Pull up a chair on a sun-drenched terrace, amid blooming gardens or on the banks of the meandering River Cam at one of these fine local eateries
1. Gonville Hotel
Gonville Place
It’s a happy day indeed when summer returns to the Gonville Kitchen terrace! With views across Parker’s Piece, this is a distinctly open and verdant city spot. Sit out in the sun or opt for some shade under the parasols as you enjoy truly refined gastronomy. Here, a fusion of seasonal British produce and Mediterranean inspiration might lead you to sample such dishes as tempura oysters, pan-seared bream, salt-baked celeriac or new seasonal delights.
2. Six
The Varsity Hotel, Thompsons Lane
Located high up on the sixth floor of The Varsity Hotel, the views from the terrace tables at Six are unparalleled. Cambridge at its finest: on a clear summer’s day, you can see for miles while indulging in modern, seasonal food, from prime fillet steak and grilled lobster to mussels marinara, wild mushroom risotto and a selection of pizzas – plus a traditional roast dinner on Sundays. Why not also enjoy a pre- or post-meal cocktail on the Roof Terrace, where the vista is truly panoramic!
3. Pint Shop
Peas Hill
There’s a cute little outdoor area tucked away at the back of the Pint Shop that echoes the laid-back urban, arty vibe of the restaurant’s interior. Strung with fairy lights and alive with greenery, grab a bench for summer chillouts with friends over a light bite or hearty meal from the seasonal menu – and a refreshing beverage from the extensive beer, cider and cocktail list. The Aperol spritz is definitely a summer must-drink.
4. Garden House
Granta Place, Mill Lane
Imagine yourself seated in the sun with a summer breeze rustling through the trees overhead, soaking up the relaxed ambience as you gaze out over the River Cam towards Coe Fen. The menu here is affordable but with a fine-dining feel, offering a selection of small plates and grill-focused mains. Garden House is also known for its refreshing spritz cocktails, and even hosts Spritz Hour between 5pm and 7pm from Monday to Thursday, when you can enjoy two-for-one on selected tipples in the garden and garden bar.
5. The Gog
Heath Farm, Shelford Bottom
The Gog Farm Shop is renowned for its carefully curated range of fine local produce and its scenic location, nestled at the heart of the Gog Magog Hills – and you can reap the benefits by taking a seat at its Shack Cafe and Terrace, under a towering tree. Hot or cold, breakfast or lunch, there’s plenty to choose from – including cured Suffolk bacon rolls, kimchi pancakes, the popular three herb and mustard scotch egg and The Gog burger. Gluten-free, dairy-free and vegetarian/vegan options are available. Plus, look out for visiting food trucks and DJs on Thursday evenings!
6. The Old Bridge
High Street, Huntingdon
Walk-ins are welcome for patio seating at this delightful 18th-century townhouse hotel, situated on the banks of the Great River Ouse in Huntingdon. Breakfast, lunch, dinner and delectable afternoon tea menus are all available at The Old Bridge, where the light and airy restaurant boasts views out across the garden area for indoor diners. Regular events are hosted here, with June’s offerings including a Summer Wine Fair on 8 June and a special Father’s Day menu on 15 June.
7. Cafe Foy
Quayside
For a casual brunch or lunch date, head to the delightful Cafe Foy, where you can kick back on the quayside and enjoy good food, coffee and conversation. From breakfast bagels, Turkish eggs and shakshuka to the famous Foy toastie – with its signature three-cheese blend, bechamel and a selection of fillings – this is hearty, flavoursome fare that’s sure to sustain your socialising. Or, for a tea, cake and a quick catch-up scenario, you’re in luck: there’s a lip-smacking range of sweet treats supplied by a local bakery.
8. The Oak Bistro
Lensfield Road
In the summer months, The Oak Bistro’s charming garden courtyard comes alive each evening for refined alfresco dining. Covers, blankets, lighting and heating are on hand, should the need arise! The set lunch and à la carte menus feature classic British and European dishes, all homemade using traditional recipes and quality ingredients, as well as being artistically presented. Plus, there’s a hand-curated wine list for that all-important summer tipple.
9. Midsummer House
Midsummer Common
With the grassy pastures of Midsummer Common unfurling around you and the river rolling by next to the Victorian splendour of Midsummer House, you can enjoy aperitifs and canapes before your meal, and conclude with coffee and a digestif with petit fours, outside on the riverside terrace or in the garden. There’s also outdoor heating should an evening chill set in. Boasting refined contemporary British cuisine – with carefully paired wines as well as non-alcoholic drink options – the two Michelin star Midsummer House is a great choice for a fine-dining experience.
10. Provenance Kitchen
Hill Farm Road, Whittlesford
Renowned for its use of open fire, charcoal and Konro grills and locally sourced seasonal ingredients, Provenance Kitchen started life as a food truck before venturing (quite literally) into Brix + Mortar – the name of its restaurant, opened in 2019. If you like more of a laid-back, festival-cum-farm-shop vibe, the courtyard and large meadow garden here are the place for you. The monthly changing menus all have the wood-fired hearth at their heart, featuring fine cuts of meat, succulent fish and vibrant vegetarian and vegan dishes – as well as a roast dinner.
11. The Tickell Arms
North Road, Whittlesford
This Whittlesford gem located close to Duxford boasts not one, but two garden spaces! The beautifully tended main garden has an impressive feature pond with ornamental fountain, alongside terrace tables and chairs – the perfect place to sit with friends or family, soaking up the sun, surrounded by the colours of summer… and indulging in a delicious alfresco meal. The food here is fresh, seasonal and, where possible, locally sourced, with evolving menus featuring modern dishes and an especially popular Sunday roast. If you’re just after drinks or lighter bites, take a seat in the beer garden.
