It may be freezing outside, but that doesn’t mean al fresco drinking is off the table this winter. Here’s a rundown of some of the cosiest spots for outdoor imbibing in Europe, from heated beer gardens to luxurious hotel terrace bars.
The Windsor Castle, London
One of west London’s best-kept secrets, the Windsor Castle’s huge pub garden comes complete with heated areas for snug outdoor dining and even its own bar, so you can spend cool winter nights outside in spite of what the British weather throws at you.
The Temple Bar, Dublin
Right in the middle of the busy city of Dublin, the Temple Bar’s beer garden offers a safe haven from all the hustle and bustle, whatever the weather. Set at the centre of the pub, the garden area lets punters stay warm and dry while sipping an Irish coffee or two.
Amicus Apple, Edinburgh
With an award-winning drinks menu and delicious seasonal food, there are few better vantage points from which to enjoy scenic views of Edinburgh Castle than the cosy Amicus Apple. The bar hosts an all-weather terrace, which is inviting enough to ward off the harsh Scottish winters.
Brasserie de Joffers, Amsterdam
The terrace of the Brasserie de Joffers is an ideal place to enjoy the sights and sounds of Amsterdam’s museum quarter, or have a restorative drink after a walk through nearby Vondelpark. With its overhead heaters and snug blankets, it’s one of the cosiest spots around town.
Le Falstaff, Brussels
This beautiful Art Nouveau bar-café, located in the centre of Brussels, keeps its patrons safe from the city’s fearsome winter weather. From within the warmth of the protected terrace, enjoy coffee and cake and watch the world go by.
Bairro Alto Hotel, Lisbon
The rooftop terrace at the stylish Bairro Alto Hotel is the ideal place from which to take in the exceptional views of Lisbon and the Tagus River (or just curl up with a good book on the chaise lounges). No matter the season, the outdoor drinking here is warm and cheery.
La Terrazza, Florence
La Terrazza Bar sits atop the medieval Consorti tower of the Hotel Continentale and boasts some of the best views in Florence and its many sights, from Brunelleschi’s Dome to the Palazzo Vecchio. Heated benches and a fireplace ensure it’s still hospitable in chillier temperatures.
Written by insider city guide series Hg2 | A Hedonist’s guide to… whose guides cover all the best hotels, restaurants, bars, clubs, sights, shops and spas
(The featured image is © rankomm/iStock/Thinkstock)
