London’s nightlife doesn’t have to mean leaving your pet at home. More and more venues across the city are opening their doors to dogs, cats, and even rabbits after dark. If you’ve ever wondered where you can grab a craft beer with your pup by your side or enjoy a cocktail while your cat naps under the table, you’re not alone. The city’s pet-friendly scene has grown fast-especially since 2022, when local councils started encouraging businesses to welcome animals as part of post-pandemic recovery efforts. Today, you can find over 120 dog-friendly pubs, 30 cat-tolerant lounges, and even a few spots that offer pet menus and water bowls shaped like bones.
Pubs That Welcome Your Dog Like Family
Some of the best spots for a night out with your dog aren’t fancy-they’re just warm, welcoming, and built for real life. The Red Lion in Hackney is one of those places. It’s been around since 1897, but in 2023, it became the first pub in East London to install a permanent dog ramp and a water station shaped like a fire hydrant. Their staff remembers regulars by name-including the ones with four legs. The menu includes a “Pup Platter” with chicken bits and peanut butter biscuits, and they even have a weekly “Paws & Pints” night every Thursday where local dog trainers show up for free mini-training sessions.
Another favorite is The Bricklayers Arms in Camden. It’s not just dog-friendly-it’s dog-loved. The outdoor patio has heated pads for winter nights, and the bar keeps a stash of dog treats in a labeled tin behind the counter. Owners say their dogs often get more attention than they do. On weekends, the place fills up with people who come just to hang out with their pets. No leash? No problem. As long as your dog is calm and doesn’t jump on strangers, you’re welcome.
Cat-Friendly Lounges and Quiet Bars
Not every pet wants to be the center of attention. If you’ve got a shy cat or a senior dog who gets overwhelmed in crowds, head to The Velvet Rabbit in Peckham. It’s a dimly lit, low-volume bar that opened in 2024 with a strict “no barking, no meowing too loud” policy-and it works. The staff lets you bring your cat in a carrier, and they’ll set it on a cushioned shelf near the window. There’s no music after 9 p.m., and the lighting is soft. They even have a “Cat Comfort Kit” with a small blanket, a pheromone diffuser, and a tiny toy for anxious pets.
For those who prefer something quieter, Whiskers & Whiskey in Notting Hill is a small cocktail bar where cats roam freely between the tables. The owner adopted five rescue cats, and they’ve become the unofficial hosts. You won’t find a menu of “Cat Martini” drinks-just excellent gin and tonics, neat bourbon, and a quiet vibe. Your cat might curl up on your lap, or just nap on the velvet couch nearby. It’s the kind of place where you forget you’re in the middle of a busy city.
Where to Find Pet-Friendly Rooftops and Outdoor Spaces
London’s rooftop bars are usually packed, loud, and strictly no-pets. But that’s changing. The Sky Garden in the City has a new policy: pets are allowed on the lower terrace after 7 p.m. on weekdays and 8 p.m. on weekends. You’ll need to register your pet online ahead of time, and they’ll give you a free pet ID band. The terrace has grass patches, shaded seating, and a water fountain designed for dogs. It’s not a party spot-it’s a place to unwind with your dog under the stars, with views of the Tower Bridge and the Thames.
For something more casual, try The Garden at the George in Brixton. It’s a converted parking lot turned into a green oasis with string lights, fire pits, and a dedicated dog zone with agility tunnels and a small splash pool. They serve craft cider, hot chocolate, and vegan snacks. On Friday nights, they host “Paws in the Park” with live acoustic music and pet photo booths. It’s become a weekly ritual for dozens of local pet owners.
What to Look for in a Pet-Friendly Venue
Not every place that says “dogs welcome” actually is. Some just tolerate them. Here’s what to check before you go:
- Is there a water station? (Not just a bowl on the floor-look for one that’s cleaned daily.)
- Are staff trained to handle pets? (Ask if they’ve had pet first-aid training.)
- Is there a quiet zone? (Even in busy places, some spots are calmer than others.)
- Do they offer pet treats or a special menu? (A sign they really care.)
- Is there outdoor seating? (Crucial for dogs who need to stretch or relieve themselves.)
Also, avoid places that require pets to be in carriers unless your animal is small or elderly. Most dogs just want to walk around, sniff, and be part of the scene. If a bar says “service animals only,” that’s not the place for your pet-even if they’re well-behaved.
When to Skip the Night Out
Not every night is the right night. If your pet has anxiety, is recovering from surgery, or is in heat, skip the pub crawl. Noise, crowds, and strangers can be too much. Also, avoid places that serve alcohol near the pet area-some dogs get sick from spilled drinks or lick spilled beer off the floor. Stick to places with clear boundaries between human and pet zones.
And remember: if your pet starts panting heavily, hiding, or whining, it’s time to go. No one expects you to stay if your pet isn’t having fun. The goal isn’t to prove you can take your pet everywhere-it’s to find places where both of you feel comfortable.
Seasonal Events and Special Nights
London’s pet-friendly nightlife isn’t just weekly-it’s seasonal. Every December, the Winter Paws Festival takes over the South Bank. It’s a two-week event with pet-friendly pop-up bars, hot cocoa stands for dogs, and even a “Santa Paws” photo booth. In 2025, over 8,000 pets attended. It’s free to enter, but you need to book a time slot online.
There’s also the Doggy Drag Night at The George in Brixton, held every third Friday. People dress their dogs in tiny costumes, and the crowd votes on the best-dressed pet. Winners get a free month of pet grooming and a custom bandana. It’s silly, joyful, and surprisingly well-organized.
What’s Next for Pet-Friendly Nightlife in London
The trend isn’t slowing down. In 2025, the City of London approved a pilot program to let pet owners bring their animals into licensed outdoor drinking areas after 10 p.m. on weekends. A new app called PawPass now maps every pet-friendly venue in real time, with filters for size, noise level, and whether they serve pet food. Over 150,000 people use it monthly.
More hotels are also starting to offer “pet-inclusive night out” packages-think dinner at a dog-friendly restaurant, a late-night walk in Hyde Park, and a complimentary pet bed in your room. It’s no longer just about letting pets in. It’s about designing experiences around them.
So next time you’re thinking about going out in London, don’t leave your pet behind. There’s a whole world of nightlife waiting-with wagging tails, purring laps, and a whole lot of love.
Can I bring my cat to a London pub?
Yes, but only in certain places. Most pubs are dog-friendly, but cat-friendly spots are rarer. Look for venues like The Velvet Rabbit in Peckham or Whiskers & Whiskey in Notting Hill, which are designed for quiet, calm pets. Cats usually need to stay in carriers unless the venue specifically allows them to roam. Always call ahead to confirm.
Are there any pet-friendly rooftop bars in London?
Yes. The Sky Garden on the 35th floor of the Walkie Talkie building allows pets on its lower terrace after 7 p.m. on weekdays and 8 p.m. on weekends. You must register your pet online in advance. Other rooftop bars still ban pets, so stick to this one if you want height and a dog-friendly view.
Do I need to pay extra to bring my pet?
No. Legally, businesses can’t charge extra just because you have a pet. However, some places offer optional add-ons like pet treats, special bowls, or photo sessions for a small fee. These are always voluntary. If a venue tries to charge you just for bringing your dog, it’s against the law.
What if my dog barks or gets anxious in a crowded place?
Most pet-friendly venues understand this. If your dog gets overwhelmed, staff will often help you move to a quieter corner or suggest stepping outside for a few minutes. Some even have “pet timeouts” where you can take your dog to a calm room with a bed and water. Don’t feel guilty-your pet’s comfort comes first.
Can I bring my rabbit or guinea pig out at night?
Yes, but only in very few places. The Garden at the George in Brixton allows small pets in secure carriers during their weekend events. Most bars and pubs don’t accommodate small animals due to noise and safety concerns. Always call ahead, and never bring them to loud or crowded spots. They’re not built for nightlife.
Is there a list of all pet-friendly venues in London?
Yes. The app PawPass maps over 120 verified pet-friendly venues across London, updated weekly. It includes reviews from other pet owners, photos of the space, and real-time updates on whether a spot is busy or quiet. You can also filter by pet size, noise tolerance, and whether they serve pet food.
If you're planning a night out with your pet, start with PawPass. Find a spot that matches your pet’s vibe-whether that’s a lively pub with a dog ramp or a quiet lounge with a cat on the couch. The best nights aren’t the ones where you go out alone-they’re the ones where your pet is right there beside you.