Winter terraces are back, injecting a bit of magic into the dreariest time of the year, weather wise that is. 

There are plenty of cosy terraces and snug rooftop bars ready to welcome punters in for alfresco dining or drinks north of the river. 

Whether you're near King's Cross or along Marylebone way, here are the best winter terraces and rooftop bars in north London

1 The Drop, Coal Drops Yard

Coal Drops Yard’s wine bar is charming all year round with its wine barrel tables and position under the arches. The covered outdoor space gets warmed up by heaters for winter

Address: 22-24 Bagley Walk Arches, Coal Drops Yard, N1C 4DH

Website: thedropbar.co.uk

2 Big Chill Kings Cross

Not far from King’s Cross station, Big Chill’s north London outpost is a large venue sprawling across three floors. The roof top bar is ready for action all year round, with its retractable roof and wall heaters.  Head here for drag brunches or DJ nights and everything in between.

Address: 257-259, Pentonville Road, King’s Cross N1 9NL

Website: bigchillbar.com

3 Bubba Oasis, Islington

This mixed-use space comes with a snug roof top terrace warmed up by heaters. It may not come with a view, but the coworking space, all-day dining spot and bar with DJs, has made its terrace a chilled alfresco spot whatever the weather is doing.

Address: 57-58 Upper Street, Islington N1 0NY

Website: bubbaoasis.com

4 Caravan, Granary Square

The popular all-day dining and café has winter-readied its outdoor area, adding heaters and throws to its partially covered terrace. Although its breakfasts are recommended, you might want to visit for a cocktail or two..

Address: 1 Granary Square, King’s Cross N1C 4AA

Website: caravanandco.com

5 Madison, St Paul’s 

Madison’s famous party party rooftop terrace comes with cracking views of St Pauls’ Cathedral, and is just as lively in winter as it is in summer – it's one for the brave. For winter, find warming cocktail specials, wintery foliage, festive decorations, heated seats, DJs every night and that rockstar view of St. Paul’s.  

Address: Rooftop Terrace, One New Change, St Paul’s EC4M 9AF 

Website: madisonlondon.net

 

6  Rosewood London, Holborn 

Rosewood London’s courtyard winter transformations are constantly of wonderland proportions and come with Highland twangs. Fairy lights, faux fur, cushions and velvet throws make things feel cosy as mulled wine and cool cocktails set the tone for a menu of winter dishes by Holborn Dining Room. 

Address: 252 High Holborn WC1V 7EN 

Website: rosewoodhotels.com 

7 The Churchill Bar & Terrace, Marylebone 

Somewhat of a secreted treasure, Churchill Bar’s award-winning alfresco terrace at Hyatt Regency London offers up faux fur rugs and blankets, winter cocktails and dishes that Sir Winston Churchill would certainly approve of. There’s a small plates and nibbles menu to graze on while you’re there.  

Address: Hyatt Regency, 30 Portman Square, Marylebone W1H 7BH 

Website: thechurchillbar.co.uk 

8 The Lighterman, Granary Square

With a prime spot overlooking the canal, this three-floor venue comes with floor to ceiling windows on every level, and a canal facing terrace covered with parasols and warmed up with heaters. Find a second terrace – albeit smaller and more of a balcony, off the third level dinning room

Address: 3 Granary Square, King’s Cross N1C 4BH

Website: thelighterman.co.uk