Going all out: Tips to make the most out of your outdoor space this summer

Dawn Elizabeth Rudd from the Berkeley Inns Group, finalists in the ‘Best Pub Beer Garden Awards 2021’ – alongside PPL PRS, the organisation responsible for issuing TheMusicLicence for businesses who use music – share their thoughts on how to create the perfect space this summer and how to get the most out of the weeks ahead.

Be unique

A garden that stands out is one that is unique, so it’s important to remember your branding and as much as possible, stick to a theme.  Creating continuity amongst your garden décor, for example, can help to distinguish your business, just like the unique garden rooms at the Berkeley Inns.  You may even decide to host regular live music events or themed food nights. Pizza and prosecco anyone?

Bring the inside out

Creating a great outdoor space is just the same as creating a great indoor one, which means the same careful consideration should go into the décor, atmosphere and service. Playing music, for instance, can be important to garden areas and can be an essential part of the ambience. It can help to lift the mood for staff, as well as your customers and can help to create a space people enjoy.  As Dawn explains, “we have always recognised the fundamental importance of music within our venues it is an essential part of the ambience…whatever the weather the mood is lifted by music, a friendly face with a drink in hand.  People, food and music in a traditional country pub, what really could be more pleasurable than that?”

Keep it simple

As straightforward as it sounds, a garden that provides excellent food and drink facilities should never fail to impress so, whatever your budget, it is important to keep it simple. Collaborating with your local food and drink suppliers is an excellent way to hosting garden events for your local community and provides excellent revenues for everyone, particularly the rural economy.

Be creative

A welcoming and uplifting outdoor area doesn’t necessarily have to be elaborate or expensive. In fact, utilising your existing space and features can be one of the best ways to get the most out of your garden, whilst also ensuring you retain a unique and appealing feel. Looking at shelter, accessibility, utilising buildings, and outdoor structures could help you maximise your space. From turning an outbuilding into a bar, a grass patch into a patio or a decking into a dining area.

These are just a selection of hints and tips about how to best utilise your space this summer and get the most out of the good weather ahead.

For more information about how to enhance the atmosphere and create an outdoor space your customers enjoy visit pplprs.co.uk/success-stories/the-berkeley-inns