’s front to warm and people watch. Tuck into classic British dishes such as fish & chips and sausage & mash – or snub the savouries entirely and order the warm chocolate brownie with hazelnut ice-cream.

Winter pubs

6

The County Arms, Wandsworth

Another self-proclaimed winner of ‘Wandsworth’s best beer garden’ is Trinity Road’s The County Arms. Their vine-clad huts are perfect for cosying up in over the winter months, and even better for enjoying a hearty roast in. Head down on Sundays and be lost for choice as you piece together your perfect roast, with Cider Braised Pork Belly, Pink Peppercorn & Horseradish Roast Sirloin Of Beef, and their delicious Seasonal Vegetarian Wellington just some of the tasty options.

7

Vauxhall Food & Beer Garden

Punters and foodies alike – rejoice! Vauxhall Food & Beer Garden (pictured below) is on hand to warm up their visitors with sun-strength heaters, cocktails and ALL the food. Go Greek with Souvlaki, spice up your life with a taste of Mexico or stick to Chinese classics from one of the food vendors littered around the vast site. Their Nordic Spirit takeover sees the tented venue transformed into a winter wonderland space with marshmellow roasting stations, instagrammable spaces and festive fauna galore.

Winter Pub Gardens