The best bars in London for enjoying the last of summer
BY Anna Walker
19th Aug 2019 Drinks
Desperate to squeeze every second out of the dying days of summer? We've rounded up our favourite bars in the capital to enjoy one last summer tipple.
West: Heads + Tails, Hampstead
With a glorious garden and two swanky bars set over two floors, don't let the sleek-yet-humble exterior of this West Hampstead venue fool you—this is the place to make the most of the final days of summer.
With a distinctive concept—two bars, two different vibes and a double-sided flip drinks menu—you could enjoy several visits to Heads + Tails without ever feeling you'd been in the same bar twice.
Friendly staff and talented mixologists whip up delicious cocktails with surprising flavours. We'd recommend the van Gogh inspired "Letters to Theo", a summery tipple featuring gin, strawberries, lemon, abstintheroux and prosecco from the Heads menu or the blood-orange flavoured "Diamond in the Rough" from Tails, the perfect drink for those new to whiskey.
Central: Fentiman's Secret Spritz Garden, Farringdon
You've only got until the 29th August to make the most of this fairytale-esque drinks garden, set in the beautiful grounds of St John Priory Church.
This menu is perfect for a long summer evening, with drinks including the martini prosecco "Rose Spritz" with fresh strawberries, "Pacific Island Spritz" with passionfruit liqueur, white wine, and basil or the "Valencian Spritz", which combines orange tonic water with Belsazar white vermouth and peach liqueur.
This unique garden spot is filled with herbs and plants, and seats rest under the shade of a 200-year-old olive tree. Couples in search of the ultimate romantic evening can also enjoy a seat on the picturesque swing seat or next to the babbling lemon-filled fountain.
East: Netil 360, Hackney
Considering its prime position with views over East London, Netil 360 still has the feel of a well-kept secret. Even on days of blazing sunshine, you'll be able to find a comfortable spot to sprawl on their rooftop turf, enjoying a pint or an Aperol Spritz whilst feeling the breeze of the rooftop and the views over the city.
Entrance to the rooftop bar is gained by climbing to the very top of the Netil House staircase—a feat that will leave you feeling you've truly earned your afternoon drink. Be sure to pet resident pooch, Tres, whose adorable face can be found on the venue's pint glasses.
South: Frank's Cafe, Peckham
Another rooftop treat, this locals-favourite bar in Peckham is transformed from dull car-park roof to buzzing bar every summer. And if you're feeling peckish, the food offering is also delicious.
As the long nights draw in, pull up a seat and watch the sun go down over South London. Oh, and pack your camera. No trip to Frank's is complete without a photo in their Millenial-pink staircase.
North: The Faltering Fullback, Finsbury Park
If you prefer a traditional pub to a cool cocktail bar, The Faltering Fullback is the place for you.
With a gloriously leafy outdoor beer garden set over several levels of twisty-turny staircases, this warren-like bar is full of summery surprises—you'll feel more like you're enjoying your pint in an elaborate treehouse than a local pub.
There's even a Thai kitchen on-site, should you wish to extend your final summer evenings until the early hours.
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