Pubs in the North East with beer gardens and roof terraces – where to enjoy a drink in the sun

By Kingfisher Visitor Guides

The Beehive, Whitley Bay

Part of the lure of the The Beehive is their secret garden, which is a lovely patch of green tucked away at the side of the pub. It’s a great space to have a pint in the sunshine and there’s a play area for the kids to keep them occupied. Outside the pub there are plenty of seats.

The Bridge Tavern, Newcastle

Owned by the same team which has the Town Wall in the city centre, the bar nestles nicely under the Tyne Bridge has an outside terrace on the second floor. It even boasts its own on-site micro brewery, with Wylam Brewery, and the aroma of the brewing beer and ale is wonderful.

The Red Lion, Alnmouth

From the raised decking area at The Red Lion you’ll see boats bobbing about in the River Aln (or sat on the sand), plus there are weekly new arrivals on the kegs and casks from breweries like Firebrick, Wylam, Cumberland and Roosters.

Half Moon Inn, New Elvet, Durham

The Half Moon Inn in Durham has a lengthy beer garden which overlooks the river where you can enjoy watching canoeists, rowers & the ducks pass by whilst supping on a pint.

Barluga, Newcastle

Enjoy the classy surroundings of Barluga

The Grey Street bar’s roof terrace is definitely one of the most popular in the city. Split over two levels, the bar’s decor is focused around warm autumnal colours – the perfect setting for those looking for somewhere classy and comfortable. The atmosphere and service is always friendly in Barluga and if you’re looking to indulge the tastebuds, the bar-restaurant has an amazing gastropub style menu, as well as an a la carte menu of delicious modern British cuisine. We thoroughly recommend the tapas and sharing plates!

Horticulture, Newcastle

Horticulture on Market Lane is an outdoor drinking and dining haven; a beautiful al fresco spot in the heart of the city centre at which to enjoy delicious cocktails and food. This contemporary venue offers a modern British menu with international flavours. The restaurant offers small plates using locally-sourced, organic and fresh produce from North East farmers, butchers and fishermen. Together with a fantastic brunch offering it is also boasts a very popular bar with more than 40 different flavoured espresso martinis, including Newcastle Brown Ale, maple syrup, carrot cake and Black Forest gateau.

Black Horse Beamish

Black Horse Beamish is a country gastro pub, set in the idyllic Beamish conservation valley with fabulous panoramic views and has some fantastic outdoor spaces to enjoy a meal and a drink. The Black Horse is steeped in history. It was originally constructed around 1690 when it was one of 10 cottages built, before becoming a licensed pub around 1850. The pub is on a long, winding country road not far from Beamish Hall, as well as the popular tourist attraction Beamish Museum, with terrific views of the County Durham countryside.

The George Hotel, Hexham

There are views over the River North Tyne as it wends its way toward the meeting of the waters at Warden Rock from the hotel’s very alluringly-manicured garden.

Spy Bar, Jesmond

This well-known bar and lounge is situated on the infamous Osborne Road and is home to an outdoor terrace area to for North East party-goers to enjoy drinks in the sun. It also offers some fine American-style burgers and classic cocktails!

The Botanist, Newcastle

Popular city centre bar The Botanist boasts a fantastic terrace

The inviting outdoor terrace at The Botanist has its own bar and can seat around 100 people for table service. Overlooking Grey’s Monument this open air outdoor drinking space is perfect come rain or shine.

The Free Trade Inn, Newcastle

You can sit outside in either of The Free Trade Inn’s two-tiered beer gardens and you can enjoy great views of the river Tyne, Newcastle’s quayside and bridges.

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