Sun, sights, and pints. It’s a simple list of things I want on a summer’s day, but no one can guarantee me all three. Two ain’t bad though, so next time the sun’s shining, I’m hopping in a car and making my way to The Rising Sun in Pensford—the spacious riverside pub with an award-winning beer garden and views of Pensford Viaduct and a village church.
The Rising Sun has always been blessed with an unbelievable beer garden. It was even named the second-best in England in 2023 (Losing to a pub that’s located on a beach in Cornwall—how can you compete with that?) But since new owners took over in September 2024, the whole pub has stepped up its game.
“My aim is to see this outstanding village pub through the next five years and beyond, and to bring a whole new generation of eyes onto this fantastic village,” said Rob Moore, who previously ran The Keynsham Courtyard. Dating back to the 17th century, The Rising Sun wears its history with pride while stepping into a new era.
Inside, you’ll find a cosy, welcoming traditional boozer all year round, serving elevated British pub classics—from scotch eggs and Sunday roasts to sausage ‘n’ mash and fish ‘n’ chips. Behind the bar, choose from a selection of real ales, while regular music events and quiz nights bring a lively atmosphere.
But obviously, it’s the beer garden that steals the show, which sits with the Pensford Viaduct in full view. Spacious, peaceful, surrounded by nature, it’s easily one of the country’s most breathtaking beer gardens. The picturesque village ain’t half bad either—with one of the UK’s largest stone circles only a stone’s throw away.
How do I get to The Rising Sun?
Just a 20 to 30-minute drive from Bristol, you can get to Penford following the A37 all the way there. Alternatively, if you can’t drive, you can just as easily hop on the Mendip Explorer bus instead. You can’t miss The Rising Sun once you’re in the village—the pub’s painted blue after all!
📍The Rising Sun, Church St, Pensford, Bristol BS39 4AQ
🌐 To learn more about The Rising Sun head here.