ON a beautiful summer’s day there really can be nothing better than lunch on a manicured lawn, overlooking the sea.

The Hotel Miramar’s Ocean Bar and Terrace offers meals to suit a range of appetites, whether it’s a snack, or a larger lunch you are after, as well as several afternoon tea packages.

Known for its beautifully landscaped gardens, the hotel has plenty of seating outside, making it the perfect spot for a quintessentially British al fresco lunch.

The menu is in keeping with this theme, offering a range of light bites such as homemade soup, a cheese platter or Bloody Mary smoked salmon and prawn platter, as well as toasted paninis, baguettes, sandwiches and jacket potatoes.

There are also several larger meals to choose from, including pasta and fish dishes.

I chose a cheese and bacon burger (£10.95), while my friend opted for the tempura prawns (£9.95).

We enjoyed the view, and a glass of wine, while our food was freshly cooked.

Both dishes were stylishly presented and both accompanied by chips and a salad garnish.

The burger was a generous size and served in a fresh ciabatta roll. The generous helping of cheese made for a flavoursome dish and the accompanying chips were cooked to perfection.

My friend’s prawns were pleasingly chunky and coated in an ultra light, crispy batter, while the chips were presented in an amusing Jenga style tower!

The dish was accompanied with a deliciously creamy tartar sauce and was the perfect choice for a light lunch.

For those wanting something even lighter, there are a range of afternoon tea options (from £26.50 for two), including sandwiches, scones and pastries, tea or coffee.

Either Champagne or Pimms can also be added, at an additional cost.

We sampled a couple of the pastries on offer, including a fruit tart, meringue and profiteroles, which were delightfully decadent, but not too filling.

Whether it’s a light lunch with friends or a spot of afternoon tea, the Miramar’s Ocean Bar and Terrace really is the perfect summer dining location.

Enjoy live music and one of the best views in town of the 2013 Bournemouth Air Festival Night Air Extravaganza at the Hotel Miramar.

The Daryl Ford Trio provide live music on the terrace from 6.30pm on Thursday August 29 and on Friday August 30, entertainment is from Swing Revival. 01202 556581, miramar-bournemouth.com