Image courtesy Alexandra Palace. Credit: Adrian James White

The RundownLondon

Five Things To Know About London’s Biggest Beer Garden

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Before you visit a new spot, what do you want –or need – to know the most? In this new series, The Rundown, we’re sharing all the essentials about newly opened (as well as favourite) Resy restaurants and venues.

This week, we’re taking a look at the much-anticipated Terrace at Alexandra Palace, the sprawling new outdoor space at the iconic Grade II-listed property, dedicated to all things al fresco, with literal acres of room and one of the most breathtaking views anywhere in the city. Is it London’s biggest beer garden? Probably.

Read ahead to get the rundown on all the essential details.


1. It’s arguably London’s largest beer garden

With room for up to 400 guests seated across separate sections, the terrace is massive. There’s no shortage of space, with picnic-style benches generously spread out, the dramatic backdrop of Alexandra Palace behind, and a panoramic view of the entire city unfurling out front.

As well as parasols for warm days and a central pergola for a lucky few (move quickly to request this), there’s acres of astroturf to emulate hanging in the park – with everything brought to you, of course. Entrance is free of charge, with tables available for up to three and a half hours – but it’s popular, so be sure to secure something in advance.

Credit: Lloyd Winters

2. The food and drink lineup has all the bases covered.

In place of a restaurant, a lineup of food trucks provides ample provisions for those planning to stay awhile. ­­The ever-popular Browski Burger guys have returned for the 2021 season, with smashburgers formed from aged chuck steak; buttermilk fried chicken sandwiches; chicken tenders; and loaded fries. Sunshine eats come courtesy of Hermanos, who offer tacos with pressed corn tortillas as a base, complimented with toppings like ground beef and habanero chilli, fork-tender pork shoulder, or roasted squash and sweetcorn.

Meanwhile, vegetarians and vegans are looked after by local outfit Last Night a Vegan Saved My Life, proffering plant-based comfort plates like vegan fried chick’n sandwiches, popcorn chick’n, and vegan cheeseburgers with Big Mac sauce. All ordering is available via the Ally Pally’s dedicated app.

Credit: Adrian James White

3. Everything is socially distanced, with strict COVID protocols and table service — so there’s no need to queue.

The vastness of the space – with tables spread generously – allows for genuine distancing, while the outdoor setup makes it tough to beat as a destination for socially distanced meets. With different sections and room for up to 400 guests, it’s difficult to overstate the size of the ‘terrace’.

Additionally, Ally Pally’s own ordering app also ensures that no queueing is required – just select your desired dishes or drinks, pay in the app, and they’ll be brought to your table.

4. Make a day of it. 

Part of the appeal of the venue, of course, is the fact that the Grade II-listed palace and location are something to behold. But also, a visit to the terrace makes for a fitting kickoff or end point to a morning or afternoon exploring the structure’s sprawling grounds, high up above the city.

Spread over 196 acres, the grounds make for an idyllic getaway from the city – for locals and north London tourists alike – with plenty on offer in terms of activities. Furthermore, a summer series of open air concerts and Ally Pally’s yearly street food festival make a visit all the more enticing.

Credit: Lloyd Winters

5. The view really is something else.

Need we say more?


The Terrace at Alexandra Palace is now open for outdoor dining and drinks.