Seize the summer moment and dine in the open air surrounded by vistas that’ll feed mind, body and soul with our pick of alfresco dining experiences in the South West
River Exe Café, Devon
An alfresco experience like no other on the tranquil waters of the River Exe, this floating gastro shed combines breathtaking views with locally sourced food and drink.
Reached only by water taxi, boat, kayak or paddleboard, the River Exe Café enjoys stunning scenery in every direction. Diners can indulge in vibrant flavours in seafood classics such as fresh oysters, prawns with saffron garlic aioli and whole Brixham crab while taking in the gentle breeze, calm waters and sunny rays.
Humans are not alone in being able to enjoy this delightful setting from April to the end of September either, as this custom-built barge is also happy to welcome canine companions.
Corkage, Bath
For chilled alfresco vibes with a touch of class, this neighbourhood wine bistro in Bath is a must-visit.
The courtyard at Corkage has recently been given a glow-up, further enticing locals and tourists to its outdoor space. With its wooden banquette seating hugging the perimeter of the back wall, mismatched parasols and handsome Bath stone buildings as a backdrop beyond the garden plants, the verdant setting couldn’t be more fitting for a glass of chilled rosé, which Corkage does particularly well – as the name suggests.
A let’s-order-everything menu focusing on seasonal ingredients and creative flavour combos, handpicked curation of wines and convivial atmosphere makes Corkage a great place to enjoy perfect pairings and conversation.
WestBeach, Dorset
When chef Andy Price was a little boy he used to sell melons to tourists along Bournemouth’s promenade. Today he owns one of the seafront’s most treasured spots, WestBeach.
Metres – more like centimetres – from the beach, this easygoing glass-fronted restaurant has the ultimate views of sun, sea and sky. Best of all, the blissful view can be enjoyed at any time of day as WestBeach is open from dawn to dusk.
Fresh, local seafood takes the starring role in dishes crafted by Andy and his brigade in the open-plan kitchen, and if decadence is on the cards then breakfast cocktails are aplenty, from Breakfast Martinis to Mimosas.
Food Lifestyle tip: download the WestBeach app to redeem a free pud.
Hooked on the Rocks, Cornwall
Nestled in the not-so-high cliff above Swanpool beach, this relaxed beachfront diner is renowned for championing local and sustainable produce.
Bringing the fun to alfresco, Hooked on the Rocks has a gorgeous outdoor setting with posh picnic benches, sea-inspired turquoise tones for the parasols and paintwork, as well as festooned lighting to make the evening beach views even more enchanting – especially during the cafe’s sundowner seafood suppers.
The menu can change daily depending on what the local fishermen return with, while the wine list is almost entirely populated with bottles from local family-run wineries, lending an ultra local vibe to the experience.
The Jetty, Christchurch, Dorset
For a spot of alfresco grandeur look no further than The Jetty, a sleek restaurant with slick cooking in Christchurch’s Harbour Hotel.
Beyond its glass box structure, The Jetty’s terrace offers the kind of view that gets people waxing lyrical over its peaceful, wistful aura. Combined with impressive food from celebrated chef Alex Aitken and team, statement crockery and white tablecloths, it makes for a special spot for alfresco dining.
A range of menus are available, from tasting menus to à la carte and set lunch to vegan. There’s also a catch of the day menu, naturally.
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