The sunshine makes a rare appearance over Birmingham skies, so when it does turn up knowing the crowning destinations for a summer of afternoon basking with refreshing drink in hand, is imperative. Our top four destinations for that quintessential, al fresco refreshment means you’ll definitely be making the most of the summer sun.

The Church
The perfect place to worship (the sun) in the heart of the distinguished jewellery quarter The Church, whose soulful vibe was founded in 1840, has clearly stood the test of time. More recently it has taken a turn in a more intriguing direction to become Birmingham’s hub for the Soul Food Project serving up their own twists on traditional New Orleans’ food, true Louisiana style. Alongside their standout menu, The Church’s’ quirky list of cocktails and extensive directory of liquid refreshments make for the perfect Louisiana Jambalaya apertif. The rooftop terrace overlooking the exquisite architecture of the jewellery quarter offers an atmospheric setting to take in the cool Louisiana vibes.
The Church, 22 Great Hampton Street, Birmingham, B18 6AQ. Tel: 0121 448 3866
www.churchjq.co.uk

The Jekyll and Hyde
Gorgeous gin parlour and cocktail bar extraordinaire (see our Birmingham’s Quirkiest Cocktail Spots feature here) the Jekyll and Hyde is beautifully embellished with Alice and Wonderland murals and its curious bespoke interior is a a real throwback to the Victorian era, with plush velvet upholstery, dark wooden furnishings and old school patterned carpet. But along with their mouth-watering array of cocktails and army of over 90 gins, this place offers a further surprise in the form of a snug little suntrap hidden away at the back of the bar to fulfil all your sweet summer fantasies. Fall down the rabbit hole and discover this eccentric wonderland.
The Jekyll and Hyde, 28 Steelhouse Ln, City Centre, Birmingham B4 6BJ.Tel: 0121 236 0345

www.thejekyllandhyde.co.uk

The Lord Clifden
The Lord Clifden isn’t shy of success, with several awards under its belt a committed regular crowd and the effortless cool that the big chains can only ever dream of, it captures the hearts of locals and visitors alike. Known for their interesting collection of street art, from Banksy to Nick Walker, it stands true to its claim that they are a free house with a difference. Gorgeous plants and artwork scale the high colourful walls and The Lord Clifton is undoubtedly one of the best beer gardens Birmingham has to offer. A suave sanctuary from the hustle and bustle of the city their free Friday Great Outdoors nights are a bit of an institution. See our feature here
www.thelordclifden.com/the-great-outdoors-spring-sessions-2016/

The New Inn
Venture into the bustling little ‘burb of Harbourne to find this big shot in the al fresco drinks scene. The New Inn has much to offer including separate lunch and dinner menus as well as five cask ales, bottled beer from across the globe and of course a sparkling array of cocktails which can be enjoyed for a fraction of the price during happy hour. The New Inn’s family friendly focus and one the of biggest beer gardens in Birmingham makes it a shoe-in for sunlit socialising and sundown drinks.
www.newinnharborne.co.uk

Some other outdoor venues of serious note include:
The Rainbow’s roof garden see our feature here
The Old Crown’s outdoor bar, see our feature here
The Prince Of Wales in Moseley with its extensive gardens full of fun from Mo Tiki cocktail bar and ‘beach’ to the Shed du Vin. www.theprincemoseley.co.uk
Canalside drinking down in Brindley Place and Gas Street Basin.
And for the ultimate in upmarket al fresco head to Marco Pierre White’s at The Cube. www.mpwrestaurants.co.uk

Also see our Pick of Outdoors Summer Fun feature: here