Britain’s Best Beer Gardens for Summer Sipping
Beer Gardens | Country Pubs | Countryside | Dog Friendly | Featured | Pub Accommodation | Posted 2025.06.16
Now that we can finally enjoy a cold pint of bitter or a glass of something in pub gardens, we couldn’t help revisit some of our favourite pubs that have glorious outdoor spaces – perfect for al fresco dining and catching up with friends.
The Old Mill, Hordle, Hampshire
Tucked away in the village of Hordle in Hampshire, The Old Mill is just minutes from the New Forest and the South Coast. Surrounded by picturesque grounds and gardens, this pub is the perfect place to relax with family and friends and enjoy delicious homemade food. The terrace overlooks the river, which makes it a peaceful haven on a warm summer’s day.
The Waterhead Inn – Ambleside, Cumbria
The Waterhead Inn in Ambleside, Cumbria, offers a warm welcome in the heart of the Lake District, just moments from the shores of Lake Windermere. This charming pub combines traditional character with stylish, modern touches — ideal for walkers, couples, and those seeking a scenic escape. One of its standout features is the lakeside beer garden, where you can enjoy a pint with uninterrupted views across the water. It’s the perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploring the fells, with local ales, delicious food, and breathtaking surroundings.
The Cockhaven Arms – Bishopsteignton, Devon
The Cockhaven Arms in Bishopsteignton, Devon is a welcoming pub with bags of character and stunning views across the Teign Estuary. Its spacious beer garden is the perfect spot to soak up the sunshine with a locally brewed pint in hand. Surrounded by rolling countryside and sea air, it’s an ideal place to relax after a day exploring South Devon. With cosy rooms and hearty food, this pub makes a great base for a peaceful coastal escape.
The Pontcanna Inn – Cardiff, Glamorgan
Situated in Cardiff, The Pontcanna Inn makes for a fabulous city-break pub. It’s garden terrace has a cool city vibe with lined up benches and colourful tables and chairs. Whether you’re staying for the weekend or simply planning on meeting friends for the evening, The Pontcanna Inn has a sociable and relaxed atmosphere.
The Crown – Stoke-by-Nayland, Colchester
Named the “County Dining Pub of the Year 2020” by the Good Pub Guide, the Crown is a charming inn nestled in the village of Stoke by Nayland. The pub has a garden terrace, which overlooks the rolling meadows of Dedham Vale – a wonderful place to unwind and enjoy a meal with the whole family.
Flower Pot Hotel – Henley-on-Thames, Oxfordshire
The Flower Pot in Henley-on-Thames is a charming riverside pub known for its characterful interiors, hearty food, and warm hospitality. Surrounded by scenic Oxfordshire countryside, it’s a favourite with walkers, cyclists, and those looking for a peaceful pint by the water. The spacious beer garden is one of its highlights — a perfect spot to unwind with a drink, soak up the sunshine, and watch the world go by.
The Lion Inn – Winchcombe, Gloucestershire
The Lion Inn is a 15th century gem situated amongst Cotswold stone cottages, tea rooms, and antique shops. Their nine beautifully refurbished bedrooms combine contemporary design with cosy charm. Book this picture-perfect retreat and enjoy al fresco drinks in the quintessentially English courtyard garden.
Craigdarroch Hotel – Loch Ness, Scotland
The Craigdarroch Hotel sits majestically on the south side of Loch Ness in the pretty village of Foyers, in the heart of the Scottish Highlands. The pub is independently owned, located in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and has ten traditional en-suite bedrooms with loch or woodland views.
The Drummond at Albury, Surrey
Nestled in the Surrey Hills, The Drummond at Albury offers a tranquil riverside beer garden that’s perfect for long summer afternoons. Surrounded by greenery and the gentle flow of the Tillingbourne River, it’s a picturesque spot to unwind with a pint or a bite to eat.
The Griffin Inn, Fletching, East Sussex
The Griffin Inn boasts one of the most scenic beer gardens in the country, with sweeping views across the South Downs. This elevated garden setting combines rustic charm with breathtaking countryside vistas—ideal for alfresco dining or soaking up the sunshine.
The Pheasant Hotel, Kelling, Norfolk
Tucked within beautifully maintained grounds, The Pheasant Hotel’s outdoor space offers a peaceful and elegant beer garden setting. Whether enjoying a quiet drink or relaxing after a walk along the coast, it’s a serene place to enjoy Norfolk’s fresh air.
The Ship at Dunwich, Suffolk
Just a stone’s throw from the beach, The Ship at Dunwich’s beer garden captures the best of coastal charm. Sheltered and full of character, it’s a wonderful spot to enjoy local ales and sea air, especially after exploring the Dunwich Heath.
The Royal Inn, Portishead, Somerset
Overlooking the Bristol Channel, The Royal Inn’s beer garden offers beautiful waterside views and stunning sunsets. With ample space and a relaxed seaside vibe, it’s a great place for families and friends to gather and enjoy the sea breeze.
The Maynard, Grindleford, Derbyshire
Set within the Peak District, The Maynard’s beer garden offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys. With its elevated position and peaceful countryside setting, it’s the perfect place to recharge after a local walk or hike.
Written by Lucille Skinner
Social Media Assistant