London’s nightlife doesn’t have to mean leaving your dog at home. If you’ve ever stared longingly at a cozy pub patio while your pup waits patiently by your feet, you know the struggle. But here’s the truth: London has more dog-friendly bars, beer gardens, and late-night hangouts than most people realize. You don’t need to choose between a good drink and a good walk. You can have both.
Pubs That Welcome Paws
Start with The Prince Albert in Brighton Road, Brixton. It’s not just a pub-it’s a local institution with a massive beer garden, a dedicated dog menu (think chicken jerky and bone broth), and staff who’ll bring your pup a water bowl before you even ask. On weekends, it’s packed with people and their dogs, all lounging under string lights. No leash? No problem. Most dogs here are off-leash in the garden, as long as they’re friendly. The owner, a lifelong dog owner herself, keeps a stash of poop bags and treats behind the bar. You’ll find golden retrievers napping under tables and terriers chasing tennis balls between kegs.
Another standout is The Dog & Bull in Camden. This place has been welcoming dogs since 1987. The back courtyard is paved with rubber mats for muddy paws, and there’s even a small agility course made from old beer crates and tunnels. Locals bring their dogs here after work, and by 9 PM, it’s a full-on dog social hour. The staff know regulars by name-and by breed. One regular, a 14-year-old border collie named Buster, has his own stool at the bar. He doesn’t drink, but he gets a free sausage every Friday.
Beer Gardens and Rooftops with a View
If you’re looking for something with a view, head to The Sky Garden at Foster’s Garden. It’s not your typical pub, but it’s one of the few rooftop venues in central London that allows dogs on its outdoor terraces. You need to book ahead, and there’s a limit of two dogs per person, but the 360-degree skyline view over the Thames makes it worth it. Bring your dog’s favorite blanket. The staff will even bring out heated blankets if it’s chilly. The cocktail menu includes a ‘Pup-tini’-a non-alcoholic bone broth mocktail for your pet. Yes, it’s real.
For something more laid-back, The Alma in Waterloo has a huge beer garden that feels like a backyard party. Dogs are welcome inside the main bar too, as long as they’re calm. The menu has vegan and gluten-free options for humans, and a separate dog treat menu with peanut butter biscuits and sweet potato chews. On Thursday nights, they host ‘Pints & Paws’-a weekly event where local dog trainers offer free 10-minute obedience tips while you sip cider. It’s become a cult favorite.
Bars That Don’t Just Tolerate Dogs-They Celebrate Them
Not all dog-friendly spots are pubs. Some are sleek, modern bars that treat pets like VIPs. Take The Hoxton’s rooftop bar in Shoreditch. They don’t just allow dogs-they’ve designed the space with them in mind. There are water stations every 20 feet, shaded loungers with dog beds, and a ‘Doggy Happy Hour’ from 5 to 7 PM every day. The bartenders know which dogs are shy and which ones will beg for a lick of your cocktail (don’t worry, they’re all non-alcoholic).
Then there’s The Alibi in Soho. This speakeasy-style bar has a hidden backroom called ‘The Dog Den’-a velvet-curtained space with low lighting, soft music, and a mini water fountain for pups. You can’t bring your dog into the main bar, but you can book the Den for two hours with your pet. They even have a dog photographer on call for $25. It’s not cheap, but if you’ve ever wanted a professional photo of your dog sipping a mocktail, this is your moment.
Where to Go After 11 PM
Nightlife doesn’t end at 11 PM in London, and neither do pet-friendly options. The Dog House in Peckham stays open until 2 AM on weekends and has a 24-hour water station. The staff rotate shifts so someone’s always on hand to refill bowls or let a nervous pup out for a quick potty break. They even have a ‘Midnight Walk’ service-staff will take your dog for a 10-minute stroll around the block if you’re stuck in a long conversation.
For something more unique, try The Night Garden in Hackney. It’s a pop-up garden bar that opens every Friday and Saturday night. They bring in live acoustic sets, food trucks, and-yes-doggy ice cream. The ice cream is made with coconut milk and peanut butter, and it’s served in biodegradable bowls. You can also rent a doggy hammock for £5, which lets your pup chill while you dance. Last month, they hosted a ‘Pawty’ where 200 dogs showed up. No one got sick. No one got lost. Just happy tails.
What to Bring (And What to Leave at Home)
Before you head out, pack smart. Here’s what works:
- A collapsible water bowl (most places have water, but you’ll want your own)
- Poop bags (yes, even if they’re provided-you’ll need extras)
- A leash (even if off-leash is allowed, it’s polite to keep it handy)
- A favorite toy or blanket (for nervous dogs)
- A treat or two (to reward good behavior)
Leave these behind:
- Chew toys that could get lost or swallowed
- Expensive collars or jewelry (dogs get excited, and things break)
- Other pets (unless you’re sure they get along-most places allow one dog per person)
- Strong perfume or cologne (dogs have sensitive noses)
Real Talk: Not Every Spot Is Perfect
Let’s be honest-not every bar that says ‘dog-friendly’ is actually welcoming. Some places have a sign, but the staff roll their eyes when you walk in with a poodle. Others let dogs in but don’t offer water or treats. Here’s how to tell the difference:
- Look for dog bowls, treats, or a dog menu. If it’s just a sign, ask.
- Watch how staff react. Do they smile? Do they ask about your dog’s name? That’s a good sign.
- Check recent Instagram posts. Real dog-friendly spots have photos of dogs lounging inside.
- Call ahead. Ask if they have a quiet corner for nervous dogs. If they say no, move on.
There’s a place in Canary Wharf that says ‘dogs welcome’ on Google Maps. But when you show up, the manager says, ‘We only allow service dogs.’ Don’t waste your time. Trust your gut.
Why This Matters
London has over 2.3 million dogs. That’s one dog for every five people. And yet, most nightlife guides still treat pets as an afterthought. The truth? Dogs aren’t just companions-they’re part of your social life. A night out shouldn’t mean leaving your best friend behind. The best nightspots in London get that. They’ve built spaces where dogs aren’t tolerated-they’re celebrated. And that’s not just good for pets. It’s good for people too.
Studies show that people who bring their dogs out socially report lower stress levels and stronger community ties. When you’re chatting with someone over a pint while your dog naps at your feet, you’re not just having a drink-you’re building connections. That’s the real magic of dog-friendly nightlife.
Can I bring my cat to dog-friendly bars in London?
Most dog-friendly venues in London only allow dogs. Cats are rarely permitted, even in carriers, because they tend to get stressed in loud, crowded environments. Some private events or pop-ups may allow cats, but these are rare. If you want to take your cat out, look for pet cafés with quiet zones-those are better suited for felines.
Are there any dog-friendly clubs in London?
Traditional nightclubs are almost never dog-friendly. The noise, crowds, and lack of space make them stressful for pets. However, a few venues like The Night Garden in Hackney and The Alma in Waterloo host low-key, music-and-dogs events that feel like parties but aren’t full clubs. These are usually held in outdoor or semi-outdoor spaces with limited capacity and quiet music. If you’re looking for dancing, stick to daytime or early evening events.
Do I need to pay extra to bring my dog?
No, most places don’t charge extra just for bringing your dog. But some premium venues like The Hoxton or The Alibi’s Dog Den may have a small fee for special services-like dog photography or reserved seating. You’ll never be charged for the dog’s presence alone. If a venue asks for a ‘pet deposit,’ it’s not a true dog-friendly spot.
What if my dog is aggressive or shy?
Many dog-friendly venues have quiet corners or separate zones for nervous or reactive dogs. Call ahead and ask. Places like The Prince Albert and The Alma have staff trained to handle anxious pets. If your dog is aggressive, it’s best to avoid crowded spaces altogether. Safety comes first-for your dog and others. Some venues may ask you to leave if your dog poses a risk.
Are there any dog-friendly late-night food options?
Yes. Many dog-friendly pubs and bars offer late-night snacks for humans and dogs. The Dog House in Peckham serves dog-safe burgers (no onions or garlic) until 2 AM. The Night Garden in Hackney has a food truck that makes pup-friendly tacos every weekend. Always check the menu-some places offer ‘doggy plates’ with lean meat, rice, and steamed veggies. Avoid anything with chocolate, grapes, or xylitol.
If you’re new to this, start small. Pick one pub with a garden, bring your dog, and see how they react. Most will love it. And if they don’t? That’s okay too. The point isn’t to force your pet into every scene-it’s to find spaces where both of you feel at home. London’s got them. You just need to know where to look.
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