Beer Gardens of Bath

A lazy summer afternoon sitting outside with friends and family can be pure bliss. Happy times with fresh air and the warm sun on your skin, surrounded by the sounds of talking and laughter. Whether drinking coffee, having a meal or a social drink, Bath has a variety of beer gardens and dining terraces to choose from. In two blogs we want to share our top 15 alfresco eating and drinking spots.

This blog is all about scale, big beer gardens that are heaving in the summer months. Super social spaces, where you get drawn into the happy and relaxed vibe of summer. If you are seeking out more intimate or quiet spaces, read our The Secret Gardens of Bath .

Beer by the Weir

The Boater has possibly the largest public beer garden in Bath city centre. The split level space provides a higher level heated terrace and a lower level bench area shaded by trees. With an outdoor bar and barbecue the garden has a fantastic buzz during summer and is heaving on home rugby days.

Theatre Moments

Garrick’s Head sits between the Theatre Royal and the Egg Theatre, which is just around the corner from the Ustinov Theatre. The on street seating areas are a fantastic place to soak up city life, people watch and perhaps spot a celebrity of two. The food and drink is also great, so the perfect social spot.

Skyline Views

The roof terrace at Hall & Woodhouse is a great location for drinks with friends. The views out over the rooftops of Bath across to the surrounding hills provide a stunning backdrop to any occasion.

Party Vibe

In the city centre on George Street you’ll find Sub 13 , a hidden gem cellar bar with a fantastic terrace to the rear. You’ll need to go down the steps into the bar, through to the back and up the steps onto the terrace. Just like the Adventure Café on the same street, the large terrace is a suntrap yet relatively sheltered from the wind and traffic sounds. Both are great for Prosecco moments or summer Pimms.

Urban Niche

The Cork has a large beer garden alongside St James Street, extending out from their basement bar. The pub is next to Bath City College and hosts events year round, so whether you are inside or outside there is always a lively atmosphere. They also serve up one of the best burgers in Bath , so worth a cheeky visit.

Hidden Courtyard

Crystal Palace has a great courtyard garden squeezed between the surrounding buildings. Their awnings enable you to sit outside all year round, so come rain or shine you can find sun, shelter or warmth.

Rainy Day

We love sitting outside, so on a grey day we head to the Green Park Brasserie which has two sheltered outdoor terraces. The area to the front looks out over the hustle and bustle of people and cars; great for a lazy afternoon. The rear terrace sits alongside the market area within the historic station, a unique space in Bath which is easier to appreciate when you are relaxed eating and drinking; ideal for after shopping.