Summer is the season to take a step back, enjoy yourself and enjoy a good tipple or two. When the good weather and summer sun decides to pay us Brits a visit, it’s the perfect opportunity to head outside and enjoy a refreshing drink. From a quick pint in a beer garden, to a day of drinking on some amazing roof terraces, it is important to find the best location to keep the summer vibes going.
Roland’s
Hidden away in the heart of Leeds city centre, Roland’s roof terrace is one of the best locations to enjoy drinks in the sunshine this season. The small, intimate sun terrace is ideal for catching up with friends and the strings of fairy lights make it the perfect drinking spot in the day and well into the night. Spoilt for choice, Roland’s serves up craft beers from all over the world, yummy cocktails and much more to keep you feeling refreshed. Of the wide variety of cocktails, try the Summer Highball with flavours of raspberry, hibiscus, rose, elderflower, or a marvellous Mediterranean tonic. You can also try the big boss’ favourite drink of all time, the Michelada, which is made of their secret house spice and tomato mix served with a Pacifico Lager.
Kirkstall Bridge Inn
Enjoy a beer in the sunshine next to the stunning River Aire at Kirkstall Bridge Inn, with an outdoor seating area perfect to take in the summer scene. This community-focused pub welcomes everyone with a menu of pub classics, including vegan, vegetarian and gluten free options available, so everyone can indulge in some delicious food alongside their pint. They are also proud to serve locally brewed beer from Kirkstall Brewery. Spokane is a summery beer of choice with crisp flavours and a dry finish. Flavours of grapefruit zest, pine and a hint of mandarin burst onto your tongue with your first sip. The perfectly balanced taste makes this beer great for a riverside drink in the sun. If 6% is too tempting for a sunny all-dayer, delicious cask ales such as Kirkstall Pale are also served here. And better yet, they’re dog friendly so make sure to bring your furry friends and enjoy a relaxing evening outside by the river.
Los Moros
Find summer vibes in the centre of York on Grape Lane, home to the delicious North African eatery Los Moros. Serving flavoursome authentic cuisine without the song and dance, as well as locally brewed beer, Los Moros’ hidden Moroccan courtyard will become your new favourite summer drinking spot. It’s the ultimate place to soak up some rays, meet with friends, taste the flavours of Africa and enjoy a refreshing glass of wine, cider or beer. Los Moros’ Pale Ale is an easy drinking American Pale, which is also vegan and said to pair lovely with their lamb merguez. The refreshing Los Moros Lager also pairs perfectly with the North African cuisine on the menu. Or treat yourself to a glass of Pimms, Whitley Neil Blood Orange Vodka or Havana Rum to get into the summer spirit (literally).
The Phoenix Inn
If a traditional pub atmosphere without the disruption of technology and loud music is what you are looking for, then head over to The Phoenix Inn in York. The relaxed atmosphere of their outdoor seating area is ideal for those quiet summer drinks that everyone craves after a busy working day. Their stunning paved beer garden is the best location for a peaceful drink with a view of the impressive city walls. Serving good northern beer is something they are committed to always do, with five real ales on tap. The current resident beers are Golden Pippin, Landlord and Wold Top Bitter which are served alongside two regularly changing guest ales. Golden Pippin in particular has great flavours for summer with a refreshing citrusy lemon taste.
Shibden Mill Inn
Nestled in the stunning landscapes of Shibden Valley in Halifax is Shibden Mill Inn. This cosy but luxurious pub is a great location for a pint, but also has a variety of other drinks on offer with a range of spirits and wines. You can sit outdoors in their picturesque patio garden during the summer months and enjoy your drink whilst soaking up the sunny weather. Delicious wines make for the perfect summer beverage, and their award winning list includes the fruity and aromatic Riesling Trocken with flavours of peach and floral spice, and the fruity, easy drinking Valpolicella with bright cherry aromas and a bite of freshness in the finish.
The Winterburn
The Winterburn, is an award-winning country pub and a beautiful location for a cold drink outdoors this season in their outdoor seating area overlooking the beautiful Yorkshire countryside. The Winterburn has recently reopened under new management but still proudly serves locally sourced food, a selection of seasonal Thwaites beer, and is dog friendly. Thwaites beer served at The Winterburn is a bitter, dry-tasting, clean and refreshing beer which is perfect to refresh yourself with. Enjoy your summer with the fun, friendly vibes of the pub at one of their quiz nights or just pop in for a quick drink and stay for a relaxing evening with a view.
Photos: The Winterburn, Rolands, Kirkstall Bridge Inn