A solid selection of ales from breweries big and small, alongside a good food and wine menu make this place popular for both after-work drinks and weekend antics. A mishmash of amenities and activities co-exist here, from sports screenings to stand up comedy, pub quizzes and private parties. Large seating areas, comfy sofas and an expansive beer garden make this the optimum spot for gathering the gang.

Doing a straight-up local right, this neighbourhood pub serves up top quality food and bar snacks (not forgetting negronis on tap) to a wanting crowd. A haven for beer lovers, pub-goers can choose from some 6o beers at affordable prices. A great find, best to keep this one on the hush – we love its local vibe.

This pub is unlike most in London. Part bar, part food market and part restaurant, the hybrid watering hole bears a one-size-fits-all mentality. With a central dance floor and copious food trucks to choose from, The Prince’s popularity is on the rise (thanks to sunny days and charmed customers). Established by the same people who brought you Pergola on the Roof – these guys know how to deliver on the ideal summer hangout.

The Magic Garden is an eccentric spot full of character. There’s a huge tent, mismatched furniture, candles, lanterns and a black cab you can sit in. The pub’s main focus is music and they consistently host up-andcoming artists covering all genres of music from reggae to hip hop and Latin. Come at the weekends to party, dance and listen to live music, or on Sundays for roasts, board games, and bloody Marys. They also have a killer happy hour from 5-7PM Monday to Friday.

With beanbags, barrels, benches and booths you’ll never be short of a seat at The Avalon. Consisting of a courtyard, a terrace and a garden, there’s ample choice (and lots of space) at this alfresco pub. Freed from a sardine’s plight, the outdoor bar and kitchen is our favoured spot. Opt for an early dinner in this charming atmosphere as golden hour approaches.

We can think of few more idyllic city activities than drinking and dining among the flowers in the hanging garden at this N1 beauty. Something of a local institution, the convivial spot might be at the top of many people’s summer hit list, but remains no less desirable for it. Great food and good cocktails make it a mainstay for discerning sun-worshippers looking for an al fresco base camp.

A five-minute walk from Camden tube station, Edinboro Castle is a good shout for a casual weekday pint when the weather plays ball. Situated on the corner of Regent’s Park, the pub boasts an unexpectedly large beer garden with seats for over 300. Grab a cauldron of Pimm’s and chill out for the remainder of the day. Blankets and a mini-marquee are on hand for if (and when) the weather goes south.

Cycle down to this beautifully restored South London pub for an afternoon of live music or gastro-pub grub in the sun. With a great vibe and some top ales, this is a great spot for a pint and a bite or long extended Sunday in the sun. Our advice: show up late afternoon, make a pitstop at the barbecue shack and then huddle around the fire pit for an evening of chatter and clinking glasses.

Situated on the stretch of the Thames between the Hammersmith and Putney Bridges, The Crabtree is prime pickings on a summer day. After a walk along the Thames, pop in for a refreshing drink in the atmospheric beer garden. Home to an award-winning comedy club and the largest pub quiz in West London, you’re likely to leave here with plans to return after work the following week.

One of the most famous landmark pubs on the river, The Ship fills up fast in summer months. While firmly holding on to its historical heritage, The Ship draws a younger crowd of 20 and 30 somethings with the view to spending the whole day here. The outdoor terrace throngs on a hot summers day and with a late licence you wont be the first to have seen your weekend roll into one at this established drinking hole. Word of warning: it does get somewhat rowdy and if the red trouser brigade and co. are not your bag, you may want to avoid.

This beautiful mid-Victorian pub overlooks Victoria Park and gets the balance of good booze and good views just right. With a front and back terrace (and a stellar reputation) you’re likely to wait a while for a table. The south-facing taproom is a popular spot for birthdays, so bunting clad tables and lampposts commonplace. Regardless of occasion a good time is assured.

With one of the biggest beer gardens in the area, The Duke of Edinburgh knows how to give its patrons some proper satisfaction. The outdoor bar, crazy golf course and barbecue pit add to the allure (and the fun) as does the spirited pub’s fine selection of beers and ales. Made for relaxing afternoons or drinks before a gig at the Brixton Academy, this is a lively spot – be prepared to make new friends.