From riverside gastropubs and city bars to real ale pubs, Norwich boasts some great spots for al fresco drinking - we pick the best places to sip a pint in the sun.
58 St Benedicts Street
The St Benedicts Street pub has a reputation for the best beer garden in the city and a buzzing atmosphere when the sun shines. The large outdoor area has an interesting layout with seating amongst the trees creating booths to sit in, plus additional tables flanked by parasols. Should the weather turn chilly, there are outdoor heaters to ensure that the al fresco drinking can continue in comfort.
30-34 Unthank Road
A destination for gin lovers, there’s over 60 of the juniper-infused tipples to choose from, plus locally sourced ales, craft beers and an eclectic wine list. Picnic tables cover the large lawn and nest chairs hang from the trees in the walled garden at The Georgian Townhouse. In the summer months, expect to find flame grilled and spit-roasted meat on offer, courtesy of the big outdoor barbecue
42-58 St Georges Street
The riverside courtyard area at the arty Playhouse Bar is a well known student haunt. With its multi-coloured picnic tables and chilled out atmosphere it is a great spot to sip a pint until the sun goes down. The bar hosts regular summer barbecues and pop-up food events, in addition to live music. Once inside, make sure you check out the miniature city hanging from the ceiling.
1 Leicester Street
The lively Golden Triangle pub boasts a large beer garden that becomes a sun trap on a cloudless day - with picnic tables and plenty of space for energetic kids to run off some steam. In addition to a well stocked bar, there is an enticing food menu. Don’t miss the halloumi burger with chargrilled pepper, courgette and fresh pesto.
1 Pembroke Road
Probably the best known beer garden in the Golden Triangle, The Garden House has a large outdoor area with plenty of picnic benches and bistro tables. With six real ales on the bar and a tasty menu including home-smoked meat and top-notch burgers, it’s easy to end up staying all day. Try the Bunny Chow burger, made with homemade falafel and sweet chilli sauce in a brioche bun.
46 Yarmouth Road
If you want to catch some rays, feed the ducks and enjoy a chilled glass of wine by the River Yare, then The Rushcutters on Yarmouth Road is the place to go. The family friendly 16th century pub restaurant is a picturesque spot for al-fresco dining – watch the boats go past and tuck into a snack from the extensive menu.
6 St Martins Palace Plain
More of a terrace than a beer garden, the tables and chairs clustered at the front of this traditional pub by the Magistrates Court are ideal for making the most of the sunshine with a quick pint.
98-100 Lawson Road
The north Norwich pub has a friendly, unpretentious atmosphere and a wide selection of real ales with up to 35 different cask and keg beers on offer. The grassy outdoor area has picnic tables and lots of space to catch some rays and watch the world go by.
33 Newmarket Road
The pretty Georgian-style pub boasts a large tree-lined beer garden with a children’s play area and climbing frame. Ideal for a relaxed family get-together, there are tables under cover, an outdoor barbecue and a bustling, friendly atmosphere.
Lamb Yard, Orford Place
If you need a break from shopping, the city centre location of Henry’s – as it is also known – is the perfect place to down shopping bags and recuperate with a gin and tonic in the sun. Plus, the covered seating area complete with heaters, means a sudden change in weather doesn’t have to spoil the outdoor drinking.
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