Oh, the great outdoors. There are few things as good as sitting back in the sun with a refreshing drink and an alfresco meal. As temperatures start to rise, there's no better time to explore the best outside dining spaces. From pretty beer gardens to suntrap terraces, these are the most gorgeous outdoor restaurants in the UK.
Last updated on 20th January 2023
The beer garden of The Duke's Head in Wallington is sure to transport you to the coast with its quirky beach huts. Hire out one of these for your Sunday lunch and you'll get to enjoy all the benefits of being outdoors, without the risk of accidental sunburn.
Treat yourself to a little alfresco dining at the stunning spot that is The Terrace. While beautifully opulent inside, this joint is also home to a stunning rooftop area, where you can indulge in all kinds of globally inspired dishes and artisan pizzas, as well as cocktails or wine.
This quintessentially British country pub not only has that stunning Tudor facade, but also a sprawling outdoor space and alfresco seating galore. Think elevated pub grub, pints and French wine across this beautiful spot.
One of the most gorgeous outdoor restaurants in London, No.197 Chiswick Fire Station knows exactly how to create the perfect flow between indoor and alfreso dining. Head to the neighbourhood restaurant and you can chow down under hanging greenery in the fetching courtyard space.
If you're after outdoor restaurants in Central London, Aviary is hard to beat. With dining pods sitting pretty atop a hotel, it offers panoramic vistas across the city's skyline, alongside unique cocktails and a lineup of elevated British fare to match.
An impressive 16th-century hotel on the banks of the Thames, The Swan is home to one of the best outdoor restaurants in the UK. The menu offers a mouthwatering array of dishes, from fresh smoked trout to Norfolk chicken Kiev, as well as an ample selection of beers and wines.
Dining at Dorset's Summer Lodge is a truly memorable experience. Tuck into plates of European fare, perfectly paired with handpicked bottles, while reclining on the pretty terrace space that showcases the very best of the great British countryside.
The quaint courtyard space of Bothy is ideal for outdoor dining in Glasgow, where the sun dappled garden harks to the botanical touches and gorgeous interiors inside the restaurant. Better yet, there's a seasonal Scottish menu to munch and spirits distilled fresh in the Highlands.
Found on the seafront, The Salt Room is making our list of top outdoor restaurants in Brighton. Head here for uninterrupted ocean views, British seafood and local Sussex produce, all whipped up into the most delish dishes.
As if being housed within a deconsecrated church wasn't enough, Pitcher & Piano Nottingham also boasts a pretty alfresco dining area. Decked out in foliage and set against the backdrop of the splendid structure, this eye-catching terrace is a charming place for cocktails and European fare.
For a fabulous evening with friends, check out Eden in Portmouth. The venue has a stunning outdoor garden, which perfect for any party. Plus, their food offering is equally tantalising, with smoked chorizo croquettes and grilled halloumi making up the menu.
Located just outside of Leeds, in the market town of Wetherby, The Crown Hotel is a beautiful Grade II-listed country pub. Head here for a day of alfresco eating and drinking on its sun-soaked terrace.
In a city as pretty as Bristol, Riverstation still manages to stand out against the crowd. Located on the city's harbourside, the gorgeous outdoor eatery fronts two stunning terrace spaces, perfect for soaking up the sun while you chow down on delicious British plates.
An oasis of bento box brunches, cocktails and floral touches, Sunset by Australasia is one beautiful spot. While their pretty-in-pink interiors might catch your eye, the terrace, which is decked out with foliage and neon signs, is just as much of a draw.
On the hunt for fantastic beer gardens in Norwich? A countryside boozer and hotel pub, The Hoste Arms has plenty of food and drinks to enjoy, from ox cheek pies to pumpkin tortellini and sizzling steaks. Pair with a glass of wine or a beer as you soak up the sun.
Brewhouse & Kitchen have a sprawling beer garden that becomes an essential visit when the sun is shining. Beloved by locals, students and visitors to the city, the pretty pub just shy of Bute Park offers keg-fresh pints and a delicious lineup of juicy burgers.
If you find yourself in Sutton Coldfield this summer, make for Brewhouse & Kitchen and you'll discover a great outdoor eating area, complete with secret shacks, fire pits and a pizza oven. There's no lack of entertainment here either, as the bar provides garden games and plenty of fresh craft beer.
Piccolino Hale offers one of the most beautiful terraces for outdoor dining in the UK, thanks to floor-to-ceiling windows, a fully retractable roof and plenty of stunning blossom. Head here to tuck into Italian plates across the gorgeous space.
With a lovely terrace, 14 Hills is our pick of the best restaurants with outdoor seating in London. Head into the heart of the capital, where you'll find this rooftop destination serving up food as good as the views.
Rockfish is not only a chain of fantastic seafood restaurants, but they're notorious for alfresco dining. Their largest outdoor space can be found at the Plymouth location, where the wooden benches and tables overlook the town's iconic harbourside, adding even more to the experience.
Outdoor restaurants on the South coast of England don't come much better than WestBeach, a beautiful Bournemouth venue with seafood galore. There's brekkies to start the morning, afternoon tapas and DJs come the weekend too.
Bristol is home to many a beautiful building and The Mall in Clifton is absolutely no exception. The pub's most beloved asset? Its secret garden, where you'll find a three-tiered patio that overlooks the city and plays host to some pretty famous BBQ nights.
If you're looking for an outdoor restaurant with gorgeous industrial views, then this Fareham pub is one for your bucket list. Cams Mill sits on the confluence of the River Wallington and the Salterns Lake, offering sweeping views of the water from its patio.
If you're looking to hire out a private outdoor space, Opera Grill in Chester is a real winner. Along with sleek seating and pops of greenery, the venue slings out everything from truffle and leek croquettes to Thai green curries and risottos.
One of the prettiest outdoor restaurants in the UK, The Wiremill is the Surrey pub going above and beyond with its alfresco setup. Nab a table in their lakeside beer garden and tuck into exceptional British dishes and Sunday roasts, washed down with wines from an extensive selection.
With a stunning outdoor terrace area, it's no wonder why Pizza Pilgrims in Oxford is fab for alfresco dining. Enjoy sumptuous slices with all your fave toppings, followed by a few glasses of vino or a delicious chocolatey dessert.
The Fistral Beach Stable is serving up some seriously stunning views of the shoreline, alongside its varied menu of seasonal food and drink. If cider's your tipple of choice, you're sure to enjoy exploring their ample selection, all while sharing pizza slices and watching the sun set over the sea.
Located on Ewell Road in Surrey, Niku Bar is a gorgeous outdoor restaurant decked out with botanical decor. Delve into European-inspired eats alfresco style, all before trying a few bespoke concoctions, or make your way in during the day for bottomless brunch antics.
Channeling NYC vibes with its outdoor terrace, gin-focused drinks list and tasty street food, this is one of the hottest places to go in Newport. Better yet? The Pod offers exclusive igloos that you can book out with a group of pals for the ultimate night out.
With sweeping views across the city's best landmarks, including the castle and Firth of Forth, this rooftop restaurant in Edinburgh is one of a kind. Chaophraya sees you tucking into Thai dishes while admiring the stunning vista.
While the interiors of The Bull on Bell Street are a charming blend of old meets new, it's the beer garden that makes this pub a real stand out. Head here in the warmer months and you'll get to top up your tan in a charming courtyard decorated with rich foliage, fairy lights and painted furniture.
One of the best outdoor restaurants in Belfast, Babel is a fun and friendly rooftop spot promising quality cocktails to wash down your pizza. Better yet, you can nab unlimited slices and a frozen margarita for just £15 on Friday evenings.
Located right beneath Edinburgh Castle, Cold Town House is one of the Scottish capital's most popular places. If you like the sound of soaking up the sun, taking in a little history and chomping on some of the city's best pizza, look no further than this impressive outdoor restaurant in Edinburgh.
Located on the city's waterfront, Apex City Quay Dundee serves up delicious fare all day long, which you can enjoy on their stunning outdoor patio. Take in the incredible views while you chow down on hearty delights from their bar and grill.
Manchester's tallest restaurant is also home to some swoon-worthy interiors. Bringing elements of the outdoors inside the venue, 20 Stories is a gorgeous green escape from city living. If you're craving a little fresh air, their terrace offers an incredible look at the city below.
One of the UK's prettiest rooftops just so happens to be in Liverpool. Located above Oh Me Oh My on Strand Street, it's a gorgeous outdoor restaurant and bar that makes a brilliant location for dinner, cocktails and even afternoon tea.
We all know The Ivy can pull it out the bag when it comes to lavish interiors. But the Roof Garden at their Spinningfields site really is something. Overlooking Manchester with a show-stopping blend of rich foliage, botanical-inspired furnishings and an enviable menu, it's got it all.
One of the prettiest outdoor restaurants in Birmingham, Sky By The Water is a bar and eatery promising food, views and booze. If you're lucky enough to nab one of their sleek dining pods, you and your mates will also be fully protected from all the elements.
Kimbridge Barn is one seriously pretty outdoor restaurant located within the picturesque surroundings of Hampshire's River Test. Whether you're searching for a space to unwind with family and friends over breakfast, brunch, lunch or afternoon tea, this is one gorgeous place to dine in the open air.
Issho is a cool, contemporary Japanese rooftop restaurant in Leeds with a stunning outdoor dining space. If you're craving elevated plates of sushi and robata skewers washed down with cold sake, this sky-high eatery has it all.
A proper country pub overlooking the scenic Berkshire landscape, Crab & Boar really is stunning. Head here to delve into seasonal British cuisine, all while knocking back premium drinks and being surrounded by luscious greenery paired with impressive views.
For garden restaurants in London, look no further than Dalloway Terrace. Head to the West End, where you'll find foliage-packed decor that changes with the seasons, alongside a menu of classic bites, afternoon tea and weekend brunching to match.
