There are only two great novelties to British summertime: the beach and the beer garden. And not often do the two meet. But what if we told you that drinking cocktails and cold beers by the calming sea weren’t just reserved for the Mediterranean? And could you actually do just that right here in Yorkshire, with top views included? Well, you’d probably believe me, because we’re pretty blooming good at everything, now, aren’t we? From stunning terraces sitting just metres above the North Sea, to classic beer gardens soaking up the fresh salty air, here’s our guide to the best beer gardens on the Yorkshire coast.
When the warmer months arrive, as we’ve had a taste of over the past few days, those days in the pub seem ever closer. And, who doesn’t love one with a particularly nice outdoor space to enjoy a few ales, cocktails or a wine or two? We’ve hunted down some of the best pubs on the coast that offer more than just a few wooden benches.
Unmatched views out to the North Sea, stunning cliff views and sun traps that are unmatched elsewhere are what we are looking forward to. And see, we offer some of our favourites to try this summer.
So, what are the best beer gardens on the Yorkshire Coast?
1. Cod & Lobster, Staithes
You’ve probably seen Cod & Lobster before, and if it wasn’t in real life, it was definitely on Instagram. You couldn’t possibly get any closer to the sea than you are in this quaint pub’s beer garden – with the tide lapping in literal metres away from the outdoor seating area.
At the pub, expect plenty of seafood (when on the coast, after all), parmo, and steak if you’re feeling peckish, alongside beers, your typical spirits, mixers, wine and more. Cod & Lobster, 61 High St, Staithes, Saltburn-by-the-Sea, TS13 5BH.
Why we love The Cod & Lobster beer garden:
- On the right day, sitting outside the Cod & Lobster is Yorkshire’s answer to being sat on the Amalfi Coast.
- It offers up a great menu, especially the fish & chips, which we couldn’t get enough of.
- You’re right next to the beach, so very family-friendly.
2. Whitby Brewery
You couldn’t get more perfect than the location of Whitby Brewery. Situated right next door to the historic Whitby Abbey, visitors get to take in an iconic British landmark in all of its glory at this beer garden, while also not being far from the rest of the town centre attractions.
Specialising in locally crafted beers made right next door to Dracula’s old haunt, guests can sup on real Yorkshire ales and yummy pizzas served with a side of live music at their converted barn brewery. Whitby Brewery, East Cliff, Whitby, YO22 4JR.
Why we love Whitby Brewery beer garden:
- It has the most unique views of any of the coastal beer gardens, with Whitby Abbey across the road.
- They have their own ales brewed on site.
- Live music nights and their own pizza oven slinging out tasty slices.
3. The Marine Pub, Hornsea
Overlooking the sea in Hornsea, The Marine Hotel has a pretty unbeatable beer garden, overlooking the beach, so guests can watch the tide roll in. While the pub is fresh and modern on the inside (with very subtle nods to the coast through its use of colour), outside, guests can expect a fairly simple approach to the beer garden, with plenty of seating helping to put the focus on the view. Expect plenty of beers on tap, as well as your typical pub fare. The Marine Hotel, Marine Dr, Hornsea, HU18 1NJ.
Why we love The Marine Pub beer garden:
- It offers stunning sea views as the pub is located directly along the seafront. The perfect spot for soaking up the sun with a few pints.
- It’s family-friendly, with dogs welcome as well, so the whole family can visit.
- It’s a popular, busy spot with a lively atmosphere.
4. The Stables, Whitby
The Stables might not be right on the coastal edge, but it’s ideally located for those looking for a stop-off when leaving (or arriving in) Whitby. Just on the outskirts of the popular seaside destination, the lovely restaurant boasts stunning features that nod to the building’s heritage as a stable, but best of all, it’s home to a tranquil beer garden that’s surrounded by beauty.
Seating is available right next to the venue’s very own pond, with sweeping grass and moorland views surrounding it. And while the sea is a few miles away, the pub still benefits from that fresh, Whitby air – making for the perfect spot to enjoy a pint and a spot of grub. For the wine lovers among us, the venue is home to its own well-stocked cellar, with plenty of choices to sift through during your visit. The Stables, Guisborough Rd, Whitby, YO21 1TL.
Why we love The Stables beer garden:
- It’s a beautiful outdoor space with panoramic views across the countryside as well as coastal scenery.
- It’s dog-friendly and is set in a former 17th-century farmhouse offering a rustic atmosphere far away from the seaside town to offer some peace.
- It offers an unmatched menu including hearty, traditional meals and daily specials from Dine at The Stables.
5. The Downe Arms, Scarborough
On the edge of the North York Moors and just a short drive from Scarborough, The Downe Arms is a cosy country inn with pretty impressive views from its beer garden. Take a seat on one of many inviting picnic benches before looking out over the stunning Yorkshire countryside with a tipple of your choice.
The views are particularly stunning on a warm summer’s day, and guests can also take advantage of an extensive menu that varies from breakfast to lunch, to dinner, to Sunday lunch. The Downe Arms, Main Rd, Wykeham, Scarborough, YO13 9QB.
Why we love The Downe Arms beer garden:
- Another beautiful outdoor space, if there is one spot that you’ll just want to sit for hours, it’s here on the edge of the North York Moors.
- It’s a Grade II listed former coaching inn, and that comes with charm, history, and atmosphere.
- Good food, great beer and did we mention the view?
6. The Ship Inn, Sewerby
Nautical-themed with stunning sea views, The Ship Inn can be found in lovely Sewerby, just outside of Bridlington. The beer garden is pretty popular on summer days – and for good reason, too, thanks to its gorgeous sea views and fresh coastal air.
It’s the kind of place you’ll wanna park up for the day, with gorgeous interiors, ample garden seating, traditional pies, fish and chips, and a great selection of draught beers, gins and more on offer. The Ship Inn, Cliff Rd, Sewerby, Bridlington, YO15 1EW.
Why we love The Ship Inn beer garden:
- Unmatched views out to sea for one with the cliff edge just a few steps away.
- It’s so family-friendly, including the pooch and has a fantastic play area for the kids.
- It has an outdoor bar, wood-fired pizza and a ‘lobster shack’, you could almost spend all day there.
7. The Victoria Hotel, Robin Hood’s Bay
Making up part of the lovely Robin Hood Bay’s hospitality offering, The Victoria Hotel has a little something special: a view that can’t be found anywhere else.
Overlooking the iconic bay, the stunning garden also doubles up as the perfect wedding venue – allowing guests to say ‘I do’ in front of the most idyllic backdrop. On non-wedding days, guests can simply soak up the sun while looking out to sea, with fresh Whitby fish, refreshing drinks, and so much more on offer. The Victoria Hotel, Station Rd, Robin Hood’s Bay, Whitby, YO22 4RL.
Why we love The Victoria beer garden:
- Unmatched views over the bay at Robin Hood’s Bay.
- It has a fantastic new bar, so you can enjoy a cheeky cocktail in the sun.
- Perfect reward for taking on the hill out of the quaint fishing village.
8. The Old Scalby Mills, Scarborough
Perfectly positioned so it overlooks Scarborough’s North Bay, The Old Scalby Mills is home to a rustic beer garden, situated underneath a welcoming pergola to keep you shaded from the hot summer sun.
There, guests can take in the coastal sights and enjoy traditional pub fare, while only being a short stroll away from the quieter, more peaceful side of the popular seaside resort and the tranquil Peasholm Park. The Old Scalby Mills, Scalby Mills Rd, Scarborough, YO12 6RP.
Why we love The Old Scalby Mills beer garden:
- It’s right on the edge of the sea and offers views over toward the bay and Scarborough Castle.
- It is further out of the way and is described as a cosy but lively spot, ideal for relaxing after a walk along the promenade.
9. Abbey Wharf, Whitby
Abbey Wharf is a beach-style bar sitting right on the waterfront – with beautiful views of the River Esk on its way out to sea. Finished off with a glass to avoid spoiling the stunning view, the bar’s outdoor terrace is a real sun-trap in the summer, serving steak, seafood aplenty and tasty cocktails to knock back while enjoying the harbour sights. It’s almost like being on holiday, except with far less Estrella and far more cask brews behind the bar. Abbey Wharf, Market Place, Whitby, YO22 4DD.
Why we love Abbey Wharf beer garden:
- It overlooks the stunning coastal town of Whitby, great for watching the ships and world go by.
- The pub offers great fish & chips, so you can enjoy a bit of lunch with a view.
- It’s a sun trap, so you can do some tanning.
Read more: This Yorkshire Coastal Town Is Britain’s Oldest Seaside Resort
