The Alexandra / The Loft
Best for: hidden rooftops
Unlike some of the more under-the-radar watering holes littered around Wimbledon Village, The Alexandra is hard to miss, particularly when the sun comes out. With a prime position close to the station, ‘The Alex’ as it is affectionately known by locals, is as good for its late-night discos as it is for its midweek pub grub and generous Sunday roasts. Amble past on a whim and it’s highly unlikely that you’ll bag a coveted spot. However, book ahead online and you may get into The Loft, The Alexandra’s rooftop space. Up here, order juicy burgers from the burger shack alongside a wide selection of beers, ales, wines and spirits. While The Loft is exposed to the elements, heaters keep the al-fresco portion of the bar toasty(ish) through the chillier months.
Address: The Alexandra, 33 Wimbledon Hill Road, London SW19 7NE
Website: alexandrawimbledon.com
601 Queen’s Road
Best for: special occasions
Despite being slap-bang in the middle of Wimbledon’s town centre, this restaurant-slash-bar is easily missed – as it’s set above the station and Centre Court Shopping Centre. Through the large doors on the street level awaits a staircase that appears to stretch up and up, before another door opens to an elegant dining and drinking spaces. Bottomless brunches are as much of a staple here as milestone birthday parties celebrated with magnums of Whispering Angel. Summer evenings on the wraparound terrace can fly by over cocktails (shaken and stirred by the smart bartenders at the circular bar) and a rotation of sharing plates; the sweet potato, pea and spinach falafels are a win, if in doubt.
Address: 601 Queen’s Road, Center Court Shopping Center, No, 4 Queen’s Road, London SW19 8YE
Website: 601queensrd.co.uk
