We have all heard the announcements, that on the 12th April, there is a good chance that outdoor hospitality can return. With fingers tightly crossed that everything goes to plan over the next few months, we can look forward to alfresco settings becoming a staple for the summer. England offers phenomenal outdoor bars and with the latest route out of lockdown, this bids an opportunity to try out some of the most interesting, quirky and chic open-air bars that the country has to offer. Of course, we may have to contend with the unpredictable weather, but with a little bit of luck, there is a chance to experience brilliant mixology in the balmy spring climes. We have put together a list of the outdoor and rooftop bars around England that should be on everyone’s list for this summer.
Sky Lounge-Leeds
The trendy city of Leeds has become a hub of contemporary dining and drinking with a multitude of experimental, stylish and avant-garde options. Sky Lounge in Leeds is renowned for its jaw dropping views across the Leeds skyline as well as the spectacular panorama of Yorkshire and this is the perfect complement to the array of expertly crafted drinks. With a range of dining options, Sky Lounge is a premier attraction for any time of the day and at the weekend the roof top bar transforms into a vivacious party spot.
The Maytime Inn-Oxfordshire
There is something very quintessentially English about The Maytime Inn and the quaint Oxfordshire establishment is an idyllic summer spot for a tipple. With a large outdoor terrace, surrounded by well-kept gardens and unrivalled views over the Oxfordshire countryside, The Maytime Inn is a must-visit. On Sunday, there is live jazz providing an ideal ambience to the already serene setting. Oh, and they have a very large gin bar, over 100 options in fact!
Jin Bo Law Skybar-London
Without doubt, Jin Bo Law Skybar is one of the premier terraces to visit in London. With views over some of London’s premier attractions such as the Shard, the views are matched by the brilliant selection of cocktails. With a large open plan bar and a stylish outdoor deck area, it is a great place to relax and enjoy some of London’s top mixology.
Mount Haven-Cornwall
This list would not be complete without a venue near the coast and Mount Haven, as part of the Mount Haven boutique hotel is the place to visit. Overlooking the spectacular St Michaels Mount, the panorama that the outdoor bar offers is unrivalled. With a smaller cocktail menu, than some of the previous options, Mount Haven has an appeal that goes beyond that of the drink selection.
Goodness Gracious Roof Garden-Liverpool
Liverpool has become a centre of cutting-edge hospitality options and the rebranding of the city has led to an excess of fantastic bars. Goodness Gracious Roof Garden is one of the best roof top bars in the city and with vivid floral decoration greeting you on arrival, the interiors set the scene of the atmosphere. The bar is a transformation from the busy streets below and it is the perfect place to experience both brilliant hospitality alongside relaxed aesthetics, which make it a perfect spot for dates or just to meet with friends and family.