Outdoor dining is a bigger part of life than ever, and we think these cosy spots are the pick of the local bunch!
The Willow Tree
Offering a truly unique take on outdoor dining, The Willow Tree in Bourn has added to its heated patio facilities with individual dining domes. Spread across the greenery of the grounds, the otherworldly domes are transparent tessellations of hexagonal panels, forming an igloo-like seclusion that allows you to feel safe in your own dining bubble. You even get to enjoy the majestic views of the warmly lit willow while you dine, making for a magical outdoor dining experience.
The Old Spring
The spacious, heated terrace at The Old Spring is the perfect place to enjoy a hearty, filling meal this winter. With picnic-style benches and rustic table-topped barrels, the outdoor dining area has plenty of space for you to relax and unwind over a drink with friends. It also features a partial marquee covering, providing extra shelter and warmth while still allowing you to enjoy the fresh air.
The Three Hills
No matter where you live or what the restrictions are, you can still dine in style at The Three Hills. The romantic fairy lit patio – complete with powerful heaters – is a charming location to enjoy the pub’s excellent locally sourced menu. Snuggle up under the patio’s canopy with a wonderfully cosy blanket as you tuck into some of the delicious festive fare on offer, and you can even bring your dog along for the occasion! There are also plenty of picnic benches on site, so you can set yourself up in the pub’s beautifully landscaped garden. Or, if it gets a little too chilly for you, there’s always the toasty bar to migrate to, with its rustic log burners and underfloor heating.
Novi
If you missed out on a visit to Novi’s sun-trap roof terrace over the summer months, you needn’t worry; as the weather turns, the all-year-round space is transformed into a sheltered winter wonderland. Draped with an overhead tent and adorned with twinkling fairy lights, the homely hideout is kept toasty and warm with outdoor heaters, and there are plenty of sheepskins and blankets to wrap up with. Treat yourself to a festive mulled wine or cider – and relax.
Tuddenham Mill
The idyllic, tranquil setting of Tuddenham Mill really lends itself to a relaxing evening of alfresco fun, but the venue’s tipi takes the outdoor dining experience to a whole new level. Featuring an impressive open fire at its heart, the tipi, although spacious, has a cosy and intimate feel, with the warm glow from the flames casting soft shadows on the billowy fabric. The tipi is also dotted with fairy lights, creating a charming festive atmosphere that you’ll be sure to enjoy on a cold winter’s evening.
The Three Tuns
Tackling the change of weather and the changing restrictions in one fell swoop, The Three Tuns in Great Abington’s new dining huts, each with their own music and heating, mean you can enjoy your meal or drinks outside within your own private space. Stay warm and cosy with your own social bubble and enjoy some of the tasty Thai food from the restaurant, while recreating the pub’s buoyant and cheerful atmosphere from the comfort and safety of your hut.
OtherSyde
Over the winter months, the large garden space at OtherSyde becomes a glowing, firelit haven. Tuck into a delicious stone-baked pizza or flatbread and sample some of the best craft brewed beers in Cambridge as you overlook the Cam, surrounded by century-old apple trees. There’s even a cosy tipi nestled between the picnic tables, providing a secluded hideaway that you can book as a dining space, or hire out for your very own silent disco.
Gonville Hotel
For an elegant alfresco dining experience, the terrace restaurant at the Gonville Hotel is tough to beat. With its large umbrellas and patio heaters, the York stone terrace is fully kitted out for your comfort come rain or shine. And thanks to its gorgeous, expansive views across Parker’s Piece, it’s the ideal spot to head for a relaxing brunch, or an exquisite evening meal in the city.
The Garden Café
Situated in the city’s resplendent Botanic Garden, The Garden Café offers a relaxing retreat for those of you looking for an outdoor spot to treat yourself to a tasty takeaway snack. Surrounded by all of the leafy loveliness that the Botanic Garden is known for, you can relax and enjoy some of the café’s delicious offerings – whether it’s breakfast, lunch or an indulgent takeaway meal – plus a hot drink to stave off the chill, of course.
MORE LIKE THIS:
The Cambridge Winter Dining Guide
The Cambridge Christmas Shopping Guide
