London’s Best Secret Courtyard & Garden Dining Spots
We all know the thrill of stumbling upon a tucked-away terrace or a leafy courtyard that feels like our own private Eden. In London, where outdoor space is a luxury and the city’s rhythm rarely slows, a secret garden table is the ultimate status symbol. But where do the insiders escape for a languid lunch or twilight dinner party, far from the crowds and Instagram queues?
Let’s uncover six of London’s most coveted and discreet courtyard and garden dining spots. Some are brand new, others quietly legendary, all ready to transform our next meal into a quietly decadent affair.
Why Secret Gardens Are the New Luxury
Picture this: We’re sipping English sparkling wine, sunlight dappling through olive branches, a hush of conversation and the scent of jasmine in the air. In a city of spectacle, privacy and tranquillity are the new luxuries. Did you know that a recent survey by The Handbook found that 67% of Londoners now seek “hidden” or “exclusive” venues for special occasions? It’s no wonder the city’s most stylish diners are trading rooftops for secluded courtyards.
The 2025 List: Six Under-the-Radar Courtyard & Garden Dining Spots
1. The Buttery’s Secret Garden, Belgravia
Just five minutes from Victoria, The Buttery’s walled country garden is a revelation. Think parasols, deckchairs, and a menu that leans into seasonal British comfort – truffled wild mushrooms on brioche, buttermilk pancakes, and an open steak sandwich that’s become a quiet legend. The crowd? Discreet, well-heeled, and always in the know.
“The best moments in life are often found in the quietest corners.” Effortless Upgrade
2. The Garden at 116 Pall Mall, St. James’s
Few know that behind the grand façade of 116 Pall Mall lies a lush, tranquil garden open for alfresco dining from April to September. The menu, curated by Searcys, focuses on sustainable British ingredients, think sharing platters and summer spritzers. It’s the ideal spot for a pre-theatre tipple or a post-shop wind-down, just steps from Trafalgar Square.
If you love discovering hidden dining gems, you might also enjoy our curated list of 9 affordable Michelin restaurants in London, proving that elevated cuisine can be surprisingly accessible.
What Makes These Spots Stand Out?
- Exclusivity: Each location is either new or remains under the radar, ensuring a crowd-free experience.
- Atmosphere: Expect lush foliage, artful design, and a sense of escape.
- Menu: From modern British to Pan-Asian, the focus is on quality, seasonality, and joy.
- Confidence & Calm: Dining here isn’t just about food, it’s about self-expression and reclaiming our sense of calm in the city.
For more ways to elevate your London experience, check out our guide to stylish hotel bars or discover London’s best brunches.
3. Jurema Terrace at The Mandrake, Fitzrovia
Jurema is a true urban oasis: hidden above the Mandrake Hotel, it’s draped in greenery and dotted with rattan armchairs. The vibe is South American meets modern European, with cocktails that surprise and small plates that delight. It’s a sanctuary for those who crave both style and serenity, and it’s still flying under the mainstream radar.
Speaking of style, if you’re inspired by spaces that double as art, you’ll want to explore our guide to London’s most Instagrammable hotel rooms, where design meets comfort in the most captivating ways.
4. The Orangery at Number Sixteen, South Kensington
Tucked behind a chic boutique hotel, The Orangery and its garden offer a pastel-hued, tree-filled escape. The menu is relaxed British-European, perfect for a languorous brunch or an intimate dinner. The atmosphere is pure calm, with pastel green furniture and a sense of exclusivity that regulars fiercely protect.
This sense of calm and style echoes the vibe found in Europe’s most Instagrammable cafes, where every detail, from lighting to furniture, invites you to linger and capture the moment. Our feature on cafe culture and design is a must-read for lovers of beautiful spaces and great coffee.
How to Make the Most of Your Secret Garden Escape
- Book ahead: Many of these spots are reservation-only or have limited seating.
- Dress for the occasion: These aren’t places for athleisure, channel your best effortless chic.
- Bring a friend who appreciates the details: The joy is in the discovery.
- Ask for the signature cocktail or dish: Let the staff guide your experience, they’re insiders, too.
5. The Secret Garden Bar at South Place Hotel, The City
Waterfalls, twinkling lights, and a retractable roof set the scene at this hidden terrace in the heart of the City. It’s the ultimate spot for a social occasion, with seasonal installations and a cocktail list designed for celebration. The Secret Garden Bar is available for private hire, but savvy diners know to book a table for spontaneous after-work gatherings.
6. London Secret Garden, South Kensington
This spot is a true hidden gem: five pop-up domes tucked away behind the DoubleTree by Hilton, offering private dining experiences with a Pan-Asian twist. From sushi to Thai curries, the menu is as eclectic as the setting. Afternoon tea here, surrounded by greenery and quiet, feels like a well-guarded secret.
Key Takeaways
- London’s best secret courtyard and garden dining spots offer privacy, style, and a quietly luxurious atmosphere.
- The Buttery, 116 Pall Mall, Jurema Terrace, The Orangery at Number Sixteen, South Place Hotel’s Secret Garden Bar, and London Secret Garden are the places to be in this summer season.
- These venues are perfect for intimate gatherings, special occasions, or simply reclaiming a moment of calm in the city.
- Menus focus on seasonal, high-quality ingredients and curated cocktails.
- For more curated lifestyle upgrades, explore our guides to London’s best brunches and stylish hotel bars.
Where will you escape to next? Sometimes, the most unforgettable evenings begin behind an unmarked gate…
