Why Newcastle Shines for Al Fresco Dining in July
July is prime time to enjoy Newcastle’s thriving outdoor food and drink scene. With long sunny evenings, festival vibes in the air, and buzzing beer gardens along the River Tyne, locals and visitors alike flock to the city’s top terraces, courtyards and riverside patios.
Whether you're in the mood for brunch, craft beer, cocktails or a romantic dinner with a view, Newcastle delivers—with Geordie hospitality to match.
Top Spots for Outdoor Brunch & Daytime Bites
1. The Kiln, Ouseburn
Where: Hume Street, Ouseburn
What to Expect: Boho vibes, locally roasted coffee, creative brunches, and a sun-drenched courtyard.
Local Tip: Arrive before 11am to beat the weekend rush—perfect for dog lovers and creatives.
2. Olive & Bean
Where: Clayton Street
What to Expect: Hidden terrace in the city centre with hearty brunches, cakes, and vegan-friendly options.
Local Tip: Grab a window seat or ask to sit on the upstairs terrace on sunny days.
3. Flat Caps Coffee
Where: Carliol Square
What to Expect: Speciality coffee and open-air tables near leafy Northumberland Street.
Local Tip: Try their iced lattes and cinnamon buns for a mid-morning pick-me-up.
Beer Gardens & Riverside Pubs
4. Free Trade Inn
Where: Ouseburn, overlooking the Tyne
What to Expect: One of the best river views in the city, with rotating craft ales and a no-frills beer garden.
Local Tip: Ideal for sunsets—bring snacks and watch the sky change behind the Tyne Bridge.
5. The Tyne Bar
Where: Beneath Byker Bridge
What to Expect: Live music, street food, local beer and chilled riverside seating.
Local Tip: Their Sunday Sessions offer great live music—check their socials for summer events.
6. The Bridge Tavern
Where: Under the Tyne Bridge, Quayside
What to Expect: Craft brewery on site, a buzzing terrace, and gastro pub meals.
Local Tip: Try their IPA brewed in-house with seasonal small plates.
Best Rooftop Bars & Evening Drinks Outdoors
7. ABOVE at The Vermont
Where: Castle Garth
What to Expect: Chic rooftop bar with panoramic views of the Tyne, perfect for cocktails and celebrations.
Local Tip: Book a table in advance—sunset slots are snapped up fast.
8. Roof Thirty Nine at Fenwick
Where: Top floor of Fenwick, Northumberland Street
What to Expect: Stylish rooftop garden serving summer menus, cocktails, and sharing boards.
Local Tip: Great for pre-theatre dining or a date night with a breeze.
9. Banyan Newcastle
Where: Monument Mall
What to Expect: Huge outdoor terrace with contemporary food, bottomless brunches, and spritz cocktails.
Local Tip: Go midweek for quieter daytime vibes—ideal for remote workers or long lunches.
Quayside & Patio Dining Gems
10. Dobson & Parnell
Where: Quayside
What to Expect: Upscale modern British cuisine with outside seating and seasonal tasting menus.
Local Tip: Perfect for a special occasion—book early to get one of the coveted outside tables.
11. Gusto Italian
Where: Quayside
What to Expect: Elegant Italian dishes on a fairy-lit terrace overlooking the river.
Local Tip: Ask for a river-facing table for dinner with views of the Millennium Bridge.
12. Lola Jeans
Where: Market Street
What to Expect: Bold burgers, cocktails, and stylish outdoor seating with city vibes.
Local Tip: Their truffle fries and signature burgers are local legends—ideal for a fun evening out.
Local Tips for Outdoor Dining in July
- Check for pop-up events. Newcastle often hosts street food festivals in Exhibition Park and local breweries host summer weekend sessions.
- Always book ahead. Outdoor seating goes quickly, especially on sunny Fridays and Saturdays.
- Pack layers. Even in July, evenings by the river can get breezy.
- Explore Ouseburn. This creative district has quirky outdoor spaces, music venues, and hidden food trucks.
🏡 Thinking of Letting a Holiday Property in Newcastle?
July brings a wave of visitors to Newcastle—whether it’s for food festivals, summer concerts, or a city break with riverside views. If you own a property in the area, this is the ideal time to list it on platforms like Airbnb or Booking.com.
Pass the Keys Newcastle, run by local experts Andrew and Richard, helps you take full advantage of the summer rush. From guest management and cleaning to pricing optimisation and marketing, they handle everything—so you don’t have to.
☀️ Final Thoughts
Newcastle comes alive in the sunshine. From craft beer spots under the bridges to rooftop cocktails and riverside brunches, July is your chance to experience the city in full summer swing. Whether you’re visiting for the weekend or welcoming guests to your holiday home, these outdoor dining gems are your go-to for eating and drinking in style.