With the summer finally here, it’s time for us to shine a spotlight on the best spots to enjoy a beer out in the sunshine.
In this week’s BID Spotlight we’re running through the best beer gardens and terraces in the centre of town.
The Rutland & Derby
A perfect sun trap roof terrace and always at the top of any list about Leicester beer gardens. Perfect for after work drinks. Visit during the Euros and you can enjoy watching on their outdoor screen, along with poutine, burgers and pizza from their summer pizza shed.
The Queen of Bradgate
Tucked away quietly at the back of the pub, this is a hidden gem of a city centre beer garden. Renovated last summer, seating ranges from high tables to larger spaces that are ideal for groups. Perfect for enjoying their daily happy hour.
The Tree
Always a favourite, The Tree has recently given the garden a bit of a revamp. Grab a table outside and enjoy 2 for £10 cocktails Monday – Thursday, and on Tuesday eat up with Taco Tuesday with tacos for just £2.50. Or make it a Wing Wednesday with 10 wings and a pint of Breakpoint for only £8. P.S. They’re also showing the Euros outside this summer too!
Phoenix
Don’t miss this sun trap roof terrace at Leicester independent cinema. Phoenix opened The Nest rooftop bar last year as part of their expansion. Perfect for a few drinks before or after your movie, or just to catch up with friends over cocktails.
Chutney Ivy
Did you know that you can pop into Chutney Ivy just for drinks as well as enjoying their beautiful food? Their outdoor terrace is in the heart of the Cultural Quarter and offers the ideal spot to meet up after work for a pint and a bhaji.
Wygston’s House
Soak up the sun on Jubilee Square in the expanded beer garden at Wygston’s House. With an outdoor bar inside their railings, you can also grab a table out on the square to enjoy food and drinks. Don’t miss their Aperol Happy Hour with 2 for 1 Aperol Spritz available every day from 5pm – 8pm, plus bottles of Prosecco for £16.
Firebug
Summer is the time for late nights in the Firebug garden. Open until 4am (and serving food until 3am at the weekends too!), it’s always the place to head for the end of the night on a warm evening.
The Soundhouse
For music fans, don’t miss the beer garden at The Soundhouse. Ideal for a few drinks outside between bands, or head down on a Saturday afternoon to enjoy their free Summer Sessions. These happen every Saturday through the summer as artists play live on the outdoor stage.
Knight & Garter
Overlooking Green Dragon Square, Knight & Garter is a summer must visit. Whether you’re there for dinner or just a few drinks, you can grab a table on the terrace for both food and drinks. From weekend brunch, to date night, to cocktails with friends, there’s always a reason to head to Knight & Garter.
Kayal
Did you know Kayal had a roof terrace? What a hidden gem this is. If you want to dine al fresco this summer, then pop down to Kayal for food on their roof terrace. The award-winning restaurant specialises in Kerala cuisine, with tasty seafood curries, dosas and more.
The Kings Head
Real ale, a cob, a somosa and some sunshine. What more could you want? But don’t worry, even if it’s not sunny, the roof terrace at The King’s Head can be completely covered. This gem at the bottom of King Street offers a great range of ales and craft beers, and shows live sport with screens upstairs on the rooftop terrace, come rain or shine.
Tonne Bar
Another one for craft beer fans… Tonne Bar in St Martin’s Square. And it’s another one that is open late, with late night opening EVERY night (until 2am). St Martin’s Square in always a go to spot in the sunshine, and Tonne has a lovely outdoor drinking area for you to sample their fantastic range of every changing beers. Plus, you’re right opposite Crafty to soak up the beer with a burger.
Our BID Spotlight features are brought to you in collaboration with BID Leicester.
