London’s nightlife doesn’t have to mean leaving your pet behind. More venues across the city are opening their doors to dogs, cats, and even small pets after dark. You don’t need to choose between a good drink and a good walk - you can have both. Whether you’re looking for a cozy pub with a dog bed by the fireplace or a rooftop bar that lets your pup join you on the terrace, London’s pet-friendly scene is growing fast. And it’s not just about water bowls and treats - some places host weekly pet socials, offer pet menus, and even have trained staff who know how to handle excited fur babies.
Pet-Friendly Pubs That Feel Like Home
Start your night at The Dog & Duck in St. John’s Wood. This isn’t just a pub - it’s a pet lover’s sanctuary. The back garden has a dedicated dog zone with shaded seating, drinking fountains, and even a small agility course made of low hurdles. Locals bring their dogs every Friday for "Pup & Pint" nights, where the bar serves special doggy cocktails - think peanut butter smoothies and chicken broth popsicles. Humans get craft ales, while pups get free treats. No booking needed, but expect a line after 7 p.m.
Another standout is The Albert Arms in Brixton. It’s one of the few pubs in London that allows cats inside. Yes, cats. The owner, a retired vet, keeps a few resident cats lounging on the wooden benches. Patrons often bring their own cats in carriers, and staff will set up a quiet corner with a heated pad and a scratching post. The menu includes "Feline Fizz" - a non-alcoholic sparkling apple cider - and "Paws & Ales" - a selection of low-sodium beef broths for dogs. The vibe? Like a living room with better beer.
Rooftop Bars Where Your Pet Gets a View
Want to sip cocktails with a skyline view while your dog naps beside you? Head to The Sky Garden Bar on the 35th floor of the Walkie Talkie building. It’s one of the few high-rise venues in London that allows leashed pets on its outdoor terrace. The space is open-air, fully enclosed, and has soft grass patches for pets to rest. Staff bring out chilled water bowls on request, and there’s a small pet welcome kit at the entrance - leash clips, poop bags, and a hand-wipe towel. The bar even has a "Pet of the Month" board, where photos of regulars get displayed. Last month’s winner? A 12-year-old Shih Tzu named Mochi who’s been coming every Saturday for two years.
For something more casual, try The Hoxton’s Rooftop in Shoreditch. They allow pets on the lower deck, which is covered and heated. The bar serves "Pup-ccino" - a non-caffeinated blend of oat milk and peanut butter - and has a menu item called "The Doggy Tapas Platter" with turkey bites, sweet potato chips, and carrot sticks. You won’t find this kind of detail at most venues. It’s clear they’ve designed the experience around pets, not just tolerated them.
Clubs and Late-Night Spots That Welcome Paws
Most clubs still say "no pets," but a few are changing that. Pop Brixton - a repurposed shipping container complex in south London - hosts "Paws & Beats" every third Friday. It’s a low-volume, late-night event (10 p.m. to 1 a.m.) with house music, a dog-friendly dance floor (yes, it’s rubberized), and a vet on standby. You can bring dogs of any size, and there’s a free pet portrait station. Last year, over 800 pets attended. No humans under 21, but pets of any age are welcome.
Another surprise? The Jazz Bar in Camden. They allow small pets in the front lounge area during jazz nights. No barking, no jumping on tables - just quiet companionship. They even have a "Pet Jazz Playlist" on Spotify with slow-tempo tracks to help nervous dogs relax. One regular, a 14-year-old rescue terrier named Luna, has her own reserved seat near the soundboard. The staff know her by name.
What Makes a Venue Truly Pet-Friendly?
Not every place that says "dogs welcome" actually gets it right. Real pet-friendly spots have:
- A dedicated pet zone - not just "you can bring your dog if you want"
- Water stations that are cleaned daily
- Staff trained to handle pet behavior, not just ignore it
- Non-slip flooring for paws
- Clear rules posted (no aggressive dogs, leashes required, etc.)
Some places just throw out a bowl and call it good. Others invest in pet safety. Look for venues that offer pet first-aid kits, emergency contact numbers for local vets, and quiet rooms if your pet gets overwhelmed. The best spots even have pet insurance partnerships - like The Horseshoe in Hampstead, which partners with Petplan to give first-time visitors a free 30-day trial.
Events and Monthly Pet Nights
London now has a calendar of pet-specific nightlife events. Here are the ones you shouldn’t miss:
- Pup & Pint Fridays at The Dog & Duck - weekly, 6-10 p.m.
- Paws & Beats at Pop Brixton - third Friday of every month, 10 p.m.-1 a.m.
- Whisker Wednesdays at The Albert Arms - monthly cat meetups, 7-9 p.m.
- Yappy Hour at The Hoxton Rooftop - every Tuesday, 5-7 p.m., with 20% off pet treats
These aren’t gimmicks. They’re community gatherings. People come for the drinks, but stay for the connections - both human and furry. Many pet owners say they’ve made their closest friends through these events.
What to Bring (And What to Leave at Home)
Before heading out, pack smart:
- Leash and harness (even small dogs need control in crowds)
- Water bowl (some venues provide them, but not all)
- Waste bags (yes, even if the venue has bins - clean up immediately)
- Comfort item (a blanket or favorite toy if your pet gets anxious)
- Proof of vaccinations (some venues ask, especially for indoor spaces)
Leave behind:
- Expensive collars (they can get caught or torn)
- Food treats not approved for dogs (no chocolate, raisins, or onions - yes, some people try)
- Too many pets at once (one or two max per person - overcrowding stresses everyone)
Why This Matters
London’s pet-friendly nightlife isn’t just about convenience - it’s about inclusion. Pets are family. And families don’t stop having fun just because someone has four legs. These venues prove that social spaces can be designed for everyone, not just humans. It’s not a trend. It’s a shift. And if you’ve ever felt guilty leaving your dog at home while you went out, now you don’t have to.
Can I bring my cat to a London bar?
Yes - but only at a few places. The Albert Arms in Brixton is the most well-known cat-friendly pub, allowing cats inside in carriers. A handful of others, like The Cat’s Meow in Notting Hill, host monthly cat meetups. Most venues still restrict cats due to noise and space, but the number is growing. Always call ahead.
Are there pet-friendly clubs in London?
Very few, but Pop Brixton’s "Paws & Beats" is the only regular late-night event that allows dogs on the dance floor. It’s low-volume, pet-focused, and staffed with animal handlers. Other clubs may allow leashed pets in entry areas, but dancing with your dog is rare. Don’t expect clubs like Fabric or Printworks to welcome pets.
Do I need to pay extra to bring my pet?
No - not at any of the top pet-friendly venues. Some places offer free pet treats or discounts on pet snacks, but there’s no cover charge for pets. A few high-end rooftop bars might ask for a small deposit on a pet water bowl (refundable), but this is rare. Always confirm before you go.
What if my dog barks or gets excited?
Most venues have clear rules: if your pet becomes disruptive, staff will ask you to step outside until they calm down. They’re not trying to be harsh - they’re protecting other guests and pets. Many places have quiet zones or outdoor areas where you can take your pet for a break. If your dog is nervous in crowds, consider bringing a familiar blanket or toy to help them relax.
Are there pet-friendly events during the week?
Yes - several. "Yappy Hour" at The Hoxton Rooftop happens every Tuesday from 5-7 p.m. with drink and treat discounts. "Whisker Wednesdays" at The Albert Arms is a monthly cat gathering. Some pubs also host "Puppy Yoga" or "Pet Photo Nights" on weekdays. Check local event boards like PetFriendlyLondon.co.uk for weekly updates.
