Bristol’s best alfresco dining places for winter

Still want to head out and support our wonderful hospitality scene, but would rather stick to outside dining? Fear not, there are lots of lovely, twinkling festive options for you to get comfy at across the city
The pandemic maybe forcing people outside - but that’s not a problem in Bristol where there are plenty of Alfresco optionsThe pandemic maybe forcing people outside - but that’s not a problem in Bristol where there are plenty of Alfresco options
The pandemic maybe forcing people outside - but that’s not a problem in Bristol where there are plenty of Alfresco options

Despite the pandemic trying to put a stop to all our plans across the world, there are still lots of outdoor options available for those who would be more comfortable dining and drinking outside this Christmas.

Or, perhaps you just like sitting amongst the cool air, surrounded by fairy lights and fluffy blankets while sipping on something mulled and warming? We know, it sounds like Christmas in a cup, right?

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Luckily for us Bristol folk, we’re a city that does alfresco dining the right way, so we’ve rounded up all of the places you could head to this festive season to support your local hospitality scene and ring in the new year and Christmas.

A bit of a different one for you here, but brilliant for those of you with four-legged friends. The new Doghouse on Portland Street in Clifton is Bristol’s very own dog dining cafe, as well as a groomer and pet shop, too.

They’ve really pushed the boat out with festivities this year, so you can sit outside on their white fluffy rugs with a hot drink and mince pie, looking down The Mall and toasting to all things festive with your pooch. Your dog can be happy too, as there are plenty of puppuccinos and pupcakes available as well.

The Secret Garden at the Square Club, just off Park Street, is a perfect spot for alfresco winter dining. Covered with an awning, but still outdoors, and packed full of heaters and twinkling lights, it’s as festive as they come - but you won’t have to worry about getting too cold! Sounds like a winter winner to us.

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It wouldn’t be an alfresco dining and drinking spaces round-up without including the champion of outdoor terraces, would it? Bambalan has a wonderful and large roof terrace, with views across the city and a heated, covered terrace to enjoy this winter. Not only that, for Christmas, they’ve packed it full of blankets, as well as plenty of warming cocktails, too!

With DJ’s from 5-10pm on a weekend, too, it’s a good option for those of you who really want to still get into the festive party spirit but who would feel more comfortable doing so in the fresh air.

With an abundance of space on offer, the Yard Bar at The Tobacco Factory on North Street has transformed into a twinkly, festive grotto.

You’ll find all sorts of traditional drinks on offer to warm your insides from mulled wine and cider to mulled apple juice if you want to take the kids along. Fancy something like gingerbread cake or dutch doughnuts to really get in the spirit - you’ll find it all here!

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Want something more substantial than drinks or coffee on a terrace? Wokyko on Cargo is setting up their rooftop space to be as festive as possible, and encouraging people to dine with a difference this festive season.

With steaming bao buns, crispy Korean chicken and cold brew chai cocktails to warm your cockles, they can host up to 26 guests outdoors under their bright Christmas lights, weather cover and toasty heaters. Plus, Wapping Wharf always does a fine job of looking festive and twinkly in the season, so the atmosphere is sure to get you feeling ready for the big day.

A favourite spot for so many, The Bristolian has really decked the halls this year and made sure their outdoor area is covered, warm and inviting for the festive season.

With lanterns hanging from above, lights everywhere and Christmas foliage wrapping the outdoor structure, you can chill with brunch, lunch or coffee and cake at any time of day and rest in the knowledge you’ll be outside but warm and cosy.

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Sometimes, all it takes to feel in the Christmas spirit are some good sparkling fairy lights, good company and even better food. Well, you’re luck’s in at The Malago on North Street, as this can all come in droves.

With a huge tent covering, plenty of spaced out seating and fairy lights hung all around, head down there for alfresco dining, festive drinks and a brilliant menu.

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