Al Fresco Dining in Dorset

As summer beckons, days and evenings begin to warm. And there's nothing better than soaking up the sun with friends and family whilst enjoying the great food and drink that Dorset offers. Al fresco dining in Dorset is a great way of treating yourself and making memories, with lots of pubs, restaurants and cafes creating a perfect outdoor environment, whether you’re a local or just visiting.

Smuggler’s Inn, Osmington

Escape from everyday life with this perfect countryside gastropub. Smuggler’s Inn has a strong reputation in Dorset, and rightly so. Dating back to the 13^th century, not only is the history and heritage of Smuggler’s Inn a reason to visit, its deliciously high-rated food and a fantastic range of award-winning cask ales and world lagers will put a smile on your face.

Cove House Inn, Portland

Situated at the start (or end, you choose) of Dorset’s famous Chesil Beach lies one of the South Coast’s favourites, Cove House Inn. Resting at the bottom of the isle of Portland, Cove House backs on to the sound of crashing waves along with the beautiful view of cliff sides and the 18-mile stretch of Chesil Beach. This all comes complete with some fantastic food and drink to make your afternoon or evening absolutely perfect.

Three Horseshoes Inn, Burton Bradstock

Further along the Jurassic Coast is home to the respected village of Burton Bradstock. One of TripAdvisor’s favourites, the Three Horseshoes Inn is everything you could imagine when you think of an ideal village pub. Extremely good food and drink accompanied by a lovely garden and a friendly atmosphere makes the full package.

Les Enfants Terribles, Weymouth

With state-of-the-art French cuisine, this TripAdvisor favourite means restaurant Les Enfants Terribles is a tasty addition to Weymouth’s harbourside. For all seafood lovers, the widely admired Chef Eric will rustle up a meal that is difficult to forget. You can sit and enjoy the scenes of the harbourside whilst treating your taste buds to some locally sourced fresh fish and shellfish, and some great wine if you wish. Other local meats and vegetarian options are also available.

Deli on the Quay, Poole

On the beautiful quayside within Poole lies Deli on the Quay. The top-notch sandwiches, salads and pastries make this place a top choice for a morning top-up or a brilliant lunch. With reasonable prices, you can grab a bite of your choice, relax outside and take in the scenes of the admirable harbourside. Even Gordon Ramsey loves it here! They also have special offers on for bike nights at Poole Quay and gift hampers available.

Fat Badger, Weymouth

Another wonder of Dorset’s Chesil Beach welcomes the Fat Badger. A dog-friendly place inside and out, the Fat Badger was quick to make a name for itself in Weymouth for its outstanding food. On the warmer days, the outdoor decking offers astonishing, panoramic views of the coastline. A combination of excellent food, drink and scenery makes this place a local favourite.

The Customs House, West Bay

The beauty of Dorset means you can’t get enough of the coastline. West Bay, or Broadchurch to some, also offers a stunning harbour and a beach with remarkable cliff-side views. The place is full of eateries, but one of the best is The Customs House. When exploring the area, The Customs House is the ideal boutique to stop for a coffee, cake and much more. The al fresco dining area offers a touch of uniqueness with its market-like setting.

The Old Granary, Wareham

The Old Granary is viewed by some as the most beautiful pub-restaurant in Dorset. Why? You’d be sat overlooking the River Frome with additional views of the hills of Purbeck, and whilst the place is lovely and peaceful, you’re certain to receive immaculate food and drinks. If you’re looking for something a bit special or simply a casual lunch or dinner, then eating outside at The Old Granary is nothing short of delightful.

Brewery Square, Dorchester

Dorchester boasts a quite remarkably renovated Brewery Square in place of the previous Eldridge Pope. The setting is modern and up-market and you’re not stuck for choice when wanting some great food. All eateries within Brewery Square offer stylish outdoor seating areas including Carluccio’s, Wagamama, Nando’s, Cote Brasserie and Zizzi. You have the option of enjoying your meal in relaxing areas with the satisfying view of the modernised square, or sit in a peaceful enclousure at the other side.

BH2 Leisure Complex, Bournemouth

A couple of years ago, in February 2017, the bustling town of Bournemouth was made even better when the BH2 leisure complex opened. Not only does it accommodate a giant cinema, there are now a variety of venues offering food to cater for all tastes; Ask Italian, Las Iguanas and Frankie & Bennies all offer lovely and stylish outdoor seating areas, too. The refreshingly modern outdoor areas next to Bournemouth’s state-of-the-art garden makes for a perfect summer daytime/evening with a great range of tasty food.