WHITE HART, BARNES

Idyllic is the word that springs to mind when describing this historic pub’s sun-trap terrace overlooking the River Thames. Popular with pretty much everyone, the other big attractions (aside from the terrace) are the huge Aperol Spritz, tasty food (we’ll have the plant burger and parmesan truffle chips, thanks) and the fact the owners care about the local environment, including a Big River Clean Fest this Saturday (29 June). Little wonder it’s nicknamed the Barnes’ Riviera.

THE CUTTY SARK, GREENWICH

Muddy’s enjoyed some loooong lunches (ok boozy afternoons) at this lovely local by Ballast Quay next to the Thames. Our recipe for success? Order a Mojito Spritz pitcher, grab a table outside, admire the Canary Wharf views and share a Quayside Board (whitebait, garlic butter prawns, haddock goujons, crispy squid, mussels) when hunger hits. Sunday in the sunshine sorted.

THE OLD SHIP, HAMMERSMITH

Dog-friendly, family-friendly, foodie-friendly, friend-friendly – this 300-year-old stunner by the water ticks all our boxes when it comes to top London pubbing. Just a stroll from the tube, it lays claim to Hammersmith’s best riverside view (we’re not going to argue) and tables on the terrace are first come, first served, meaning even the disorganised stand a chance of enjoying an afternoon al fresco by the river.

BELL & CROWN, CHISWICK

Chiswick’s home to a number of picturesque waterside pubs (check out The City Barge too), but Muddy has a soft spot for the Bell & Crown because, well, look at it. Picnic tables by the water, a decent wine list (there’s even a Brut Rosé from West Sussex) and beer battered haddock and chips on the menu make this our happy place for a relaxing lunch or sunset dinner.

THE LIGHTERMAN, KING’S CROSS

If you don’t want traditional pub vibes, how about sipping a Sangria outside this contemporary canalside drinking hole in the heart of the city? The Lighterman’s spread over three floors plus a terrace, so there’s plenty of room for people to party on a hot summer’s weekend, and its food is thoroughly modern too, think roasted beets, English goats curd and toasted hazelnuts.

THE GUN, DOCKLANDS

For a waterside sunset spot, head straight to the Gin Garden of this Grade II-listed pub. That’s right, it’s all about the gin here, with a varied selection and garnishes and blends from the pub’s own herb garden. Aside from the G&Ts, other things to distract you from the view include table tennis, Giant Jenga and wondering how to get home (Canary Wharf tube station’s actually only a 20 min walk).

CRATE BREWERY, HACKNEY WICK

If you want your waterside drinking experience to come with a side of urban cool, this is the pub for you. Located next to the River Lea, the added bonus here are the hand-rolled, stone-baked pizzas, which you can wash down with a chilled Crate beer. Bliss. Look at the event listings for live music too.