The best picnic spots in London (and what to drink there)

Summer in London was made for picnics. Whether you’re sprawling out with friends in a local park or sneaking off to a quiet garden with someone special, there’s something about a bag full of snacks, a bottle of something good, and some sun that just works.

Each of these spots offers its own slice of the city—from riverside hangouts to tucked-away gardens. And the best bit? All our favourite cocktails can be pre-batched and bottled to bring along. Just pour over ice or serve chilled when you get there. 

With Beefeater London Dry, or one of our flavoured gins as your base, you’re sorted. After all, Beefeater is the Spirit of London—so it only makes sense to bring it to your next park session.

 

Jubilee Park, Canary Wharf

Tucked between the sleek towers of Canary Wharf, Jubilee Park is a surprisingly leafy escape in the middle of London’s financial district. It’s got fountains, lawns, and tree-shaded spots that make it ideal for a midweek lunch break picnic or after-work hang.

Enjoy with a Pink Gin Spritz: Crisp, fruity and ultra-refreshing—just bring Beefeater Pink, a bottle of fizz and you’re set. 

Get the recipe for our Pink Gin Spritz

 

Horniman Gardens, Forest Hill

This one’s a south London treasure. Set high above the city with panoramic views, Horniman Gardens also comes with a butterfly house, a museum, and even alpacas. It’s got big Sunday energy—perfect for a proper catch-up picnic.

Enjoy with a Pink Strawberry Cooler: Light, fruity and just the thing for warm afternoons. 

Get the recipe for our Pink Strawberry Cooler

 

Kennington Park, Kennington

A short walk from the Beefeater Distillery, Kennington Park is steeped in history and full of charm. Think tree-lined paths, quiet picnic tables, and plenty of green space to stretch out. Make a pitstop at the distillery before your picnic for the full Beefeater experience.

Enjoy with a Beefeater Gin & Tonic: A classically British drink for a classically British park. 

Get the recipe for our Gin & Tonic

 

Postman’s Park, St Paul’s

Tucked away behind the Museum of London, this peaceful garden feels miles away from the city rush. It’s best known for its touching memorial to heroic self-sacrifice, but also makes a lowkey lunch spot if you’re exploring central.

Enjoy with a Tom Collins: Zingy, fizzy and always a crowd-pleaser. 

Get the recipe for our Tom Collins

 

St Dunstan in the East, City of London

This one’s more of a wander-and-sit spot than a full-blown picnic zone, but it’s worth it. Set in the ruins of a bombed-out church, with ivy-covered walls and gothic arches, it’s one of the city’s most photogenic hideaways.

Enjoy with a Grapefruit Gin Paloma: Bright, zesty and just the right amount of bitter for a grown-up take on picnic sipping. 

Get the recipe for our Grapefruit Gin Paloma

 

Beckenham Place Park, Beckenham

This is where south London locals go when they want the full countryside feel without leaving the city. It’s got woodland, wild meadows, and even a swimming lake. Basically, it’s huge—ideal for bigger picnics, frisbee, or a full day out.

Enjoy with a Peach Tea Gin Lemonade: Juicy, bright and easy-drinking—batch it up for a sunny day with mates. 

Get the recipe for our Peach Tea Gin Lemonade

 

Holland Park, Kensington

While everyone else is cramming into Hyde Park or the palace gardens, head to Holland Park. It’s just as lovely and way less chaotic. With Kyoto-style gardens and peacocks strutting about, it’s great for a chilled afternoon date or solo sunbathe.

Enjoy with a Pink Gin Cosmo: Fresh, vibrant and picnic-perfect with a glam twist. 

Get the recipe for our Pink Gin Cosmo

 

Soho Square, Soho

Right in the middle of the action, Soho Square is a buzzing pocket of green in the West End. Expect music, laughter, and a good crowd when the sun’s out. It’s your go-to if you want to squeeze in a picnic between shopping, theatre, or pre-drinks.

Enjoy with a Long Negroni: Cocktail hour just got longer. Bold, bittersweet and made to linger. 

Get the recipe for our Long Negroni

 

Furnival Gardens, Hammersmith

This riverside park is perfect for golden hour hangs. Set right on the Thames, with benches, lawns, and leafy walkways, it’s ideal for catching the sunset after a lazy Sunday.

Enjoy with a Beefeater Bramble: Juicy, tart and made for picnic sipping. Get the recipe for our Beefeater Bramble

 

Mount Street Gardens, Mayfair

Surrounded by grand buildings and tucked behind Grosvenor Chapel, Mount Street Gardens is a hidden gem in the heart of Mayfair. Bring your poshest picnic bits and bask in the calm.

Enjoy with a Gin Basil Smash: Herbaceous, bold and refreshing. A park bench never felt so fancy.

Get the recipe for our Gin Basil Smash

 

Kingsland Road Gardens, Hoxton

Right next to the Museum of the Home, this little garden is a great picnic pitstop before or after a culture fix. Grab something delicious from nearby Broadway Market and make an afternoon of it.

Enjoy with a Beefeater 0.0 Mule: Same bold flavour, no alcohol. Crisp, gingery and picnic-friendly. 

Get the recipe for our Beefeater 0.0 Mule

 

Bishops Park, Fulham

With tennis courts, sculptures, tree-lined walks and a view of the Thames, Bishops Park is a west London favourite. There’s loads of space to stretch out, and you’re just a short walk from the pubs of Putney Bridge.

Enjoy with a Beefeater Gin & Bitter Lemon: A no-fuss classic to sip as the sun goes down. 

Get the recipe for our Gin & Bitter Lemon

 

Want more sips for your summer? Check out our gin cocktails from romantic drinks for your next picnic date, to big batch gin recipes.