The Secret Gardens of Bath

Terrace area of Yak Yeti Yak in Bath — Yak Yeti Yak: Terrace

Small and intimate spaces for alfresco eating and drinking are some of Bath`s best kept secrets. They are also often the most beautiful and slightly off the beaten track or hidden from sight. In two blogs we want to share our top 15 alfresco eating and drinking spots in Bath city centre. If you are seeking large and active spaces, read our Beer Gardens of Bath blog post.

Beer garden at White Hart in Bath — White Hart: Beer garden

Pubs with Character

White Hart Inn in Wydcombe is just over the river from the train station. The courtyard to the rear of the pub has a secret garden feel, with lots of smaller spaces to call your own and settle into. The drinks and food are consistently good, so a great place for a family get-together or a romantic meal. For a larger beer garden with a similar character, head to The Hop Pole on the Lower Bristol Road. The seemingly small pub has a large beer garden with lush planting and sheltered seating areas. A Real Ale treat with quality food to match.

River Views

For great Tapas and Cocktails , head to Opa on North Parade. The Greek restaurant and bar has a lower level waterside terrace alongside the River Avon. It is a great place for summer and winter, with a sunny seating area by the river and sheltered seating area beneath the bridge with views into Parade Gardens .

Riverside terrace at Opa in Bath — Opa: Riverside terrace

Small yet Perfectly Formed

A more intimate experience can be found at Tasting Room on Green Street. The first floor brassiere style Café has a charming upper level courtyard, big enough for 3 tables of 4 (perhaps more with a squeeze). The tiny size provides a relaxed atmosphere.

Walled Garden

Nestled by Royal Victoria Park and the Bath Approach Golf Course , Marlborough Tavern The Malborbough Tavern is one of our favourite summer beer gardens. The seating areas are surrounded by big stone walls and fragrant plants, which combined with the immaculate food and drink makes the pub a local favourite.

Peace and Quiet

If you fancy a walk the beer garden at The Richmond Arms in Lansdown is one of the quietest places to enjoy an Alfresco drink or meal. The small beer garden to the front of the pub is a sun trap, the perfect place to catch up with friends or a solitary moment reading the papers. The pub is located on a narrow residential street, so there is no traffic noise and limited passers-by to disturb your peace.

A Little Taste of Spain

A summer favourite is sitting on the terrace at Pintxo , drinking sherry and nibbling on delicious treats. The terrace is tucked away from the noise and activity of Queen Square . The small and compact space creates a little bit of Spain to relax and socialise in.