Sipping in the Sunshine: Beer Gardens and Rooftop Terraces to Book Now
Alexander’s
4–6 High Street, Skipton BD23 1JZ
This award-winning café and bar has it all, but its rooftop terrace is the real highlight. Their heated terrace means you can enjoy a relaxing drink and delicious food, accompanied by magnificent views. The terrace captures the sun from lunch time until sundown, so it’s a special place for you and yours to share.
alexanders-skipton.com
The Alice Hawthorn
The Green, Nun Monkton, York YO26 8EW
Off the beaten track and in the heart of a quaint country village, The Alice is worth a detour. Known for its outstanding food, the new beer garden here is simply stunning (a very popular spot, with old roses and new perennials abound), and whether it’s pizza and a pint, or lobster and champagne you’re craving, it can all be enjoyed in this pretty outdoor space.
thealicehawthorn.com
Angelica
Level 6 Trinity Leeds, 70 Boar Lane, Leeds LS1 6HW
Good times are pending on Angelica’s terrace, and they are taking terrace bookings from 12th April–16th May. Don't forget to try their classic cocktails while you’re there – think daiquiris, martinis and margaritas. With comfy outdoor seating and parasols, you’re sure to find your happy place here.
angelica-leeds.com
ARLO Bistro & Café
36–38 Brentwood Avenue, West Jesmond NE2 3DH
This quirky food haven has a menu where crushed avocado on toast sits alongside the humble bacon sandwich, and waffles dripping in maple syrup rub shoulders with the Korean beef salad. Their new outdoor seating area may be small, but it’s certainly pretty. You can enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner al fresco – it’s up to you.
arlojesmond.com
Barluga
35 Grey Street, Newcastle NE1 6EE
Unit 3D, Sanderson Arcade, Morpeth NE61 1NS
The Old Church, West Avenue, Gosforth NE3 4ES
Whether at Barluga in Newcastle, in Gosforth or in Morpeth, it's a place where you can indulge yourself and entertain your friends, offering a gastro-pub style menu of comfort food, and an a la carte menu of modern British cuisine. You can book your table on the terrace online now – and with pretty plants, cosy seating and twinkling lights, why wouldn’t you?
barluga.co.uk
The Bay Horse
45 The Green, Hurworth DL2 2AA
If you enjoy sophisticated country pubs where the food is top notch, the wine-list is well above average and the beers are just right, then be sure to back this horse. Their beautiful beer garden is the place to be in spring and summer to catch some rays while catching up.
thebayhorsehurworth.com
The Blackbird Ponteland
North Road, Ponteland NE20 9UH
This historic pub dates back more than 500 years, and remnants of its past can be found in every corner, from the beautiful Tudor fireplace to the ancient arched entrance way. Their outdoor area is just as delightful with parasols and rustic benches. They’re expecting their garden to be as popular as it was last summer, and you can already book their outdoor tables for al fresco dining.
theblackbirdponteland.co.uk
The Black Bull Moulton
Moulton DL10 6QJ
The Black Bull is a sleek pub-restaurant combining vintage and modern decor, serving seafood, steaks and hearty mains. Nothing beats watching the Moulton sunset from their stunning terrace – and four-legged friends are welcome to join.
theblackbullmoulton.com
Black Horse Inn
7 Lumley Lane, Kirkby Fleetham DL7 0SH
This stylish inn offers globally-inspired pub food and holds an AA rosette for the quality of their kitchen. Their quaint beer garden boasts scenic views of the surrounding countryside, making it the perfect place to relax with a pint in hand.
blackhorseinnkirkbyfleetham.com
The Botanist
Monument Mall, Newcastle NE1 7AL
The heart of The Botanist experience is still all about the people and the atmosphere. While the world around us has changed, there's no change in the passion that goes into creating their menus (particularly their cocktail menu) and no change in the stunning terrace overlooking the city centre (it's very photogenic, with pretty plants on every corner).
thebotanist.uk.com
The Carpenters Arms
Felixkirk, Thirsk YO7 2DP
This restaurant is located overlooking the beautiful Vale of Mowbray – a spectacular backdrop for a relaxed and delicious meal. So in the warmer months the tiered terrace is the place to be – a great spot for al fresco dining. Don’t believe us? Take their 360 tour online to see exactly what we mean.
thecarpentersarmsfelixkirk.com
Cook House
Foundry Lane Studios, Foundry Lane, Newcastle NE6 1LH
Casual, all day dining is the name of the game here – especially outdoors in spring. Originally housed in two converted shipping containers overlooking Newcastle’s Ouseburn river, Cook House now has two floors, a dining terrace, shop and gardens. It’s a haven for all with quality food made with seasonal produce. They’re taking outdoor bookings from 14th April.
cookhouse.org
Chaophraya
15 Upper Level, Greys Quarter, Eldon Square, Newcastle, NE1 7AP
Located in the heart of Newcastle, you can perch above the city at Chaophraya. Their team of expert chefs, headed up by owner Kim, bring together classic Thai and distinct signature dishes, including vegan and gluten-free options, accompanied by a fantastic range of cocktails, wines and beers. With views out to Grey’s Monument, join your friends and family for cocktails or coffee and sit on their stunning (but covered) rooftop terrace.
chaophraya.co.uk
The Durham Ox
Westway, Crayke, York YO61 4TE
This award-winning traditional pub, complete with flagstone floors, exposed beams, oak panelling and roaring fires, is amazing indoors – but it's just as lovely outdoors in spring. Their outdoor seating area is complete with rustic and cosy vibes – with the fires lit, the heaters on and blankets at the ready, it’s comfortable on cooler days too.
thedurhamox.com
The Fat Badger
Cold Bath Road, Harrogate HG2 0NF
Smack bang in the middle of the Montpellier Quarter, you’ll find one of our favourite traditional English pubs. Serving up local cask ales, exciting cocktails, fine wines and AA Rosette award-winning modern British food, it's no wonder it’s so loved. The Fat Badger beer garden looks to be the place to be for drinks in Harrogate this April.
thefatbadgerharrogate.com
The Fox Hole
Piercebridge, Darlington DL2 3SJ
This popular pub and restaurant has a sophisticated menu including dishes like lamb shank tagines and mezze sharing platters, with a range of sandwiches on homemade bread for a lighter bite. Their takeouts have been proving popular but soon you’ll be able to enjoy your feast al fresco in their beautiful beer garden.
the-foxhole.co.uk
Grantley Hall
Ripon, North Yorkshire HG4 3ET
Set among beautifully-manicured gardens, with the tranquil sounds of the River Skell in the background, Norton Bar & Courtyard at Grantley Hall serves classic cocktails, tantalising spirits and dishes created using the freshest and most authentic Yorkshire ingredients. Bask in the Yorkshire sunshine, dining al fresco while you relax and unwind.
grantleyhall.co.uk
Hibou Blanc
High Bridge Street, Newcastle NE1 1EN
Hibou Blanc exudes 1920s elegance and glamour, and offers modern and well-executed menus. Spend an afternoon or early evening here enjoying their two-course set menu of classic dishes, washed down with a cocktail from their carefully-curated selection. Picture the scene: a cold glass of wine in hand and the sun shining. The end is in sight, and although small, the outdoor area here means you can enjoy just that in tranquillity.
hiboublanc.co.uk
Horticulture Newcastle
1–3 Market Lane, Newcastle NE1 6QQ
We can’t wait to get back to this spot on Market Lane and start our day with their Muckle breakfast, or end an evening with one of their famous espresso martinis on the terrace. They’re planning to open their outdoor terrace for bookings from 12th April for brunch, drinks and light bites every day.
horticultureuk.co.uk
Kennedy’s
1 Little Stonegate, York YO1 8AX
Whether you’re dreaming of somewhere where you can catch up with friends over a bottle or two, relax with a coffee in hand or have a romantic dinner – Kennedy’s has it all. While their front-of-house has had a bit of a face lift, their roof terrace remains just as beautiful as ever, and the perfect place to sip a gin of your choice.
kennedysbaryork.co.uk
The Lexington Rooftop Bar & Terrace
DoubleTree by Hilton, 24 Ferensway, Hull HU2 8NH
While the sun shines, we can’t think of anything better than sitting on this terrace sipping cocktails. When the sun sets, the outdoor heaters will allow you to stay a little longer. We’ve got our eye on the Old Fashioned (coffee-infused Black Barrel Mount Gay Rum, oak aged, sugar cane syrup and bitters) and a Bonegroni (Mason’s Tea Gin, Bonanto aperitif and Campari).
thelexingtonbar.co.uk
Lotus Lounge
Fairfax Court, 32–34 High Street, Yarm TS15 9AE
It’s all about steaks, parmos and cocktails here – a fantastic mix for any Teessider. Lotus Lounge is a restaurant, bar, café and grill all in one so there’s plenty for everyone to enjoy outdoors. The roof terrace here is packed with plenty of pretty plants and faux turf (accompanied by views across Yarm), making it the perfect Insta location.
lotus-lounge.co.uk
Middleton Lodge, Coach House
Middleton Lodge, Kneeton Lane, Middleton Tyas, Richmond DL10 6NJ
Serving an ever-changing seasonal menu, inspired by the nearby working Kitchen Garden, the Coach House at Middleton Lodge could be your new go-to for al fresco dining. The exclusive outside dining area will be complete with a stretch tent, overlooking endless Yorkshire countryside. Sit back and enjoy the spring sun while ordering quality dishes, for lunch or dinner, all to be washed down with fresh spring cocktails, hand-picked wines or delicious homemade cordial.
middletonlodge.co.uk/coach-house-restaurant
The Punch Bowl
Marton-cum-Grafton, Boroughbridge YO51 9QY
Everyone’s welcome to unwind at this independently-owned and operated pub, which prides itself on its high-grade food and the depth and breadth of its ale and wine selection. Dogs are particularly welcome – and there are towels on hand to dry off any particularly mucky pups after a walk. Their outdoor seating is simply beautiful, with floral decorations dotted around the tables.
thepunchbowlmartoncumgrafton.com
The Scruffy Duck
3 High Street, Norton TS20 1AH
The Scruffy Duck is a quintessentially British pub with heaps of character, located in the heart of Norton. Serving traditional locally-sourced food and an extensive wine list, it’s a favourite among the villagers here. Their modern beer garden has plenty of outdoor heaters to keep you warm later in the evening.
thescruffyduck.co.uk
Qubana
1–3 Wood Street, Wakefield WF1 2EL
This Cuban and Spanish tapas restaurant and bar is the perfect location to catch up with friends, with hidden treasures throughout the interior – which is a former bank. But, before we’re allowed back inside, their terrace is awaiting us in the near future. When the sun sets, hanging lights decorate the terrace and heaters will be lit.
qubana.co.uk
Shibden Mill Inn
Shibden Mill Fold, Halifax HX3 7UL
The food alone is a good enough reason to visit Shibden Mill Inn, but being surrounded by the idyllic Shibden Valley, why wouldn’t you want to sit outside? The fine selection of Cask Marque-accredited ales and its warm and friendly atmosphere mean you’ll want to stay. They aren't currently taking bookings for outdoor seating though – it’ll be first come, first served.
shibdenmillinn.com
Above
Castle Garth, Newcastle NE1 1RQ
Family business, the Gainford Group, is gearing up to reopen the doors of its leisure venues soon. Their new project includes the launch of the outdoor section of the ‘Above' venue at The Vermont Hotel, which will be a multi-use leisure site to host a rooftop cinema, weddings and conferences, alongside the bar. From the pictures, it already looks amazing. The Above bar takes up the whole footprint of the Vermont Hotel’s rooftop!
abovenewcastle.com
White Swan
Main Road, Ovingham, Prudhoe NE42 6AG
The White Swan is situated in the beautiful village of Ovingham in the Tyne Valley, serving the best quality pub grub, daily specials, and Sunday lunches. Following the recent announcement, we can’t wait to get our tables booked in the tipi and beer garden here.
thewhiteswanovingham.co.uk
William and Victoria, Harrogate
6 Cold Bath Road, Harrogate HG2 0NA
Harrogate’s longest-running wine bar (and one of the best loved independent restaurants in the area) just couldn’t be missed off our list. Their simple, classic British dishes celebrate Yorkshire produce, and are served in a friendly and welcoming environment. Following the announcement, they are busy working on their al fresco dining experience and the return of their gazebo.
williamandvictoria.com
*In a world of constant change, please check with individual venues closer to the time for reopening details and exact opening times. While some haven’t announced their plans yet, we’re hopeful for all of our local bars to thrive post-lockdown.
**Whilst we keep our fingers crossed for some sunshine this spring, don’t forget the weather in the North is always unpredictable, and the terraces are open to the elements, so pack a brolly.