There’s something unmistakably British about a pint in a pub garden. Rain or shine (though preferably shine), there’s no better place to be when the sun peeks out. In fact, research* shows the pub garden is the UK’s favourite place for a pint – and we couldn’t agree more.
With the Mayor of London launching a £300,000 fund to support more al fresco dining across the capital, it’s clear that outdoor space is becoming a bigger part of the hospitality picture – not just for a sunny day, but for longer-term strategy.
At Polaris Elements, we work with hospitality venues large and small, helping them to make the most of every inch of their business. Whether you’ve got an expansive garden or just a few pavement tables, here’s how to turn your outdoor space into a money-maker this summer and keep the tills ringing well into autumn.
Why Beer Gardens Work
A well-run beer garden offers more than just fresh air. It boosts footfall, increases dwell time, appeals to families and dog lovers, and helps venues maximise their covers without the need for costly refurbishments or expansions. Most importantly, it creates an experience – the kind guests return to and tell their friends about.
But while it’s easy to open the doors and hope for the best, success lies in the details: logistics, layout, operations, and the tech that supports it all.
Rethinking Outdoor Operations
One of the biggest challenges with a busy beer garden is managing service efficiently. Long wait times, staff darting in and out with trays, and backlogs at the till can quickly turn a sunny opportunity into a stressful shift.
Staffing costs are higher than ever, and in many cases, it’s time to rethink the traditional model of dedicated waiters per section. Instead, you could consider a more fluid team structure. Consider dedicated order-takers who roam the garden with the tools to take and close orders on the spot, supported by food and drink runners who keep service moving efficiently.
This model could not only helps reduce pressure on staff, but also allows you to serve more customers. The result? Faster service, happier guests, and a team that’s more productive and less stretched.
Making the Season Last
While we might be midway through summer when this lands on your doorstep, the outdoor opportunity doesn’t need to end with the August Bank Holiday.
We’re big advocates for extending beer garden life well into the autumn months and beyond. With the right touches, your outdoor area can stay open and profitable long after the sun has set (literally and figuratively) on summer.
That could mean investing in a few simple additions such as canopies, heaters, or lighting to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Consider offering blankets, updating your drinks menu with hot cocktails, or launching theme nights to give customers a reason to brave the chill.
A bit of imagination goes a long way: Oktoberfest events, outdoor quiz nights, and “firepit Fridays” can all drive traffic, even on darker evenings.
No Garden? No Problem.
Even the smallest outdoor space can be transformed into a characterful, revenue-driving extension of your pub. Think creatively: a few wooden barrels, potted plants, and well-placed lighting can elevate a smoking area or side yard into a proper outdoor experience.
Ensure the branding and atmosphere outside match your interior – consistency helps with customer expectations and social media-worthy moments. The goal is to make every guest feel like they’re getting the full experience, wherever they choose to sit.
Technology to Support Your Team
So, where does tech come into this? Quite simply, it’s the difference between a beer garden that feels like an asset and one that feels like a hassle.
At Polaris, we’ve developed two standout products that are helping pubs and bars make outdoor service slicker, faster, and more profitable – without needing to double your headcount.
First up is mPay: our award-winning all-in-one mobile POS and payment device.
With mPay, your staff can take orders and payments at the table, on the spot. No dashing back and forth to the bar or till, no scribbled notes or lost dockets. It streamlines the whole process, speeds up service, and gives your team more time to focus on guests.
Then there’s Menu Connect: our order and pay at table platform. With no app to download, guests simply scan a code, browse your menu, place their order, and pay – all from their own phone. It’s an easy win for busy venues, especially when you’re short on staff. Menu Connect helps reduce queues, boost average spend, and give customers more control.
Together, these tools take the stress out of outdoor service, so you and your team can focus on what matters: creating a great experience, rain or shine.
Raising a Glass to Outdoor Success
From sunny afternoons to crisp autumn evenings, your beer garden can be one of your best business assets. With a little planning, the right staffing model, and the right tech in hand, you can turn your outdoor space into a revenue-generating powerhouse – and keep customers coming back for more.
Cheers!
For more information about mPay, Menu Connect, and how Polaris can help support your outdoor service, visit www.polaris-elements.co.uk
*CAMRA 2019 Cheers to beer (gardens)! – CAMRA – The Campaign for Real Ale
