London’s nightlife doesn’t have to mean leaving your pet behind. You don’t need to choose between a cold pint and your dog’s wagging tail-there are dozens of spots across the city where pets are not just allowed, but welcomed. From cozy gin bars with water bowls on the floor to rooftop terraces where dogs lounge beside their owners, London’s pet-friendly scene is thriving. And it’s not just about letting your pup sit outside. These places have thought through the details: non-slip floors, pet menus, even doggy happy hours.
Where to Grab a Drink With Your Dog in London
Start with The Horseshoe in Hampstead. This 18th-century pub has a large, fenced garden where dogs can roam freely while their owners sip craft ales. The staff keep a bucket of fresh water by the door, and they’ll even bring out a dog biscuit if your pup looks especially well-behaved. It’s not fancy, but it’s real-locals bring their rescue dogs here every Friday night. The owner once told a reporter, “If they’re quiet and clean, they’re family.”
In Shoreditch, Bar 22 has a dedicated “Paws & Pints” night every Thursday. For £5, you get a drink for you and a treat for your dog. The menu includes peanut butter pupcakes and chicken jerky bites. The bar also partners with local shelters, so if you’re thinking of adopting, they’ll have a dog on-site that night-sometimes even with a leash and collar ready to go.
Don’t miss The Wag & Brew in Camden. This place was built by a former vet who turned her love for dogs into a full-time business. The outdoor patio has heated dog beds, and the indoor area has a wall-mounted water fountain that runs 24/7. They even have a “Bark & Brew” loyalty card: get five drinks, get the sixth free-for you and your dog.
Late-Night Eats That Welcome Paws
London’s food scene doesn’t shut down just because your dog can’t sit at a table. At The Dog House Kitchen in Brixton, you can order a gourmet burger for yourself and a “Paw-ple” meal for your pup-grilled chicken, sweet potato, and pumpkin puree, served on a ceramic plate. They’ve served over 12,000 dog meals since opening in 2022. The owner keeps a photo wall of regulars: a golden retriever named Milo who’s been coming since he was a puppy, a Chihuahua who always steals fries, and a blind poodle who walks in like he owns the place.
In Peckham, Barrio offers a “Dogs & Tacos” deal every Friday and Saturday after 9 p.m. Bring your dog, get 20% off your order, and they’ll give you a free mini taco for your pup. The staff know the regulars by name-and their dogs’ favorite treats. One regular, a 13-year-old border collie named Rusty, gets a special “senior pup” portion with softer meat and no spices.
Outdoor Rooftops and Beer Gardens That Let Dogs Stay
Some of London’s best views come with a side of tail wags. The Roof Garden at The Standard Hotel in King’s Cross lets dogs on the terrace until 11 p.m. They provide shaded spots, cooling mats, and even a “doggy concierge” who’ll walk your pup if you need to use the restroom. The view of the city skyline at night? Unbeatable. The sight of a small terrier snoozing on a cushion beside you? Priceless.
Over in Dalston, Bar on the Hill has one of the city’s largest pet-friendly beer gardens. Dogs can run off-leash in the designated zone, and the bar serves “Pup-achino” drinks-unsweetened almond milk with a splash of peanut butter. It’s become a weekend ritual for young professionals and their dogs. One couple even met here: she brought her beagle, he brought his corgi, and now they’re engaged.
What Makes a Nightspot Truly Pet-Friendly?
It’s not just about letting dogs in. Real pet-friendly spots have systems in place. Look for these signs:
- Water bowls at the entrance or table
- Non-slip flooring (no wet tiles that make dogs slide)
- Separate outdoor seating with fencing or barriers
- Staff who know basic dog behavior (no one shooing a dog away)
- On-site pet treats or a small menu for dogs
- Clear rules posted-like “no aggressive dogs” or “please clean up after your pet”
Places that skip these details? They’re just “dog-tolerant.” The best spots make you feel like your pet belongs there-not like you’re asking a favor.
Rules and Etiquette: How to Be a Responsible Pet Owner Out at Night
Even in the most welcoming places, you’re still responsible. Here’s what works:
- Keep your dog on a leash unless it’s a clearly marked off-leash zone
- Bring poop bags-even if the place has them, bring your own
- Don’t let your dog jump on tables or beg from other guests
- Watch for signs of stress: panting, pacing, hiding-take them outside if they seem overwhelmed
- Respect quiet hours. If it’s past 11 p.m. and your dog is barking, it’s time to go
One thing many new pet owners don’t realize: dogs can get overstimulated in loud, crowded places. A bar full of music, strangers, and other dogs can be exhausting. If your dog usually naps after dinner but is suddenly hyper or clingy, it’s not being “fun”-it’s overwhelmed.
Seasonal Events and Pet-Friendly Nightlife Calendar
London’s pet-friendly scene gets even livelier in the colder months. In November 2025, Paws in the Park launched its first winter night market at Victoria Park. Over 40 vendors set up with hot cocoa, mulled wine, and dog treats. There were even pet photo booths with holiday props. Over 5,000 dogs attended the first weekend.
Look out for these recurring events:
- Doggy Disco at The Old Blue Last (last Friday of every month)
- Midnight Pup Walk in Regent’s Park (every Saturday at 11 p.m., organized by local dog walkers)
- Pet Pub Crawl in Soho (every third Thursday, 10 spots, free dog bandana included)
These aren’t gimmicks. They’re community events built by people who know their pets are part of their social life.
What If Your Pet Isn’t a Dog?
Most of the spots listed here welcome cats, rabbits, and even small birds-though you’ll need to call ahead. The Cat’s Meow in Notting Hill is a quiet bar with a dedicated “feline lounge” where cats can nap on velvet cushions while their owners sip tea. They don’t allow dogs inside, but they’ve got a window seat where you can watch the neighborhood cats stroll by.
For rabbits and guinea pigs, Green & Co. in Islington has a special “Small Pet Sunday” with herbal treats and a quiet corner with soft lighting. It’s not loud, it’s not crowded, and it’s perfect for pets who get nervous in noise.
Final Tip: Bring the Right Gear
Don’t just show up with a leash. Pack a small bag with:
- Collapsible water bowl
- Extra leash (in case one breaks)
- Wipes or a damp cloth (for muddy paws)
- A favorite toy or blanket for comfort
- A small treat or two (to reward calm behavior)
Most places won’t mind if you bring your own stuff. In fact, they’ll appreciate it.
Can I bring my cat to a London pub?
Yes-but only at specific places. Most pubs are dog-focused, but a few, like The Cat’s Meow in Notting Hill, are designed for cats. They offer quiet zones, low lighting, and no loud music. Always call ahead. Cats don’t handle crowds well, and not every staff member is comfortable with them.
Are there any 24-hour pet-friendly bars in London?
No 24-hour bars in London officially allow pets inside after midnight. But some, like The Wag & Brew in Camden, keep their outdoor patio open until 1 a.m. with water bowls and treats available. If you’re out late, plan ahead-most pet-friendly spots close by 11 p.m. or midnight.
What if my dog is aggressive or reactive?
Most pet-friendly venues have a strict “no aggressive dogs” policy. If your dog barks, lunges, or shows signs of fear or aggression, it’s best to leave them at home. This isn’t about being judgmental-it’s about safety. Other guests and their pets deserve to feel safe too. Look for private dog parks or quiet walks instead.
Do these places charge extra for pets?
No reputable pet-friendly spot charges a fee just for bringing your dog. Some offer paid dog treats or special menus, but that’s optional. If a place asks for a “pet deposit” or “pet cover charge,” it’s not truly pet-friendly-it’s just cashing in on the trend.
Can I bring my emotional support animal to these places?
Yes-emotional support animals are treated the same as pets in London’s pet-friendly venues. There’s no legal distinction here like in the U.S. As long as your animal is calm, clean, and on a leash, you’re welcome. No paperwork is required, and staff won’t ask for proof.
If you’re looking for a night out that doesn’t mean leaving your pet behind, London has you covered. It’s not about luxury-it’s about belonging. Your dog isn’t a burden. They’re your reason for choosing a place. And in London’s best pet-friendly spots, they’re treated like one.
