Seasonal Guide
Best Pubs in London for Autumn
Autumn is underrated for outdoor drinking in London. September often brings more actual sunshine hours than June, and the lower sun angle creates beautiful golden afternoon light. As the sun drops lower through October and November, the pubs that face west — which were already in shadow by late afternoon in summer — suddenly get extended evening sun.
Browse by autumn month
September
Still warm with excellent afternoon sun. Often London's sunniest month by hours of actual sunshine.
See the 50 best pubs for September →
October
The sun drops lower — west-facing pubs now shine as the afternoon sun comes in at a flatter angle.
See the 50 best pubs for October →
November
Outdoor season winds down but south-facing spots with good windbreaks remain usable on clear days.
See the 50 best pubs for November →
Which pubs to look for in autumn
West and southwest-facing outdoor spaces are the autumn winners. As the sun drops to a lower altitude through October, it illuminates west-facing walls and terraces that were in the shade of surrounding buildings during high summer. You get long, warm, raking afternoon light — arguably the most beautiful pub garden experience of the year.
Waterfront terraces — which have open horizons to the south and west — tend to score especially well in autumn. See our sunniest waterfront terraces guide.