After a pretty dreadful bought of rain, it’s safe to say we’re ready to ditch the wellies for the sandals and soak up the sun while it lasts. Which, knowing our luck, probably won’t be for too long. While most are probably dashing to the beer gardens to get a prime spot, we’ve got our hearts set on the Mediterranian feeling that comes with a bit of al fresco dining – but instead of views of the Amalfi coast, it’s views of the stunning Yorkshire countryside we’re after. Sold you on that idea? Here’s our guide to the most luxurious places for al fresco dining in Yorkshire.
1. Grantley Hall, Ripon
If you’re familiar with Yorkshire already, you’ve probably heard of Grantley Hall: quite possibly Yorkshire’s most majestic venue of all.
Set on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales, the venue is home to not one, but two beautiful outdoor terraces, where guests can enjoy delicious, fine cuisine created by Grantley Hall’s exceptional chefs.
If that wasn’t enough already, the venue is also home to its very own Michelin Starred restaurant – Shaun Rankin at Grantley Hall – which was recently awarded the honour in this year’s Michelin Star awards. Grantley Hall, Ripon, HG4 3ET.
2. Beck Hall, Malham
We’ve made no secret of the fact that Beck Hall is one of our favourite places in the entirety of Yorkshire. Not only is it 100% dog-friendly, but it’s also super special.
Sitting next to a tranquil stream that meanders down from the nearby Malham Cove, guests can dine outside while soaking up the sunshine, with a stunning menu of Yorkshire tapas or classic British dishes.
The owners have a keen eye for beautiful interiors – something that can be found right through the venue, from the garden, to the restaurant and right through to the cosy rooms. Beck Hall, Cove Rd, Malham, BD23 4DJ.
3. The Carpenters Arms, Felixkirk
A quaint, country pub on the edge of the North York Moors, The Carpenter’s Arms is a little known Yorkshire gem, with a stunning beer garden and dining terrace for guests to enjoy.
Encapsulating the best of rural Yorkshire, guests can enjoy beautifully presented dishes out in the sunshine, with plenty of gorgeous field-to-fork plates to try out. Basically, if its not local, you won’t find it on your plate here – which is all part of the attraction. The Carpenter’s Arms, Felixkirk, Thirsk, YO7 2DP.
4. Devonshire Arms, Bolton Abbey
A fancy retreat close by to the iconic Bolton Abbey, The Devonshire Arms is the perfect place for a special meal in the great outdoors, thanks to the sights for miles of the Yorkshire Dales.
A true escape to the country, guests can dine on the champagne and seafood terrace, where the hotel and restaurant serves mouth-watering light bites with summery tipples. Think freshly caught seafood, accompanied by refreshing wines and champagne. The Devonshire Arms, Bolton Bridge, Skipton, BD23 6AJ.
5. Yorebridge House, Leyburn
Tucked away in a quiet corner of the Dales, Yorebridge House offers a tranquil garden experience, where guests can wind down in the sun in a pretty, private corner of the Yorkshire Dales countryside.
Boasting three AA Rosettes, guests can expect some pretty special grub when dining here, with each dish looking like a piece of art (this is what they mean when they say it ‘looks too good to eat’). In addition to an airy restaurant, the House is also home to a stunning lawn, which comprises of a number of tables where guests can relax in the great outdoors. Yorebridge House, Bainbridge, Leyburn, DL8 3EE.
6. Chophaus, Leeds
If it’s steak that tickles your fancy, Chophaus is the perfect, intimate destination, located right on the edge of the peaceful Roundhay Park.
A modern retreat set back into the trees, Chophaus boasts a large outdoor terrace, which overlooks the peaceful surroundings of the park and is amplified by twinkling lights by night. It’s very sophisticated indeed! Chophaus, Louis House, Princes Ave, Roundhay, Oakwood, Leeds, LS8 2FA.
7. The Star Inn The City, York
From Chef Andrew Pern – who’s also behind The Star Inn at Harome – The Star Inn The City overlooks both Lendal Bridge and the winding River Ouse, set back just a stone’s throw away from the hustle and bustle of the historic city of York.
Those dining on the terrace not only get to enjoy the waterside views, but delicious food from the Michelin Star chef, paying homage to the nearby North York Moors and North Yorkshire countryside. The Star Inn The City, Lendal Engine House, Museum St, York, YO1 7DR.
8. The Coniston, Skipton
Another true Yorkshire Dales gem, The Coniston offers a relaxing experience all round, from their cosy rooms, to the tranquil spa, to the beautiful outdoor terrace.
Overlooking the beautiful Yorkshire Dales, guests can expect lakeside views served alongside posh afternoon tea and laidback dishes such as steak, duck breast, venison and more. The Coniston, Coniston Cold, Skipton, BD23 4EA.
9. Shibden Mill Inn, Halifax
Once owned by Anne Lister’s lover, Ann Walker, The Shibden Mill Inn – which was formerly a spinning mill – is now a stunning place to eat, not far from the famous Shibden Estate.
Inside, the pub remains traditional, nodding to its heritage, while outside, the beautiful patio is filled with greenery and bright blooms, providing a summery place to dine on award-winning grub, beautifully presented using the very best Yokshire produce. The Shibden Mill Inn, Shibden Mill Fold, Halifax, HX3 7UL.
10. Dakota, Leeds
One of Leeds’ most luxurious hotels and restaurants, Dakota is home to a cosy street-side terrace, which overlooks the busy Greek Street. Decked out with lavish decor, guests can kick back with a cocktail and enjoy delicious grub from their bar menu. Dakota, 8 Russell St, Leeds, LS1 5RN.
11. Rudding Park, Harrogate
Rudding Park, found near Harrogate, is one of Yorkshire’s most luxurious destinations – not only for its spa, but for the beautiful food, too.
Home to a South-facing terrace outside of their Clocktower restaurant, guests can dine on the beautifully-kept lawn, which is dotted with stunning colours from the garden of florals.
There, guests can expect delicious brasserie dishes, from succulent steaks and locally sourced lamb, to Italian dishes such as arancini, crayfish tagliatelle and more. Rudding Park, Rudding Ln, Follifoot, Harrogate, HG3 1JH.
12. Ox Pasture Hall, Scarborough
When we think of Scarborough, we typically think of fish and chips, arcade games and days out on the seafront with family – but Ox Pasture Hall will have you thinking about the seaside town in a whole new way.
Set on the outskirts of the town just a shoe into the North York Moors, Ox Pasture Hall is a beautifully country house surrounded by lush countryside, alongside a gorgeous Mediterranian-looking courtyard that’ll surely have guests feeling like they’ve accidentally ended up abroad.
In the courtyard, guests can dine on white-clothed tables with wine and gourmet grub, all created using the freshest ingredients for maximum flavour. Ox Pasture Hall, Lady Edith’s Dr, Scarborough, YO12 5TD.
Read more: 15 Of The Best Beer Gardens In York To Enjoy
