Lancaster’s top five alfresco dining spots
As spring approaches, the search for the best outdoor dining near your student accommodation in Lancaster is on! Fortunately, we've got you covered with our top five picks for alfresco dining in the city.
All of the venues on our list offer unique menus and stunning outdoor spaces that are perfect for a casual bite, a brunch with friends, or even a slightly boozy afternoon.
The Waterwitch
The Waterwitch is a super popular pub along the Lancaster canal, it’s a great place for a group as there is plenty of outdoor seating that offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Even though it's just a 15-minute bus ride from Bailrigg Student Living, it feels like a world away. This student favourite, is a great spot for a leisurely lunch or a pint with friends, and the pub's extensive menu features plenty of traditional pub grub, along with some more upscale dishes. Whether you're craving a hearty sandwich, a classic British roast dinner, or a vegetarian curry, there's something that even the fussiest of flatmates can enjoy at the Waterwitch.
Aquila Wood Fired Pizza
If you're in the mood for some delicious wood-fired pizza that comes with a (free!) picturesque view, Aquila Wood Fired Pizza is the perfect place to grab a takeaway in the town. Famous for its authentic Neapolitan-style pizza made with fresh ingredients and cooked in a wood-fired oven, the menu boasts a variety of classic and a-tad-more-creative pizza options, from the traditional Margherita to the spicy Tandoori Chicken and the uber popular vegan-friendly Wild Mushroom pizza.
Once, you’ve picked from the tempting menu, we recommend that you and your student halls flatmates take your pizza to go and enjoy a slice by the canal! The benches by the Toll House Inn are a great place to sit and take in the beautiful surroundings of the canal and watch the boats go by and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Zizzi
If you're looking for a little bit of Italian flair for a date night, head to Zizzi. Built for romance, this restaurant is located in the heart of Lancaster and offers a wide variety of pasta dishes, pizzas, and salads. The reason we love this restaurant is because of stunning outdoor space that overlooks Lancaster's historic Castle and Priory Church, making it a perfect spot for a first date.
Whaletail's
Whaletail's is a vegetarian and organic café located in the heart of Lancaster. It's one of the few places in the city that offers a fully vegetarian menu (with many vegan options as well). What we really love about this place is the outdoor seating area; it offers a tranquil oasis away from the hustle and bustle of the city, making it a great place to relax and enjoy lunch (or a fresh smoothie) with your friends from your uni halls. We love the cafe's famous "Buddha Bowl" and freshly made juices, perfect for a post-lecture pick-me-up.
Cafe Dolce
Are your parents visiting for the day? We recommend taking them to Cafe Dolce as it is the perfect spot to enjoy an afternoon tea outside in Lancaster. With its charming outdoor seating area, you can take in the fresh air and sunshine while savouring delectable treats and a cuppa.
The cafe's peaceful ambience and picturesque surroundings make it an idyllic place to unwind and escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
After you’ve finished dining why not visit our Lancaster student accommodation, Bailrigg Student Living, and take a tour? Lancaster University is right on our doorstep, we have an onsite cinema and even a gym for you to use included in your rent! Contact us to find out more!
