The summer months bring an expectancy to make the most of the warm weather before the return of autumn.
We’re only now at the start of June, but before you know it we’ll be knocking on the door of September.
For this reason it’s important to enjoy summer while it’s here - and embracing a bit of Mediterranean culture is a great way to do so.
Al fresco dining has increased in popularity over recent years as bars and restaurants look to improve their customer experience.
For some reason or other, enjoying a meal outdoors on a warm summer evening can make the food taste even better.
Nottinghamshire’s picturesque market towns are ideal for trying a bit of al fresco dining this summer, so why not give it a whirl.
We’ve chosen seven quaint Nottinghamshire market towns that offer the best al fresco dining for summer 2025.
1. Newark-on-Trent
With the River Trent running through it, the beautiful Newark-on-Trent is a great place to enjoy al fresco dining this summer. According to TripAdvisor, the top restaurant with outdoor seating is Bistro No17. | Billy Wilson Photo: Billy Wilson
2. West Bridgford
With its cosy pubs and quaint neighbourhoods, West Bridgford is a top option for al fresco dining. The best place to eat outside according TripAdvisor is La Storia. | Chris Morgan Photo: Chris Morgan
3. Southwell
Southwell town centre is a good starting point when it comes to trying al fresco dining this summer. The best places in the town to embrace the Mediterranean lifestyle, according to Tripadvisor, is the suitably-named Alfresco Caffe. | Billy Wilson Photo: Billy Wilson
4. Cotgrave
Cotgrave might not be the obvious choice when it comes to al fresco dining, but the town has plenty to offer on that front. The top-rated place to eat outside in Cotgrave is pizza restaurant Strezza, according to TripAdvisor. | AMR Photo: AMR