Written by Felix Wilson
London’s tolerance for barbecues has dipped dramatically over the past few years due to concerns about grass fires, air pollution, litter and rowdy groups. Here are the last few green spots left in London to get your grill on.
Barbecuing in Islington
Islington council made its barbecue ban permanent in 2023, so charcoal and disposable BBQs are off the table in any Islington park — including the popular Highbury Fields. As an alternative, the council is trialling electric hotplates at Paradise Park; check the council page for current availability.
Barbecuing in Southwark
Traditional charcoal, gas and disposable BBQs are still banned across Southwark’s park but Burgess Park has a free permanent electric-hotplate facility, available on a first-come-first-served basis. Check out full details and a tutorial for use on Southwark Council’s website.
Barbecuing banned in Camden
All Camden parks used to allow barbecues during the summer season (April-September) but sadly things have changed. Camden’s barbecue page currently reads, ‘Thank you for visiting Camden’s barbecue webpage. The BBQ season is currently closed. BBQs will not be allowed at Waterlow Park during 2026’. Please don’t try your luck; park staff can and will douse your charcoal mid-party and you could be fined.
Waterlow is still a beautiful park to visit, just leave the grill at home; while you’re up in Highgate, you can still book a self-guided tour of the unusual (and allegedly haunted) West Cemetery, with tickets around £10 (usually £15).
We’ll keep an eye on all of these and let you know if anything changes but we recommend checking with the local council before heading out, as permissions can change quickly due to weather conditions.
If the borough rules aren’t playing ball where you are, for some alternative outdoor summer action have a read of our article:
Rooftop Bars in London for Summertime Fun.
First published Mar 26, 2022. Last update June 04, 2026.
