With the end of lockdown approaching, it’s nearly time for the moments we have all been dreaming of; enjoying scrumptious meals and refreshing drinks out in the open air and sharing good times and laughter with family and friends. But where to go? Here’s our guide to help you make the perfect choice and enjoy a luxurious outdoor experience in some of the finest outdoor beer gardens in the North East and Yorkshire.
Norton Bar and Courtyard, Grantley Hall, Ripon, North Yorkshire
If you’re craving a little luxe after lockdown then look no further than Grantley Hall.
The five-star venue in Ripon, North Yorkshire is set to reopen its Norton Bar and Courtyard, where you can enjoy exquisite views, bask in the sun and enjoy the soothing sounds and feel the subtle breeze of the nearby river Skell.
Having food cooked by someone else is something we’re all salivating over and the Norton Bar and Courtyard menu is certain to have the taste buds reveling in delight.
From smoked salmon and Whitby crab and roasted scallops for starters to summer vegetable tagliatelle, herb-fed chicken bowl and Grantley fish and chips for mains, there’s something to please every palate.
The Norton Bar and Courtyard will open form Monday, April 12th 7 days a week for outdoor dining. Food will be available every day from 12pm until 9pm, with the bar open until 11pm.
Grantley Hall, Ripon HG4 3ET. To book, visit www.grantleyhall.co.uk or call 01765 620070.
The Blackbird, Ponteland
In the heart of Ponteland village, The Blackbird’s outdoor Tipi area is the perfect place to enjoy a diverse menu packed with country pub favourites.
The little gem of a venue has been flat out during covid, with the team diversifying and offering its community everything from pop-up shops to at home restaurant boxes.
Now it’s time for them to do what they do best, serving up quality food and and more than 70 different gins, and craft ales.
North Rd, Ponteland, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE20 9UH. To book, visit www.theblackbirdponteland.co.uk or call 01661 822684.
The Factory Kitchen Cafe, The Biscuit Factory, Ouseburn, Newcastle
Art, food and skyline views of Ouseburn Valley – what’s not to love about The Biscuit Factory in Newcastle.
The spacious, chic rooftop café will be serving up a seasonal brunch menu curated by chef Michael Waugh – with inspiration from overseas and made with local produce.
16 Stoddart St, Shieldfield, Newcastle Upon Tyne, NE2 1AN. Visit www.thebiscuitfactory.com or call 0191 261 1103.
The Coach House at Middleton Lodge, Richmond, North Yorkshire
Set in 200 acres of rural North Yorkshire, The Coach house at Middleton Lodge offers up a scenic and tranquil experience in its new outdoor alfresco-style dining area.
Enjoy quality food in stunning surroundings, with views of the estate grounds and beautifully converted Georgian Mansion.
Tuck into top food in the new Tipi, or opt to eat out in the open air.
A new summer menu has been curated by chef Gareth Rayner, inspired by ingredients from the estate’s ever-evolving garden, and the venue’s mixologists and sommeliers have crafted a summer wine and garden cocktail menu to pair perfectly with the food.
Kneeton Ln, Middleton Tyas, Richmond, DL10 6NJ. To book, visit www.middletonlodge.co.uk or call 01325 37977.
The Star Inn at Harome, York
Consistently rated as one of the UK’s top eateries and holding a Michelin star – The Star Inn serves up locally-sourced seasonal ingredients.
Expect to find local game, North Sea fish, and fresh herbs from the kitchen garden – with beers and wines carefully selected to compliment – on chef-patron Andrew Pern’s menu.
Situated on the edge of the North Yorkshire Moors in the picturesque village of Harome, near Helmsley, this much-loved thatched inn also serves up delightful countryside views. Ideal for a much-needed drive ‘outside your local area’.
High Street Harome, York, YO62 5JE. To book, visit www.thestaratharome.co.uk or call 01439 770397.
Castle Howard, York
If you are looking for a sprinkle of grandeur, enter the grounds of the historical Castle Howard and head to the Courtyard Café.
From a full English and eggs benedict to sandwiches filled with honey glazed Yorkshire ham or Yorkshire Wensleydale with cheese and onion marmalade, provenance with positively on the menu at this place.
Pop the Prosecco and then perambulate around the grounds (there’s a change as it’s owned by English Heritage) and discover the delightful gardens, fountains and house.
Castle Howard, York, YO60 7DA. To book, visit www.castlehoward.co.uk or call 01653 648333.
The Northumberland Arms, Felton, Northumberland
Situated in the picturesque village of Felton, this foodie favourite will offer up delicious, locally- sourced dishes alongside tempting tipples in its new outdoor Tipi dining area.
From fish and chips to home-made pies and the perfect puddings on your Sunday lunch, The Northumberland Arms sources quality ingredients.
The Peth, West Thirston, Felton, Morpeth, NE65 9EE. To book, visit www.northumberlandarms-felton.co.uk or call 01670 787370.
Crab and Lobster, Thirsk
If you’re serious about food, a visit to the highly acclaimed Crab & Lobster Restaurant is a must. The ‘Crab’ offers a wide variety of gourmet dishes, from fresh local seafood to traditional English fare.
And it’s not just the food at the at Crab that will blow your mind, the gardens and terrace will too!
Dishforth Road, Asenby, Thirsk, North Yorkshire, YO7 3QL. To book, visit www.crabandlobster.co.uk or call 01845 577286.
ABOVE, The Vermont Hotel, Newcastle
While we’ve all be locked down for the last year, the owners of The Vermont Hotel, in Newcastle have been working on something magical.
ABOVE is the new rooftop bar and restaurant with 360-degree views of the city. It has been designed with an adaptable layout and as well as hungry pleasure seekers, it will cater for weddings and events – for those looking for somewhere that will dazzle.
Castle Garth, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 1RQ. To find out more, visit www.vermont-hotel.com or call 0191 233 1010.
The Talbot Inn, Malton, North Yorkshire
This 17th-Century venue has so much to offer. With its stunning gardens and carefully crafted seasonal menus, it showcases the very best of Yorkshire and beyond.
Using only the finest, locally-sourced ingredients, love and passion are amongst this tasty menu with a selection of dishes that pair perfectly with the extensive wine list.
Yorkersgate, Malton, YO7 7AJ. To book visit www.talbotmalton.co.uk or call 01653 639096.
The Fox Hole Pub & Kitchen, Piercebridge
Eat, drink and relax with a selection of locally brewed, hand-pulled beers, organic wines, and a large section of spirits plus an extensive gin selection.
Enjoy dishes inspired by locally-sourced, seasonal, fresh ingredients in the traditional-style pub garden set in the Romanian village of Piercebridge.
Piercebridge, Darlington, DL2 3SJ. To book, visit the-foxhole.co.uk or call 01325 374286
