Museum and gallery cafés with outdoor terraces in London
With summer around the corner, what better way to spend a sunny day than by enjoying art, culture, and a bit of al fresco dining? London is home to some of the world’s most fascinating museums and galleries, and many feature cafés with outdoor terraces where you can relax and take in the atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful spot to reflect on an exhibition or simply want to enjoy a light meal in the fresh air, here’s our guide to some of the best museum and gallery cafés with outdoor terraces in London.
The De Morgan Café at Leighton House
The De Morgan Café at Leighton House. Image credit MTotoe.
#FLODown:Located within the historic Leighton House Museum in Kensington, The De Morgan Café offers a serene courtyard terrace where visitors can enjoy a variety of cakes, pastries, and sandwiches. It’s a peaceful spot to unwind after exploring the museum’s impressive Victorian art collections.
Location: Leighton House, 12 Holland Park Road, London W14 8LZ. Website: leightonhouse.co.uk. Instagram: @leightonhousemuseum
Caffè Estorick at the Estorick Collection
Caffè Estorick at the Estorick Collection. Image credit MTotoe.
#FLODown: Situated in Islington, Caffè Estorick provides a peaceful terrace overlooking the museum’s garden. The café serves Italian-inspired dishes made with seasonal ingredients, complemented by specialty coffees and organic wines. It’s a charming place to relax after viewing modern Italian art exhibitions.
Location: 39a Canonbury Square, London N1 2AN. Website: estorickcollection.org.uk. Instagram: @estorickcollection
The Garden Café at the V&A Museum
The Garden Café at the V&A Museum. Image credit MTotoe.
#FLODown: Located just outside the Victoria and Albert Museum, The Garden Café boasts a tranquil outdoor terrace surrounded by greenery. Visitors can enjoy freshly made cakes, sandwiches, and salads in a peaceful setting, providing a pleasant break from the museum’s extensive collections.
Location: Victoria and Albert Museum, Cromwell Road, London SW7 2RL. Website: vam.ac.uk. Instagram: @vamuseum
Roof Garden Bar & Kitchen at the Southbank Centre
Roof Garden Bar & Kitchen at the Southbank Centre.
#FLODown: Situated on the top of the Southbank Centre, the Roof Garden Bar & Kitchen offers panoramic views of the Thames and London’s skyline. The outdoor terrace is an excellent place to enjoy seasonal dishes and refreshing drinks while taking in the vibrant atmosphere of the Southbank area.
Location: Southbank Centre, Belvedere Road, London SE1 8XX.Website: southbankcentre.co.uk. Instagram: @southbankcentre
The Garden Café at the Garden Museum
Garden Cafe at the Garden Museum. Photo by Photos by Andrew Burton.
#FLODown: Overlooking the museum’s beautiful garden, The Garden Café provides a peaceful outdoor seating area. Visitors can savour seasonal British dishes made with fresh, local ingredients, making it an ideal spot to reflect on the museum’s horticultural exhibits.
Location: The Garden Museum, Lambeth Palace Road, London SE1 7LB.Website: gardenmuseum.org.uk. Instagram: @gardenmuseum
The Café at Camden Art Centre
The Café at Camden Art Centre. Image credit MTotoe.
#FLODown: The café at Camden Art Centre in Hampstead is set in a modernist glass space framed by a secluded garden and an extensive terrace with both covered and open-air seating. The menu features artisan coffee, tea, patisserie, lunch options, and a selection of natural wines and beers. It’s a wonderful place to relax after exploring the contemporary art exhibitions.
Location: Arkwright Road, London NW3 6DH. Website: camdenartscentre.org. Instagram: @camdenartscentre
Barbican Kitchen at the Barbican Centre
The Barbican Centre.
#FLODown: The Barbican Kitchen, within the Barbican Centre, features a spacious outdoor terrace with views of the Centre’s tranquil lakes and gardens. The café offers a diverse menu, including light bites and hearty meals, making it a perfect spot to rest after exploring the cultural venue.
Location: Barbican Centre, Silk Street, London EC2Y 8DS.Website: barbican.org.uk. Instagram: @barbicancentre
Courtyard Café, Royal Academy of Arts
Courtyard Café, Royal Academy of Arts
#FLODown: Surrounded by the Academy’s historic buildings, the Courtyard Café offers a relaxing spot in the heart of Mayfair. It’s the perfect place to enjoy coffee, pastries, or a light meal, whether you’re taking a break after an exhibition or simply soaking up the atmosphere.
Location: Burlington House, Piccadilly, London W1J 0BD. Website: royalacademy.org.uk. Instagram: @royalacademyarts
Brew House at Kenwood House
Brew House at Kenwood House.
#FLODown: Set on the sweeping grounds of Kenwood House, the Brew House has one of the most scenic outdoor terraces in London. It’s a great spot to grab a coffee, a slice of homemade cake, or a light lunch, all while looking out over the peaceful parkland.
Location: Kenwood House, Hampstead Heath, London NW3 7JR. Website: english-heritage.org.uk. Instagram: @englishheritage
Buttery Café at Burgh House
Buttery Café at Burgh House. Image credit MTotoe.
#FLODown: The Buttery Café at Burgh House in Hampstead offers a peaceful outdoor seating area in the house’s historic garden. It’s a great spot to enjoy homemade cakes, light lunches, and drinks after exploring the museum. The menu changes seasonally and uses ethically sourced ingredients. No bookings—just turn up and find a seat.
Location: Burgh House, New End Square, Hampstead, London NW3 1LT. Website: burghhouse.org.uk. Instagram: @burghhouse.
Orangery Café at Ham House and Gardens
The Orangery at Ham House and Garden. August 2023. © MTotoe
#FLODown: The Orangery Café at Ham House in Richmond is a picturesque spot, nestled within the expansive gardens of this historic estate. Fresh, seasonal dishes and delicious scones are served in a truly tranquil setting.
Location: Ham House and Gardens, Ham Street, Richmond, London TW10 7RS.Website: nationaltrust.org.uk. Instagram: @nationaltrust.
