BEDFORDSHIRE BUCKINGHAMSHIRE BERKSHIRE CAMBRIDGESHIRE CORNWALL DERBYSHIRE DEVON DORSET ESSEX GLOUCESTERSHIRE HAMPSHIRE ISLE OF WIGHT HERTFORDSHIRE KENT LEICESTERSHIRE NORFOLK NORTHAMPTONSHIRE NOTTINGHAMSHIRE OXFORDSHIRE RUTLAND SOMERSET SUFFOLK SURREY SUSSEX WARWICKSHIRE WEST MIDLANDS WILTSHIRE WORCESTERSHIRE

OXFORDSHIRE

Double Red Duke, Bampton

Like your pub garden with a touch of elegance? For an al fresco lunch, this chic hotel boasts an impressive ‘pub grub’ menu with dishes such as chicken, grilled oyster mushroom and mash or chargrilled sourdough and smoked whipped lardo, plus a seasonal cocktail menu. Add in the idyllic Cotswolds backdrop, the sailor-chic umbrellas and pretty gardens and what’s not to love?

The Maytime Inn, Asthall

Pair your wood-fired pizza with amazing views of the Cotswolds hills while the kids blow off steam at this rustic pub with a walled garden, terrace and outdoor bar. The menu offers seasonal staples and pub classics (think everything from lamb loin with mash to pan-fried cod and mussels with veg), plus an artisan gin menu and wine from Château Léoube, the pub’s sister estate vineyard in Provence. Oui oui!

Sir Charles Napier, Chinnor Hill 

A local favourite (fans include Michelin-starred chef Raymond Blanc, just saying), this elegant Chinnor spot boasts a stunning flowering garden, vine-covered terrace and a hearty menu that’s more restaurant than pub. The Sunday roast alone is worth a visit.

Boxing Hare, Swerford

Nestled between Chipping Norton and Great Tew, this Cotswolds gastro-pub is a popular local haunt, and it’s no surprise since the locally-sourced seasonal menu has everything from 70-day dry aged beef to winter mushroom risotto, truffle, rocket and parmesan. The lovely garden lives up to the menu’s standards, with stunning views of the countryside and plenty of space for the kids to roam.

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BUCKINGHAMSHIRE

The Black Boy, Oving

How’s this for sweeping views? Hidden in the Bucks countryside, this cosy pub in the pretty village of Oving is a must-visit for their excellently-placed garden overlooking the Chilterns. The seasonal menu has all the classics (pizza, pies, pub faves like fish and chips et al) and the village makes for a lovely sunset stroll after a glass or two from the impressive vino list.

The Pointer, Brill 

With its tranquil village location, this pub with boutique hotel rooms is a great staycation gem with a menu that specialises in seafood; think queenie scallops, oysters, and battered haddock (freshly caught and whipped up by the chefs on the same day). Enjoy the pub’s own UK-distilled Brill Gin in the tucked-away gardens with plenty of space for pets and kids, before heading out on one of the many circular walks in the pretty locale.

The Nags Head, Great Missenden

With Bib Gourmand food and great service, this Chilterns charmer is an easy choice for a lovely lunch and the spacious garden is a bonus for a sunny day. There’s plenty of room for kids to play around and there’s lots of local fun nearby including the Roald Dahl Museum. Best of all, you can book a tipi if you’re after an extra-cool al fresco experience.

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DEVON

The Cary Arms & Spa, Babbacombe

A coastal must-see on the English Riviera, and surely one of the best places to tuck into freshly-caught seafood this side of the Med. The Cary Arms’ pub garden is less lawns and flowers, and more rocky palms and seal-spotting – a sea-facing terrace with stunning views over Babbacombe Bay. It’s the kind of place to arrive by boat if you can, knock back an Aperol Spritz and pretend you’re on the Amalfi coast, baby!

The Rugglestone Inn, Widecombe in the Moor

Ah, breathe that fresh Dartmoor air! The Rugglestone Inn is an iconic (if teeny) old pub with gorgeous beer garden you get to via a little bridge over a shallow stream, where kids love to play. Expect home-cooked food, real ales and organic and local wine, a friendly atmos (kids and dogs on leads welcome) and cute roaming chickens. The menu changes regularly and should you want to make a stay of it, there’s their two-bedroom Rugglestone Cottage nearby where you can be really lazy and have dinners delivered to your door. Great for walkers.

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BERKSHIRE

The Royal Oak, Yattendon

The Royal Oak in Yattendon is a stonking country pub with one of the loveliest gardens in the county. Expect the warmest of welcomes from Rob and his team. Grab a table or sofa, soak up the rays and eat and drink on repeat. Once perched, you’ll never want to leave.

The Belgian Arms, Holyport

Table with a view, madam? When it looks this pretty, it would be rude not to. The Belgian Arms in Holyport is set back from the village green with a great view of the pond. It’s a relaxed pub with a decent wine and beer list, and if you fancy a bite, the food has a really good rep – seasonal, reasonably priced and delicious. Fuss-free but fabulous.

The Great Shefford, Great Shefford

Riverside location. Check. Top notch chef who cut his culinary chops with Rick Stein. Check. Seriously good gastropub menu. Check. The Great Shefford pub is an under-the-radar foodie destination that ticks all the boxes. It’s perched right next to the River Lambourn, with a lovely terrace garden and outdoor kitchen that’s rural heaven when the sun shines.

The Greene Oak, Windsor

Looking for a place to perch and enjoy outdoor dining where the food is the star of the show? Head to The Greene Oak on the outskirts of Windsor. This modern inn is gastropub paradise with a lovely garden and funky horsebox tables on the terrace for something a bit different. The atmosphere is relaxed, the food is unpretentious with pizazz – and we would expect nothing less from owners James Lyon Shaw and Jamie Dobbin, who met while working at The Ivy in London. Menus use the best of the British larder and offer a mouth-watering mix of dishes.

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HAMPSHIRE

The Old Mill, Hordle, Lymington

A converted 400-year-old mill set alongside the Avon River, The Old Mill is a pretty pub-with-rooms close to the south coast and the beautiful New Forest National Park. With good food, a dedicated ‘social drinking’ menu and a large terrace overlooking three tranquil acres, it’s a popular local spot – but there’s always space for thirsty visitors.

The Mayfly, Fullerton

Take a seat beside the tranquil River Test, wave to the passing ducks and look out for splashing trout. Located near Stockbridge, close to the John Lewis Partnership’s Leckford Estate and Longstock Park Water Gardens, The Mayfly’s picturesque weirside pub garden is also next to some of Hampshire’s finest fly-fishing spots, walking and cycling routes – and a pretty idyllic spot for a cold G&T. Little wonder that, in 2022, it won the Griffin Trophy, the annual competition between Fuller’s 380+ pubs, hotels and inns.

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ISLE OF WIGHT

The George, Yarmouth

Close to Yarmouth’s pier and castle, just yards from the Lymington ferry terminal, The George Hotel also has it own Beach Club cocktail bar right at the water’s edge. Soak up the rosé and Mermaid gin cocktails in the gorgeous garden and wave to the passing yachts.

The Spyglass Inn, Ventnor

Ahoy! Right on the water’s edge in Ventnor Bay, The Spyglass Inn has the ultimate panoramic sea view right over the English Channel. Tables in the pub garden are first come, first served, but if you snag one, there’s few better spots to enjoy a seafood supper, glass of something chilled and a glorious Isle of Wight sunset.

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HERTFORDSHIRE

The Bull, Watton-at-Stone

This 15th century pub is full of history, from its priest-hole inglenook fireplace to the rustic charm that it still exudes today. As well as the lovely south-facing garden (complete with firepit), and patio with heated terrace, there are six al fresco Cow Shed dining pods, decorated in a summery Moroccan style. They can be pre-booked for up to six people and personalised to your every need (think Bluetooth music connection, heating for chilly evenings and a service app so you don’t even need to go up to the bar to order). I’m hoping you don’t have to moo for your supper though!

The Fox and Hounds, Barley

Bought out by two local childhood mates, this 17th century gem underwent a huge overhaul in 2018 to become a firm local favourite, with creative dishes cooked up by chef Brett Barnes. On the border of Herts and Cambs, you’ll find its menu packed with locally-sourced produce from across the counties, as well as guest ales, local spirits and an extensive wine list. The attractive patio garden with raised beds and covered section is the cherry on the cake for the spring/summer months, and can be booked out for events, too.

The Sword Inn Hand, near Buntingford

The village location of this 14th century free house, just a mile south of Buntingford in Westmill, couldn’t get much more picturesque, with its rows of pretty cottages and views of the local church and open countryside. When the weather warms up, this really comes into its own as the pub boasts over an acre of land, including mature landscaped gardens and not one, but two pretty patios – the first shaded by a wisteria and grapevine canopy to keep your rosé cool in the midday sun, and the second with parasol-covered seating. Or you can take a pew on the relaxed pub benches in the rear garden to gaze across to rolling fields as you savour your Sunday roast. Choices, choices.

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BEDFORDSHIRE

The Pheasant, Bedford

This ‘proper’ pub (think cosy nooks, craft beers and local brews) reopened last spring under new management after a complete overhaul, which involved landscaping the front terrace. It’s now a spacious and inviting area with circular bench seating for groups as well as smaller, intimate tables, plus purpose-built covered structures with comfy chairs for shade seekers. It’s also dog-friendly and kids eat free over the school hols – winner, winner, pub dinner!

The Plough, Bolnhurst

With its low beams, character features and open kitchen, The Plough in the North Beds Wolds is seriously inviting and atmospheric during the winter. But come the summer months, it’s got more up its sleeve – an idyllic garden part-covered with shady greenery and attractive canopies, with deck chair seating and a babbling brook running alongside. It also plays host to a small but perfectly formed programme of events through the year, including al fresco theatre (catch Much Ado about Nothing here in June with pre and post-theatre dinner options) and the annual jazz BBQ. There’s also a kitchen garden which supplies the pub with homegrown veg. Rural bliss.

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NORTHAMPTONSHIRE

The Falcon Inn, Fotheringhay

Not far from the gorgeous market town of Oundle, in the peaceful and historic village of Fotheringhay, The Falcon Inn is just a short walk from Fotheringhay Castle mound where Mary Queen of Scots famously lost her head. The Falcon is a real foodie pub, where excellent, locally-sourced ingredients are served with attention to detail, and in the summer they do amazing BBQ and wood-fired pizza nights in the beautiful enclosed garden. If you’re looking for somewhere really special for a breakout destination, put it on your list.

The Tollemache Arms, Harrington

This pretty and very welcoming thatched inn, fondly known as The Tolly, is defo one for the gin lovers. The house gin, Warners, is produced just 200 yards away, so book in for one of their fantastically tipsy distillery tours while you’re here then get yourself a G&T and sit in this pretty pub garden knowing that your tipple is truly local – and probably being distilled as you sip. Cheers!

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SURREY

José Pizarro The Swan Inn, Esher

A courtyard terrace with large booths, a fire pit and authentic Spanish food from the Godfather of Spanish food himself. During the summer, the barbecues are fired up at José Pizarro’s Swan Inn for a true taste of grilled tapas classics alfresco. Dogs and puppies are also welcome.

The Swan Inn, Chiddingfold

An idyllic back garden, set over three levels, the terraced garden at The Swan is like secret hideaway and the perfect spot to enjoy a cool cocktail, a pint or enjoy lunch or dinner al fresco. Food is good pub classics, and with 11 stylish boutique bedrooms, you can pack a suitcase and stay the night.

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SOMERSET

The Packhorse, South Stoke, near Bath

Winner of Best Destination Pub in the Somerset & Dorset Muddy Awards 2022, a few years ago The Packhorse was destined to become residential/office space before the locals stepped in to save and restore it (hurrah!). These days it’s renowned for its atmosphere, warm welcome, great food and lovely walks all around – if you can drag yourself away from the gorgeous garden. Reclaimed by hundreds of volunteers under the guidance of professional landscaper Tom Chapman, it’s planted with over 200 species.

The Cotley Inn, Wambrook, near Chard

This cut-above village pub with rooms nestled in the Blackdown Hills is popular with locals and visitors alike, and has won accolades for its super locally-produced food. AA rosette 2022, Top 50 Gastropub 2022, Muddy Awards finalist 2022, Taste of the West Gold 20/21… the awards just keep on coming. In the spring and summer, eat on the suntrap terrace and in the large and lovely gardens, where last summer they held Cotley Fest (above). Bliss.

The Swan, Wedmore

Nosh on beautiful food in a garden with sunny terrace and lawn to match at this laid-back village pub with rooms, on the edge of the Somerset Levels. Championing local produce, and with breads and cakes baked daily, the food is always inventive, never poncy. Read our interview with head chef Sam Sperring-Trendl.

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DORSET

The Scott Arms, Kingston, near Corfe Castle

Admire the wonderful views of Purbeck Hills and the iconic Corfe Castle (very handily, there’s a telescope for close ups) from the pub’s extensive garden. Scoff pub grub seven days a week and Caribbean cuisine with reggae grooves (co-owner Nicky is from Jamaica), from the Jerk Shak, at weekends from Easter onwards.

The New Inn, Cerne Abbas

This former 16th century coaching house with rooms, in one of Dorset’s prettiest villages, has a large walled garden with fruit trees and views of the village rooftops, and enticing Modern British menus. Don’t forget to take a peep at the ancient naked man carved into the chalk hillside above the village while you’re there.

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KENT

The Five Bells, Brabourne

If you’re after a pub that ticks all the boxes then you can’t go far wrong with this rural gem. A deeply atmospheric 16th century country inn, set amidst the rolling North Downs, that was once frequented by travellers following the Pilgrims Way between London, Canterbury and France. Today’s visitors will find a welcoming vibe, excellent food and four eclectic bedrooms. And best of all for enjoying summer sunshine, outside you’ll find a gorgeous beer garden, complete with its own bar and where they host regular entertainment and food events.

George & Dragon, Chipstead

In this pretty corner of Kent with walks aplenty nearby, you’ll find a 16th century pub full of character and cosy corners, with a garden area for outside drinks and dining and an ever-changing, and excellently executed, menu. Plus, it’s child-friendly – there’s a brilliant kids’ deal (just £9.95 for 3 courses!) and a play area in the pretty garden. Not huge, but a well-designed space where you can eat in style on the tables nestled among the plants, with the added benefit of heat lamps and fairy lights for those cooler evenings.

The Tiger Inn, Stowting

A hidden gem of a country pub – complete with stylish interiors comprising wooden beams and cosy nooks – all nestled in a picturesque village between Ashford and Folkestone. Choose from classic local beer-battered fish with triple cooked chips and pea purée or game pie with champ potato, braised savoy cabbage and rich gravy – if you’re not plumping for the ever-popular roasts, of course. With a funky outdoor area that’s quirky, cool and comfy all at the same time, there’s a lot to love about this dining destination.

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SUSSEX

Dorset Arms, Withyham

Inside. Outside. Half and half. You get it all at this village pub that dates back to the 16th century with a beautiful outside space, garden room with retractable roof and shhhh, secret garden lodges available to hire. On selected dates, the outdoor pizza oven is fired up to give you a slice of that holidaying-in-Italy feeling. The menu was masterminded for carnivores with an emphasis on showcasing the finest local food from The Buckhurst Estate as well as prioritising seasonal, organic and local produce. Roasts are offered on Sundays and the wider menu includes fish, oysters and Sussex cheeses. Best of all, it’s on the 100 Acre Wood from Winnie the Pooh, making it the perfect spot for a weekend away or family break.

Royal Oak, Midhurst

This destination pub with posh grub ticks all the boxes. It’s dog- and kid-friendly, popular with locals, walkers and riders (wheels and hoof variety!), but also attracts people who come just for the food, and rightly so! The menu is both high-end and well curated – choose from from favourites like fish and chips and steaks to pan-fried hake and Lebanese lamb. Now for the best bit: it’s got a huge garden at the front that hosts a cool space with its own bar and music lounge vibes. There’s also an outdoor stretch tent, cosy enough for spring showers, and in sunny weather the sliding doors open onto the beer garden.

The Griffin, Fletching

A former Muddy Awards finalist, The Griffin has a garden so big it’s nicknamed the Serengeti. They may not promise roaming wildebeest but the two acres are backed by a fabulous view of the South Downs and National Trust property Sheffield Park. There’s an outdoor bar (Pimm’s, anyone?) and we’ve only a few more months to wait until high summer when they make full use of the built-in barbecue and wood oven.

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GLOUCESTERSHIRE

The Fleet Inn, Tewkesbury

This riverside pub dating back to the 1800s has a huge beer garden and heated pergola terrace – order your spritz and sip it to stunning views out over the River Avon. On the menu is locally-sourced produce, seasonal ingredients, and solid pub classics, while outside they serve up wood-fired pizza and street food-inspired treats from the open kitchen. Arrive in style on one of the river boats, as the pub has its very own private dock allowing you to sashay in like a rockstar.

The Bathurst Arms, North Cerney

Fancy a dose of idyllic riverside sipping and scoffing? Head to the Bathurst Arms, one of the most chilled and scenic beer gardens in the Cotswolds. Look one way and you have a view of the babbling Rover Churn with its resident ducks swimming past, look the other way and bask in the backdrop of the gorgeously candy-coloured pub itself. We love evenings spent in the garden’s new bohemian outdoor tipi too, a cosy, fairy-lit garden grotto that’s perfect for spring nights.

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WORCESTERSHIRE

The Fleece Inn, Breforton

You’d be hard pushed to find a more quirky and fairytale hangout in Worcs than the beer orchard at The Fleece Inn (Worcestershire Pub of the Year 2019). Owned by the National Trust, with its wonky 15th century timbers and rustic stone mushrooms dotted around, this hostelry garden is a lovely place to while away the hours on one of the wooden benches. Covered in beautiful blossom at this time of year, there is a little plum tree orchard, and you can even bring your pooch along to meet the resident pub dog.

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SUFFOLK

The Westleton Crown, Westleton

The Westleton Crown has a lovely conservatory restaurant, looking out onto an extensive garden that slopes up a slight hill, with nooks and crannies and shady spots. The terrace also has a grill area, and the pub runs BBQs regularly in the summer. Food is locally sourced and high quality, having been awarded 2 AA Rosettes, but isn’t faffy – you’ll get home-baked warm bread on the table, a great standard of fresh fish, steaks and rollicking good roasts. You can also make a weekend of it and stay in one of the 34 bedrooms, and dogs are welcome in both the bar and many of the bedrooms.

The Brewers, Rattlesden

Envy the residents of Rattlesden because their village pub is a rather special one. Inside it’s exactly what you’d hope from a Suffolk pub – all cosy beams, a roaring fire and characterful exposed brick walls. In summer though this pub is particularly special thanks to its charming courtyard garden full of twinkling festoon lights. In fact, the garden is such a heavenly space to while away an afternoon or evening that it was named as one of the UK’s prettiest pub gardens by The Times, and as the true local experts here at Muddy Stilettos we wholeheartedly agree!

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CAMBRIDGESHIRE

The Tickell Arms, Whittlesford

The Tickell Arms doesn’t just have one garden, it has two, and both are delightful. Neither garden is huge, but what they lack in acreage they certainly make up for in style. Eating a meal in the rose garden with its huge pond and fountain tinkling away, and tables tucked away in secret nooks surrounded by lavender is completely magical, especially on balmy summer nights as the sun sets. On the other side of the pub is a more traditional beer garden with pergola and wooden benches, while out the front of the blue-hued beauty are yet more dining tables for al fresco drinks.

The Black Horse, Elton

The Black Horse in the beautiful village of Elton, close to the Northants border a few miles from Oundle, has a huge and stunning open gardens with a patio area, BBQ shack, sprawling lawn (big enough for kids to play footie or cricket!) and an events marquee. Pitch up for an afternoon of sunshine here and you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to the Cotswolds, thanks to the gorgeous honey-coloured stone used in this area. The pub is well-known for its fabulous roast, plus there’s a kids menu and as well as pub classics and lighter bites for summer.

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RUTLAND

The Olive Branch, Clipsham

Three former farming cottage were lovingly restored by Sean Hope, Ben Jones and Marcus Welford way back in 1999 and now form an award-winning pub set in a picture-postcard Rutland village. The Olive Branch has a large well-maintained front garden overlooking the quiet village and is definitely worth a visit, especially in the warmer months when you can sit outside, under the pergola and admire the peaceful views and flowers in full bloom. The menu changes pretty much every day and is always a good mix of pub classics to more sophisticated dishes and can include anything from Goosnargh duck breast and beef rib to Lincolnshire poacher.

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LEICESTERSHIRE

The Lancaster Arms, Leicester

For a slap-up meal with a twist, enjoy a Sunday lunch in one of the outdoor domes in the large garden of this family-run pub in the village of Desford. If you can’t book a dome, grab a seat on a cosy, cushioned outdoor sofa and enjoy a drink on the Gin Terrace – made more beautiful with its wooden arbours and fresh blooms. Tuck into their popular sharing platters filled with your choice of roast with Yorkie, stuffing, cauliflower cheese, bread sauce and then wash it all down with a punchy cocktail or dive straight into their new spring gin menu!

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WARWICKSHIRE

Set just outside Leamington Spa, The Red Lion in Hunningham offers enviable views along the River Leam while overlooking the spectacular Warwickshire countryside. It’s a former Muddy Award-winner too, so you know you’re onto a good thing.

The Hatton Arms, Hatton

The Hatton Arms has a gorgeous big garden with views overlooking Hatton Locks. If it gets chilly there’s a covered outdoor space complete with twinkly fairy lights and heaters. Make a day of it and head to nearby Hatton Adventure World first.

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WEST MIDLANDS

The Boat at Catherine-de-Barnes

The Boat at Catherine-de-Barnes has one of the most beautiful outdoor spaces and is sat right next to the canal. There’s three covered areas complete with log fires, patio heaters and fluffy blankets if it’s a bit chilly, or kick back in the sunshine if the weather’s nice.

The Barn at Berryfields, Meriden

In Meriden check out The Barn at Berryfields, with views overlooking the restaurant and farm shop’s fields full of cows – and reindeer. There’s a tipi too where street food is served and an outdoor bar. Cheers to that.

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ESSEX

The Anchor, Hullbridge

Boasting views over the River Crouch, The Anchor is the perfect place for ice cold drinks on a sunny summer afternoon. With sail boats bobbing by, grab a table on the decking and enjoy some top-notch pub grub (here’s looking at you, 10oz 28-day aged ribeye). You can now also enjoy dinner and drinks under the stars in one of their OakPods located in the garden. Each one offers an intimate private dining experience in your own personal bubble. Pretty cool stuff, eh?

The Three Horseshoes, Fordham

The Three Horseshoes is a family-run pub and restaurant close to Colchester. A popular spot for walkers, it’s been awarded two rosettes from the AA Restaurant Guide, so expect nothing less than top quality food and drink. The large garden welcomes friendly pooches, and they’ve also added a Coffee Shed to their outside space. Covered banquette seating means you’ll enjoy all-weather woodland views, with the area set to open into the garden at the rear, offering a more casual all-day dining experience.

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DERBYSHIRE

The Cavendish Arms, Baslow

Nestled in one of the Peak District’s prettiest villages with A-list views all around, this lovely hotel is getting a fabulous new garden room and terrace in May. Not staying? Not a problem. Non-residents can pop in for drinks and dining (the restaurant has three AA rosettes and is pretty special) and gaze from outdoor terrace onto the rolling Chatsworth Estate.

The Duncombe Arms, Ellastone

This cosy gastropub comes into its own come summer when its garden room roof retracts, the glass doors roll back and guests spill out onto the terrace and into the neat beer garden. And what a garden! With unspoilt lush green fields as far as they eye can see, it’s lovely for summer cocktails and even better for al fresco dining (no wonder the pub landed at number 41 in Estrella Damm’s Top 100 gastropubs this year).

The George, Castleton

Slap bang in the middle of the beautiful Hope Valley, this traditional British pub is overlooked by Peveril Castle on the tables at the front and has amazing views of Mam Tor from the beer garden at the back. It dishes up typical pub grub (from pies to pizzas), but it’s the post-hike garden views you’ll come for.

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NOTTINGHAMSHIRE

The Fox and Hounds, Blidworth

Deep in Robin Hood country, this popular pub has a vast, sprawling beer garden with big vista views. Not far from Newstead Abbey, it makes for a lovely spot to end a day out, glass of wine in hand (the vino offerings are particularly good here). It’s also got quite a reputation for its delicious (and generously-sized) pies.

The Canalhouse, Nottingham

It’s not always the rural pubs that have the best beer gardens and this city showstopper of a canalside covered courtyard is case in point. In fact, the canal not only flows alongside the pub, but into the Grade II listed building (a former canal museum) itself. The Canalhouse hums with a buzzy, chilled vibe on a weekend summer evening and, bright with flowers and fairy lights as boats drift by, it’s a lovely place to be. Craft beers are a speciality.

Ye Olde Bridge Inn, Oxton

Beer gardens don’t come much bigger than the one at this rural gastropub 10 miles north of Nottingham. There’s stacks of green outdoor space for dogs and kids (there’s a playground, trikes and even a Play Dome for littlies) and loads of outdoor seating – from sofas to benches. Too chilly for sundowner drinks? Book up one of the dining domes that seat up to eight people, complete with heaters, Bluetooth speakers and ambient lighting. No wonder then that this country gem scooped best pub for families at last year’s Great British Pub Awards and has just been named county winner in the National Pub and Bar Awards 2023.

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WILTSHIRE

The White Horse Inn, Compton Bassett

How’s this for a slice of rural idyll? This friendly countryside inn in Calne is the local go-to in spring and summer when the paddock garden comes into its own. Perch at a picnic table and sip your G&T while the kids shoot around on the lawn and watch the sheep ambling by. Dogs are welcome in the garden and the pub – don’t miss the 2 AA Rosette menu for an excellent dinner date or sunny lunch.

The Langley Tap, Langley Burrell

Inside this popular pub near Chippenham it’s all rustic floors, original stone walls, roaring fires and candlelight, especially during winter. But come summer, everyone heads out the back to the pretty south-facing garden out or goes full-on Miss Marple out the front, watching village life go by. If you’re lucky the pub’s converted horsebox kitchen will be serving up wood-fired pizza al fresco, too.

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CORNWALL

St Kew Inn, St Kew

If you want to find a peaceful spot in Cornwall in summer, a rural boozer’s a good bet. A short drive inland from the north coast holiday hotspots of Padstow and Rock is the sleepy village of St Kew. The historic, foodie pub here is worth a visit whatever the weather but the large safe garden with meandering river next to the church makes it particularly appealing in summer. Find a spot on the lawn and enjoy food cooked on the fire by local chef Andi Tuck (you might recognise him from his recent outing on The Great British Menu) sloshed down with Camel Valley wine, Tarquins gin and tonic or even one of Andi’s own smoked cocktails. Who needs the beach?

Lewinnick Lodge, Newquay

If you do prefer a sea view, the Lewinnick Lodge seems a world away from the bustling heart of Newquay – and yet it is just few minutes by car (or 20-minute walk) to the town centre. You’ll find this pub/restaurant with rooms emerging from the craggy cliffs of the Pentire Headland – head to the terrace on the cliff’s edge for the best Atlantic views. Makes a great stop off on a walk, as you can easily step onto the coast path straight from their doorstep.

The Gurnard’s Head, West Penwith

You can’t miss the gorse yellow building of The Gurnard’s Head, which shines like a welcome beacon as you drive the winding roads across the rugged Zennor moorland. Named after the fish head-shaped headland just behind the pub, inside is all cosy seating and lovely food, but out the back, not so much a spacious beer garden as a beer field, where you can enjoy the sun and watch the cows.

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NORFOLK

Ffolkes, Hillington

Relaxing in the fresh air over a glass of something cold and sparkling is all very well, but what if you have itchy feet? Play equipment in a pub garden needn’t be just for the smalls. At Ffolkes in West Norfolk there’s entertainment for big kids too in form of a shipping container crazy golf course. Decorated by local graffiti artists and pumping out choones, it features loop-the-loops, mazes and a golf-ball vortex. Little ones don’t miss out either as there’s a creative outdoor play area centred around a giant dragon’s egg, with lots of outdoor seating to supervise from whilst you leisurely sip your drink. 

Suffield Arms, Thorpe Market

A vast walled garden overlooking Norfolk countryside is just the spot for Mediterranean-inspired tapas on a sunny day. The kids can endlessly roll down the little hillock while you work your way through the small plates. For cooler days, there’s a large tapas restaurant in an orangery-like extension attached to a traditional pub, with opulent saloon bar upstairs. Like at its sister pub the equally cool Gunton Arms, Suffield Arms’ edgy art collection is not to be missed. And the delights of Cromer are close by if you fancy a preprandial beach trip.

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