There’s no doubt about it: The beer garden is the beating heart of British summertime. Where else can you share a few drinks with good mates and bask in the sunshine? So, with the weather finally improving, we’re looking for lots of outdoor space, glistening surroundings and a range of beverages. So here’s our guide to the very best pub beer gardens in Bristol.
1. The Ostrich
Summer in Bristol, to most, means spending lots of time by the harbour. Whether heading out on the water yourself or just enjoying the lapping tide, a pint by the water’s edge is the ultimate way to spend the day. The Ostrich’s cosy interiors make for a lovely and lively winter pub, but come sunshine, it truly is abuzz.
Its massive harbourside beer garden is unrivalled in Bristol, with a mix of suntrap seating areas, shady spots, and covered and heated all-weather teepees. Its extensive rum menu is a nod to The Ostrich’s roots as a dockside inn where sailors, merchants and dock workers once drank. So it has history on its side, too.
The Ostritch, Lower Guinea St, Redcliffe, Bristol BS1 6TJ
2. King Street
We’re cheating here slightly by combining all of the pubs on King Street into one. We could have chosen any of the 10 pubs on this street (including The Apple at the very end) among Bristol’s best pub gardens. But really, King Street is greater than the sum of its parts, as the whole place feels like one giant beer garden. Which pub you go to – from The Llandoger Trow (once the drinking hole of Blackbeard, which these days throws techno nights) to the quirky and colourful Hey Dude bar; The Old Duke for jazz and blues music or the King Street Brew House for football – is a matter of personal preference. You might even consider a bar crawl!
King Street, Bristol
3. The Farm
A lively, vibrant pub in St Werburgh’s is as loved for its dance parties as it is for the beer garden. And that’s saying something! Its lush green space, equally colourful and roomy pub, and free-spirit feel, mean The Farm is ideal for unwinding in the sunshine. Enjoy a range of beers and ciders while DJs spin a mix of reggae, soul, funk and hip-hop outside in the beer garden (a regular occurrence on summer days). Situated next to St Werburgh’s City Farm, it’s the perfect pitstop for a pint after a day trip to visit the animals.
Hopetoun Rd, Bristol BS2 9YL
4. The Spotted Cow
A green oasis on busy Bedminster’s North Street, The Spotted Cow offers one of the more idyllic beer gardens in Bristol. Spacious pub gardens aren’t easy to find in this part of the city, so the sun-trapped, walled-off retreat is a special place to drink in the summer. A well-maintained lawn also means that if you can’t find a seat, the floor is as soft and welcoming as anywhere else. (The shady insides are also a blessing if you can’t stand the heat, too.) The pub is also great for food, particularly Sunday roasts, while regular music adds to the overall vibes.
The Spotted Cow, 139 North St, Bedminster, Bristol BS3 1EZ
5. Victoria Park
There’s one big reason to visit Victoria Park: The split-level beer garden boasts breathtaking views over Bristol. There’s also some incredible food coming out of the kitchen, and it’s only a short walk from its namesake—but trust me about that view!
Victoria Park, 66 Raymend Road, Bristol, Bristol, BS3 4QW
6. The Channings Hotel
The Channings Hotel was originally built in 1865 as a stylish Clifton townhouse, and for that reason, remains distinct today. The pub itself is spacious and stylish, with big sports screens and a seasonal menu. But it’s the huge, sun-trapped beer garden that steals the show.
The Channings, 20 Pembroke Rd, Clifton, Bristol BS8 3BB
7. The Hope & Anchor
A five-minute walk from Brandon Hill, the best way to describe The Hope & Anchor is cosy, homely, snug and warm. Not exactly words you associate with a place with a great pub garden. But trust us! Looks can be deceiving. Outback in this traditional pub’s ‘hidden oasis’, the beer garden can seat up to 78 people. Thanks to its location, it’s a suntrap during the summer months. But its cosy design, with overgrown greenery and covered seating areas, makes it just as attractive in the winter months. One of the best beer gardens in Bristol all year round.
38 Jacob’s Wells Rd, Bristol BS8 1DR
8. The Pump House
Where do you want to be on a warm summer’s day? Down by the water, of course! The Pump House provides the perfect waterside location near the city docks—although you may consider Harbourside alternatives like The Cottage Inn or Grain Barge.
The Pump House, Merchants Rd, Hotwells, Bristol BS8 4PZ
9. Rack’s Bar & Kitchen
Modern and stylish, fit for all weather, Rack’s terrace is the ultimate heated (if needed) outdoor space for use all year round. It changes seasonally too, transforming from sun-soaked al fresco dining and drinking space in the Summer into an Alpine Ski Lodge for Christmas. Meaning you never get caught in the rain or miss out on the sunshine. On top of this, you can all enjoy the garden that wraps around the adjoining Clifton Hotel. An all-day sun trap in the summer, it’s the perfect spot for enjoying Rack’s’ numerous food and drinks deals.
St Paul’s Rd, Clifton, Bristol BS8 1LX
10. Avon Packet
Easily one of the cheapest pubs in Bristol, the Avon Packet also has one of the city’s best beer gardens. You might not realise at first, but the tiny traditional boozer’s pub garden is massive—and even comes with its very own pond and ducks.
Avon Packet, 185 Coronation Rd, Southville, Bristol BS3 1RF
11. Beeses
The easiest way to visit Beeses is by ferry boat. Sitting on the River Avon in Brislington, on the edge of Eastwood Farm nature reserve, its tranquil setting was made for summer. Do we even need to say more to convince you to visit? You’ll find live music playing every Friday, while Sundays offer a cracking roast dinner, too. Surrounded by ancient trees and wildflowers, birds gently wading through the water too, you might forget you are even in Bristol. To learn how you can visit one of the best beer gardens in Bristol, head here.
Wyndham Cres, Brislington, Bristol BS4 4SX
12. The White Lion
If you’re visiting Bristol this summer, or just want to spend more time in Clifton, The White Lion is a must. It’s undoubtedly one of the best beer gardens in Bristol, with panoramic views of the Clifton Suspension Bridge and the Avon Gorge. The large terrace is sleek and modern and is definitely unique. (It’s also attached to the gorgeous Hotel du Vin, so you can stay within touching distance.)
Avon Gorge Hotel, Sion Hill, Clifton, Bristol BS8 4LD