The best outdoor dining destinations in Yorkshire

We all know the county of Yorkshire isn’t notorious for its fantastic weather. We also all know how unpredictable the great British weather can be. However, you still can’t beat enjoying a delicious meal, soaking up the sunshine on an outdoor terrace at your favourite restaurant. Pretend you’re in a sunny Mediterranean city as you sip on your favourite cocktail and chow down on your favourite summery dish.

Whether you’re fancying some light bites for an al fresco lunch or a boozy bottomless brunch in the sun, our guide has you covered. Here are some of the best outdoor dining spots near you.

Outdoor Dining in North Yorkshire 

Seaview Restaurant, Saltburn by the Sea

The first venue to kick off our list is the Seaview Restaurant at Saltburn by the Sea, the ideal destination for seafood lovers. Seaview does what it says on the tin, providing an unrivalled sea view on the North Yorkshire coast. You can easily pretend you’re sitting on a terrace in the White Isles instead of a Victorian seaside town. Expect the freshest Yorkshire seafood, the best sunset views and stunning décor.

SORA, York

Next up, we have Sora. Sitting prettily on the 7th floor of luxury hotel Malmaison in York, the newly opened rooftop bar and restaurant serves up some of the best pan-Asian food in the city. Sip on your favourite cocktail while taking in the views of the minster. Or watch dusk fall on the city while snuggled up to an outdoor heater grazing on a Sashimi Platter.

Abbey Inn, Byland

Fancy tucking into a Salt-aged Beef Rump hot sandwich overlooking the ruins of what was once one of the greatest monasteries in old England? Of course you do! The Abbey Inn at Byland serves up classic gastro-pub grub, soft serves and sweet treats on their exclusive Garden Menu. All you need to do is hope for a bit of sunshine for your visit!

The Star Inn The City, York

Another York edition to our list, The Star Inn The city has two outdoor dining areas to brag about, with their heated terrace offering superb views of the river running through the city. Aiming to bring a taste of the countryside to York, you can expect dishes such as Hay Baked Celeriac, Yorkshire Lamb Rump and Roast Yorkshire Wolds Chicken Breast, all made with locally sourced ingredients.

Bosuns, York

If you’re looking for some al fresco dining inspo, this idyllic restaurant just outside of York has to be on your list. Enjoy one of their classic, contemporary dishes such as Pork Tomahawk or Confit Poached Salmon from their a la carte menu, while taking in the picturesque views of the boatyard. You can even hire your own boat if you fancy a go after your meal on the terrace!

Grantley Hall, Ripon

You really are spoilt for choice with al fresco dining spots at Grantley Hall. The Orchard provides a tranquil indoor-to-outdoor experience, with seating available in their bell tent and on their Veuve Clicquot champagne terrace. Their Norton Courtyard offers traditional British classics to dine on and delicious drink options to enjoy with friends all day and night. And if that wasn’t enough, there’s even a Grade-II listed Japanese garden provided by EightyEight Bar and Restaurant with atmospheric water features to explore either pre or post-dining in the exquisite Asian-fusion restaurant.

Weetons Food Hall, Harrogate

If you live near or around Harrogate, you’ve probably heard of Weeton’s Food Hall. But did you know they also have a gorgeous outdoor dining area? Dine in some of Weeton’s favourite all-day brunch dishes while taking in the stunning views of Crimple Valley. Each dish has been designed by Weeton’s executive head chef, keeping their menus seasonal and tasty.

The Alice Hawthorn, Nun Monkton

Named as one of the Best Places to Stay by the Sunday Times, one of the best Yorkshire Pubs by Hardens and the Michelin Guide and Dining Pub of the Year by Yorkshire Life. These are just a few reasons why The Alice Hawthorn is well worthy of a visit however they also have a picturesque outdoor dining area, perfect for a little escape during a sunny afternoon. Hand-stretched sourdough pizzas and dishes from the grill are also on the menu every Saturday evening.

The Fairfax Arms, Helmsley

The Fairfax Arms in Gilling is easily in one of the prettiest villages just outside of York. Lying at the bottom of the hill that leads up to Giling Castle, this is yet another outdoor dining spot in Yorkshire with a great view. Their Orangery extension opens out to a beautiful beer garden, where you can enjoy some of your favourite summery tipples as well as some dishes from their summer menu.

The Coniston Hotel, Skipton

The Coniston Hotel are offering a brand new unique outdoor dining experience this summer. Get your friends and family together for lakeside dining in one of the Coniston’s bell tents, new for this Summer. Choose from an afternoon tea experience with the Coniston’s signature afternoon tea and a bottle of prosecco or their Pizza & Pop experience, perfect for a family day out.

The Feversham Arms, Helmsley

If you fancy dining poolside this Summer, head over to the Feversham Arms Hotel & Spa. Guests are invited to dine from their lunch or afternoon tea menus on their poolside terrace for a dining experience completely unique to North Yorkshire. From wraps and club sandwiches to sharing charcuterie boards and flat iron steaks, there’s so much available on the menu to dine al fresco.

The Blue Lion, East Witton

Surrounded by stunning views of the Yorkshire Dales, the Blue Lion in East Witton lies in the heart of Wensleydale. Providing the perfect respite after a day of exploring the Dales, take a seat on one of their outdoor benches and enjoy one of their seasonal dishes made with only the best Yorkshire produce. Sip on an ale from the bar and relax in the North Yorkshire sunshine.

The West Park Hotel, Harrogate

Hidden away from prying eyes, West Park Hotel’s Courtyard really is one of the best outdoor dining spots in Yorkshire. Every Friday and Saturday sees the team serving up some of the best seasonal dishes in the area, featuring Fish Platters, Wagyu Burgers and Celeriac Wellington. When the evenings start to cool down, heaters and blankets are provided for all their guests. Bank holidays are also something special in the Courtyard, with live saxophonists and DJs.

The View at The Coniston Hotel, Skipton

Just off The Coniston’s AA-Rosette awarded The View restaurant is The View’s terrace, providing one of the best (if not THE best) views of the Yorkshire Dales. You can see why they called their restaurant The View! Dine in the sunshine and enjoy lunch, afternoon tea or dinner on the terrace. And look out for Malham Cove on a clear day!

Outdoor Dining in East Yorkshire 

The Pipe and Glass Inn, South Dalton

Boasting two outdoor dining areas, the Pipe and Glass just outside of Beverley is certainly one of the best outdoor dining destinations in East Yorkshire. The Michelin-starred gastro-pub serves guests on both their patio area looking out to the chef’s garden and the informal picnic bench area at the front. Make the most of the rare British sunny summer days at the Pipe and Glass.

The Westwood, Beverley

This is the ultimate outdoor dining space. Covered AND heated, The Westwood in Beverley provides an outdoor dining terrace with comfort in mind. Enjoy a leisurely lunch or an intimate al fresco dinner with friends and family or for a lovely summery date night. Tuck into a delicious steak from a la plancha in the surroundings of an old Georgian courthouse.

Highfield House, Driffield

With a passion for seasonal and regional produce, the multi-award-winning Highfield House serves up British dining and had to be up there for an indulgent Al-Fresco experience.Both owners Andy and Lindsey head up the 1864 restaurant, which opened in July 2023, and proudly focus on foraging, gardening and prepping the food to the highest level. If ingredients aren’t supplied by their own gardens, they are sourced by some of the best farmers in the East Yorkshire region.

If you fancy just stopping for a drink, The Library Bar at Highfield House is open for walk-ins, priding themselves on their specialist cocktails and healthy wine list.

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