Going Al Fresco: The best hotels for outdoor dining in the UK

The simple question, "Shall we sit outside?" becomes an invitation to indulge in fresh seafood and delicate sharers, paired with aperitifs and sparkling wine, amidst the chatter and laughter of good friends. Whether it's a casual lunch in the garden, an elaborate dinner by the sea, or a sumptuous afternoon tea on a grand estate, the experience of eating outdoors elevates any meal into a memorable event.

The charm of al fresco dining lies in its ability to blend the culinary with the natural, making every meal a delight, and we’ve got just the selection of the UK’s best outdoor restaurants and terraces. Picture this: golden hour is approaching, the sky is painted in hues of orange and pink, and the table is set with crisp linens and elegant place settings. Candles flicker softly, and the air is filled with the aromas of freshly prepared dishes. This is the time to savour exquisite food, engage in lively conversation, and lose oneself in some of the best UK hotels with outdoor dining. From bustling city rooftops with panoramic views to tranquil countryside retreats enveloped in greenery, the options for al fresco dining are as diverse as they are delicious.

Here are our picks of the best hotels for al fresco dining in the UK this summer.

One of the quintessential pleasures of summer is al fresco entertainment, and at The Atlantic in Jersey, this experience reaches new heights as one of the best hotels for al fresco dining in the UK. Here, Executive Chef Will Holland’s culinary masterpieces are paired with the island's breathtaking ocean views, and The Terrace becomes a haven for light lunches, indulgent afternoon teas, and special al fresco events throughout the summer season. Imagine a leisurely Sunday afternoon enjoying a three-course barbecue lunch, all while the ocean waves create an incomparable ambience. Mark your diaries for Monday, 26th August, when live jazz adds a sultry vibe to an exclusive Summer Barbecue event.

For a dose of laid-back summer nights in Bath, the Royal Crescent Hotel adds a touch of sophistication with Friday DJ evenings, running on 2nd of August and 6th of September, where chilled tunes from Select Sounds blend perfectly with seasonal cocktails and delectable sharing plates on the terrace. Heated parasols ensure comfort as the evening cools, and indoor options are available if the weather turns.

The unpredictability of an English summer often calls for adaptable dining experiences that bring the outdoors in, and who says you can’t enjoy al fresco dining in the UK even when the weather turns? Glenapp Castle in Ayrshire offers just such a setting nestled within its magnificent walled gardens, where the Azalea Brasserie is housed in a restored Victorian glasshouse. This seamless transition of indoors and outdoors showcases the beauty of natural surroundings during daylight hours, transforming into a cosy, magical atmosphere by night. The dining experience here is truly memorable, rain or shine.

Similarly, Farlam Hall’s Bistro Enkel in Cumbria provides a casual yet refined setting with ceiling-height windows that flood the space with natural light and offer serene views of the gardens and lake. The classic and flavourful dishes made with the freshest local ingredients enhance the delightful connection to the outdoors, even when sheltered from the elements.