If there’s one thing London does surprisingly well, it’s hidden garden escapes — and this April, a new (well, newly refreshed) contender is stepping into the spotlight. Say hello to the terrace at The Royal Horseguards Hotel, reopening on 13th April just in time for sunnier days.
Tucked beside Whitehall Gardens and just a short stroll from the River Thames, this alfresco spot feels like a little exhale away from the city buzz. It’s giving quintessential English garden — think wicker chairs, cosy throws, and lush greenery everywhere you look — but with a seriously good backdrop (hello, London Eye views).
The terrace leans into the hotel’s rich history (we’re talking former guests like Winston Churchill and David Lloyd George), but the vibe is anything but stuffy. It’s relaxed, welcoming, and ideal for long lunches that accidentally turn into evening drinks.
And speaking of… the food menu is all about easy, seasonal dining. You’ve got light starters like oak smoked salmon, burrata with heritage beetroot, and crispy squid, alongside comforting classics (yes, there’s fish & chips) and summery plates like quinoa salad and pan-fried salmon.
Feeling indulgent? There’s ribeye, prawn linguine, burgers — and desserts like raspberry Eton Mess and blueberry cheesecake to finish things properly.
The drinks deserve their own moment too. The Terrace Spritz (with Beefeater 24, elderflower tonic, and apple) is basically summer in a glass, while the Raspberry Fizzante and a twist on a Pimm’s spritz keep things fun and very sip-able.
But here’s the real headline: it’s dog-friendly — and not in a “we tolerate dogs” kind of way, but a genuinely welcoming, bring-your-four-legged-bestie-along vibe. Well-behaved pups are invited to lounge right alongside their owners, making this one of those rare central London spots where you don’t have to choose between a cute day out and your dog.
So whether it’s a lazy afternoon in the sun, a casual date night, or a catch-up that turns into “just one more drink,” this terrace has all the makings of a go-to summer hangout — especially if your dog’s on the guest list too.
The Royal Horseguards Hotel
The Terrace
2 Whitehall Court
London SW1A 2EJ
www.royalhorseguardshotel.com
Instagram.com – theroyalhorseguardshotel
