Take the Indoors Out with our Winter-Proof Alfresco Dining in Cheshire

Chester and Cheshire are in Tier 2, meaning you can see friends and family you do not live with (or do not have a support bubble with) outdoors, including alfresco dining, in a group of no more than 6. This limit of 6 includes children of any age.

You can continue to meet in a group larger than 6 if you are all from the same household or support bubble or another legal exemption applies.

Cheshire has a wonderful selection of bars, pubs and restaurants that offer al fresco dining, and with the days and nights getting a little colder, many have winter-proofed their outdoor spaces so you can still dine outdoors despite the chilly weather. We’ve put together a delicious selection of al fresco options across Cheshire, but as always, to avoid disappointment we advise calling ahead, and just in case be sure to wrap up warm! See all outdoor dining options here. 

The Terrace at San Lorenzo - Warrington

Located in Warrington's historic Treasury Building on Palmyra Square, The Terrace Gin and Cigar Bar is a truly unique offering and one not to miss this festive season. On the outdoor, fully heated terrace, have some delicious dishes from The Terrace Food Menu to accompany your Christmas drinks.

The Hart of Hartford - Hartford

At The Hart of Hartford, there really is everything you can want. There's an innovative brunch menu, complete with pancakes and French Toast. Then there's lunhc staples done with a modern twist with everything from salt beef sandwiches to roast pumpkin and harrisa tagine. Then for dinner, there's everything from sumptuous sharing platters to cauliflower, spinach and cheddar pancakes. What's more, there's now a Nordic-inspired outdoor area with plenty of heat to keep you warm whilst you dine and enjoy their signature cocktails!

The Lost & Found – Knutsford 

In the heart of the scenic yet chic town of Knutsford you’ll find The Lost & Found, an Avant Garde cocktail bar and restaurant boasting exceptional mixology and seasonal cuisine. Enjoy a range of innovative dishes al fresco with their comfortable outdoor space. 

The Leigh Arms – Little Leigh

A favourite amongst locals and visitors from further afield, The Leigh Arms sits amongst some of Cheshire’s most gorgeous scenery along the River Weaver and by the Trent & Mersey Canal. This 17^th Century public house boasts great British pub fayre and a regular rotation of special dishes. There’s ample room outdoors where you can meet friends and enjoy some hearty pub food. What’s more, the pub is a popular starting point for some great walks along the Weaver Way.

The Pheasant Inn – Tattenhall

Discover a different view of dining at the five-star Pheasant Inn; a quintessentially English country pub nestled in the gloriously unspoilt Peckforton Hills. Proudly overlooking everything from the Cheshire Plain to North Wales from its location along the historic Sandstone Trail, this hidden treasure is a retreat for locals and visitors alike, championing delicious, honest, homecooked food made from the finest locally sourced fresh ingredients and produce. You can enjoy all of this on their gorgeous terrace and really embrace the outdoors. 

The Black Dog – Waverton

The Black Dog in Waverton near Chester offers contemporary pub classics done to perfection. They’ve taken al fresco dining to the next level with their Exclusive Private Dining Igloos seating up to 8 guests the Domes. They really are the perfect social bubble for your social bubble tucked away in the stunning Cheshire countryside. 

The Fox & Barrel – Cotebrook

The Fox & Barrel at Cotebrook is an example of a truly Cheshire country pub. It’s even been recommended in the Good Food Guide for nine consecutive years. They offer a wide range of beers, local real ales and wines together with excellent food using the highest quality ingredients. At the Fox & Barrel you’ll find friendly, attentive service in a traditional, relaxing atmosphere with beamed ceilings and welcoming open fires, plus they love our four legged friends and are dog friendly throughout the beautiful bar area. What’s more, there’s ample room outdoors to dine al fresco in some of Cheshire’s most beautiful scenery; you can even book a festive outdoor dining cabin which seats up to six people!

The Kinderton - Middlewich

The Kinderton, based in the historic town of Middlewich offers a great variety of pub classics alongsikde some great inventive cocktails and even afternoon tea. And you can rest assured. Since re-opening the team at The Kinderton have invested heavily in both creating a secure Covid environment and also ensuring that our outside space would be usable throughout the winter months with the introduction of large covered areas and private heated booths to enable people to still come out and socialise. 

The Hayhurst Arms - Bostock Green

Just outside Northwich in the serene village of Bostock Green, you'll find the Hayhurst Arms - a quintessentially Cheshire pub with modern chic touches. With a menu offering the classics done to perfection, you can dine al fresco at The Hayhurst Arms in their new large capacity tipi! 

The Plough and Flail Inn – Mobberley

A warm welcome awaits you at The Plough & Flail. Situated in the picturesque Cheshire countryside, in the village of Mobberley, Knutsford, the Plough and Flail’s outstanding rural setting alone makes it a destination worth visiting. They offer a traditional pub welcome with local ales, fine wines and good home cooked food. For al fresco dining, there’s a large beer garden and as well as a sheltered garden, perfect for keeping out the elements whilst keeping outdoors.

Bench Bistro Bar - Nantwich

Looking for great afternoon tea and quality bistro style meals with a quirky twist? Look no further than Bench Bistro Bar. Situated in the gorgeous historic town of Nantwich, Bench offer an exciting yet relaxed dining style. You can Pick 'n' Mix from their sharing plate menu for big flavours in small portions, delivering a huge range of choice and taste! As well as that, there’s a comprehensive wine list and an extensive choice of creative cocktails with a twist. If you’re looking for al fresco dining, Bench has you covered with plenty of outdoor seating on the terrace and even a new tipi.

The Wheatsheaf - Sandbach

This AA 5 Star Gold awarded Gastropub and Steakhouse in Hightown, Sandbach has firmly established itself as the destination of choice amongst local residents and visitors alike who appreciate outstanding food, great beers, wines, cocktails and a friendly engaging service. The Wheatsheaf has been extensively restored to create a modern, relaxing ambience while retaining the architectural charm of its 19th century coaching inn heritage. Their fully covered, heated terrace is already in high demand following the latest government advice.  This popular outdoor space is ideal for groups of up to six people from mixed households to socialise safely.

The Waterside - Warrington

At The Waterside in Warrington, you'll find a menu built around quality char-grilled steak, chicken, fish, vegetarian dishes and burgers, plus a choice of pub classics that everyone loves. What's more, there's plenty of outdoor seating, including individual pods as well as plenty of heating for those chillier times!

Blakemere Social at Blakemere Village

Nestled between The Courtyard and Village Restaurant, Blakemere Village Social is the perfect location to meet with friends, enjoy a couple of drinks or even have bite to eat - set in a picturesque giant tipi, complete with heaters. Snuggle up in this December with a tasty hot chocolate at Blakemere Village Social– a brand new food and drink concept right in the heart of the village! Enjoy a variety of table service street food and snacks, hot and cold drinks from the outdoor bar and a fully contactless ordering and payment system designed with your safety in mind.