Visit Hamphire
Catergories: Food and Drink

The summer months and the warmer weather have arrived (hurrah!), perfect for some alfresco dining! Enjoy Hampshire's delicious food and drink in some of the best places to eat outdoors, whilst soaking up the sunshine.

We have put together the guide below to some of the top places in Hampshire you can sit outdoors, relax, and enjoy a bite to eat or a cooling drink. From great pub gardens, fine dining at country house hotels, gin and tonics by the sea to vibrant city centre outdoor café culture, Hampshire is a foodies' dream. 

Gunwharf Quays, Portsmouth

Gunwharf

Portsmouth's Gunwharf Quays has over 30 restaurants, bars and coffee shops, to choose from in its stunning waterfront location including Loch Fyne, the Cosy Club,  Pull up a chair on one of the waterside dining terraces and take in the views of the boats going by underneath the Spinnaker Tower. 

Find out more about Gunwharf Quays

The Jetty at Southampton Harbour Hotel, Southampton

The Outdoor Space at the Jetty Restaurant in Southampton

Set on the ground-floor of the Southampton Harbour Hotel at Ocean Village Marina, The Jetty specialises in fresh seafood, caught daily by local fisherman, served with locally grown, seasonal ingredients from the New Forest. Expect nothing less than exceptional food and wine from renowned local chef Alex Aitken. The hotel's design is inspired by a sleek super-yacht, the alfresco dining terrace is at the bow; with relaxed seating and private pods, perfect for couples to lie back and sip Sancerre overlooking the water.

Find out more about The Jetty

HarBar on 6th at Southampton Harbour Hotel, Southampton 

HarBar on 6th at Southampton Harbour Hotel

A spectacular rooftop destination bar, kitchen, and terrace, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the Solent, and a wraparound terrace with outdoor fire pits, heaters, and a wood-fired pizza oven. With panoramic views across the Solent, the terrace offers the best alfresco dining spot in Southampton. This atmospheric, all-day dining affair serves up great food all day, starting with breakfast, then easing through into lunch, an ever-popular afternoon tea (3pm-5pm), then dinner and late-night bites.The perfect spot to enjoy a sunset Aperol Spritz, the bar serves up a great selection of wines, beers, local gins and exclusive HarBAR cocktails.

Find out more about HarBar on 6th

The Greyhound on The Test, Stockbridge

The Greyhound on The Test's outdoor dining space

WILDS Kitchen at the Greyhound on The Test is a gorgeous outside dining area right next to the sparkling River Test. A variety of different nights take place throughout the summer, from wood-fired pizzas to gourmet burgers, so there is always something exciting to tempt your tastebuds. 

Find out more about The Greyhound on The Test

The Mayfly, Chilbolton near Stockbridge

The Mayfly outdoor seating in the Test Valley

The Mayfly picnic tables are nestled between the River Test and one of its many tributaries creating the perfect picture from every angle. The pub offers full table service outdoors and from the moment you cross the bridge from the car park your host will be there to guide you to a table where your server will look after you. The Mayfly have some staple dishes on their menu like the Fuller's Fronteir Battered Fish and Chips or the Chalcroft Farn Beef Burger complimented by the chef's signature dishes. The famous Test Way leads to the pub and it is just across the road from the West Down Nature Reserve which makes it the perfect stop for a pint after a long walk or bike ride.

Find out more about The Mayfly

The Watership Down Inn, near Whitchurch

The Watership Down Inn Exterior

The Watership Down Inn nestles at the foot of the North Wessex Downs, overlooking the headwaters of the Test Valley. The renowned Watership Down lies to the north of the Inn. Ideally situated in Freefolk Priors just outside Whitchurch it is within easy reach of Basingstoke, Andover, Newbury and Winchester.  The Watership Down Inn has a large garden, which houses a newly erected marquee for all-weather dining, there is a large sun terrace, as well as, spaced out indoor dining. 

Find out more about The Watership Down Inn

The Old Vine, Winchester

Outdoor seating at The Old Vine in Winchester

Take a break from exploring Winchester’s historic city-centre attractions at one of The Old Vine’s outdoor tables facing the cathedral. You’re welcome to stop by for a sandwich or snack, light lunch, supper or just a drink. Summer favourites include steamed Exmouth mussels in white wine and garlic cream; free-range chicken and chorizo skewers with a light Cajun spice; and The Old Vine’s famous home-made Scotch egg. On Saturdays and Sundays, the café-culture atmosphere is further enhanced as the Square is closed to traffic. You can also find a spot in The Old Vine's flower-filled rear patio and conservatory, one of the city’s best-kept secrets.

Find out more about The Old Vine

Lainston House, Winchester

Lainston House on the outskirts of the city of Winchester

Luxury alfresco dining is available on Lainston House’s Indian stone terraces to enjoy everything from a glass of Pimm’s to a fine award-winning dinner with far reaching views down the avenue of limes. For a quintessentially English experience, pick up a picnic basket and find a spot in the 63 acres of parkland. 

Find out more about Lainston House

Four Seasons Hampshire, Dogmersfield Park 

Four Seasons pizza

New for 2023, the Four Seasons Hotel Hampshire has opened its alfresco restaurant La Terrazza bringing a touch of La Dolce Vita to the county.

Dine out on mouthwatering pizzas straight from the traditional pizza oven, bursting with fresh, seasonal ingredients complemented by a colourful selection of freshly prepared salads and fine Italian cold cuts. Fill your glass with an Italian-inspired cocktail and enjoy the lush countryside views.

Find out more about the Four Seasons Hampshire 

The Beach Club, Southsea

The Beach Club

A proudly independent beachside bar and restaurant, combining a passion for food and drink with the South’s most sought after view.

Mouth-watering contemporary dishes and a classic seaside selection are available all day, catering for all ages. The Beach Club supports local suppliers and food is prepared freshly to order.

Find out more about The Beach Club

Southsea Beach Cafe

Southsea Beach Cafe

Southsea Beach Cafe is positioned right on the beach at South Parade Pier.

The cafe has the most amazing uninterrupted views of the Solent and Isle of Wight, which you can enjoy whilst eating and drinking freshly cooked food from local produce. 

Come rain or shine there is a indoor and outdoor terrace area and when the sun comes out there is a retractable roof to enjoy the weather and locally sourced home cooked and seasonal food.

Find out more about Southsea Beach Cafe

Inn on the Beach, Hayling Island

Inn on the Beach

Occupying a stunning location right on the beach on Hayling Island, the Inn on the Beach is the ideal destination on a warm summer day. With more open space than ever and views overlooking the Solent, the Inn on the Beach is the perfect place to unwind and catch the ever-changing sunset. Don’t miss out on the chance to grab some fish & chips from the garden kitchen this summer and experience these views for yourself. With the Inn’s regularly rotated guest and craft ales, you won’t go thirsty on their watch!

Find out more about The Inn on the Beach

Beachcomber Cafe, Barton on Sea

Beachcomber cafe

Located on Barton on Sea cliff top the Beachcomber Cafe is surrounded by stunning views of The Solent and the Isle of Wight's Needles. 

The cafe has a large garden which is perfect for taking in the views in the sunshine.  Look out for live music taking place on most weekends.

Find out more about the Beachcomber Cafe

Where is your favourite place to eat and drink outdoors in Hampshire? Tell us below in the comments. 


Find out more about Summer in Hampshire and all the great things you can see and do

See our full guide to food and drink in Hamshire

Discover amazing accommodation including hotels, holiday cottages, campsites and glamping sites

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