With the evenings growing longer as we get closer to summer, many people will be drawn to the appeal of alfresco dining.
In Worcestershire, we are lucky to have many great places for eating outdoors – from city centre venues to views over the rolling countryside.
Here are some of the best places to visit for a night of alfresco dining in Worcestershire, according to our readers:
The Olive Branch Mediterranean Bistro, Worcester
The Olive Branch (Image: Supplied)
Open from lunch and late into the evening, the city centre bistro is the perfect place for those who love to people watch and enjoy the business of the city.
The Olive Branch’s alfresco dining area wraps around the side of St Swithan’s church, keeping diners tucked away from the busy streets of the city.
Peter Fellowes said: “The Olive Branch is great for alfresco eating and has some good meal offers in the week too.
The Holt Fleet, Holt Heath
The Holt Fleet (Image: Newsquest)
Situated on the banks of the River Severn, across the river from the quaint village of Holt Fleet, and down the road from equally picturesque village of Holt Heath, this pub was recently named as having one of the most jaw-dropping garden views by Muddy Stilettos.
The Holt Fleet’s beer garden and patio is tucked away from the main road, and can act as the perfect stop for anyone following the Severn Way path, which cuts right through the pub’s car park.
Damian Beard said: “The Holt Fleet has outdoor seating right next to the river and great food.”
The Fleece Inn, Bretforton
The Fleece Inn (Image: Supplied)
Sat at the footsteps of the Cotswolds, this traditional pub in the cosy village of Bretforton, was recently named Pub of the Year at the Visit Worcestershire Tourism Awards.
Landlord Nigel Smith, who has attracted visitors to the pub from across the glob with his triennial Nigel Night celebrations, said the award was a proud moment.
When it comes to outdoor dining, there is plenty of seating available to visitors wishing to take in the beautiful surroundings of the chocolate box village.
Catherine Smith said: “The Fleece Inn has got lots of outdoor seating including a horse box.”
The New Inn, Shrawley
The New Inn (Image: Street View)
Home to just a few hundred residents, Shrawley is a hidden gem in every sense of the word.
The New Inn sits close to Shrawley Woods, which is one of the most visited sites in the county to see beautiful fields of bluebells, making the pub a popular place to stop by after with its ample benches and tables.
Sue Seabourne said: “The garden is something else, and the food is yummy and value for money.”
The Yorkshire Grey, Earl’s Croome
The Yorkshire Grey (Image: Street View)
Just off the A38 near Upton-upon-Severn is the Yorkshire Grey, an 18th-century country pub with benches both with views of the road and of the fields behind.
For those who enjoy a spring-time Sunday lunch, the pub has been rated as the best place in the county for a roast dinner by Google reviewers, with a 4.7/5 rating from 210 reviews.
Michael Gale said: “The Yorkshire Grey has a lovely outside area with lovely views, the food is fantastic and they are dog friendly too.”