Sipping a crisp pint or juicy cocktail is instantly more refreshing when lounging in a picturesque beer garden on a British summer’s day
The Farmers Arms, Devon
Traditional with a twist and a sprinkling of luxe is the MO at The Farmers Arms. Here, a creative chef crafts sublime plot-to-plate dishes, the bar list champions local ales and every cordial is made in-house.
On balmy days, the sun-trap beer garden beckons. Sink into a seat with a forager’s bramble cocktail in one hand (made with local Gotland Gin, house-made nettle cordial and blackberry) and a bowl of house-made crisps in the other, and watch the hours slip away.
Not ready to leave? Extend your stay in one of The Collective’s stylish cottages dotted throughout the village. Finished with the thoughtful touches and understated luxury that earned the collection a Michelin Key, the cottages make the perfect base for a laidback summer escape.
Sign of the Angel, Wiltshire
Set in the postcard-perfect National Trust village of Lacock, The Sign of the Angel building dates back to 1482. With its honey-hued stone, historic charm and idyllic riverside setting, it makes a dreamy spot for a sundowner.
Gather friends for a round of local ciders and settle into the peaceful garden. Weekday visitors can make the most of the inn’s aptly named Angel Hour (3–6pm), when two-for-one cocktails, £4 pints of Guinness and £5 glasses of Prosecco are on offer. For a more indulgent afternoon, plump for a traditional afternoon tea.
The garden backs onto a gently flowing river where ducks paddle and, in spring and summer, fluffy ducklings often make an appearance. Combined with views of the charming 15th-century coaching inn, it’s a setting that feels lifted straight from a period drama.
Castle Inn, Devon
On a hot day, there’s no place to cool off with a refreshing tipple quite like a beer garden, and the fairytale-esque garden of this Dartmoor dining pub nails the brief every time.
Step into the inn through the wisteria-adorned front, order your chilled beverage of choice from the garden bar, which runs throughout the season, and crowd around one of the garden tables. Alternatively, settle beneath the heated stretch tent and watch the sun set beneath a canopy of twinkling lights. With tables available to book, all that’s left to do is turn up and order the first round.
The garden overlooks the neighbouring Lydford Castle, which looks the stuff of Instagram dreams against its whimsical moorland setting.
Agricultural Inn, Devon
This inn, located just a few miles from Exeter, is popular year-round, but in summer it hums with activity as walkers spill into its spacious secret garden.
Everything you could want from a village pub is here: a strong line-up of local beers and ciders, a menu inspired by Devon’s coast and countryside, and plenty of spots to settle in for a leisurely lunch. Families are particularly well catered for, with giant outdoor chess and four-in-a-row games, a children’s play area and plenty of green space to roam. The real surprise, however, is the secret garden hidden behind the car park, where a dedicated garden bar and Asian-inspired street food provide all the ingredients for a glorious afternoon in the sunshine.
Adding to the garden’s charm are resident pygmy goats, Spam and Pickle, who have become minor celebrities among regulars. Meanwhile, a menu including pillowy bao buns, crisp dumplings and rainbow bowls ensures no one leaves hungry.
St Tudy Inn, Cornwall
If you’re lucky enough to find yourself in the Cornish countryside on a sun-drenched afternoon, make a beeline for the St Tudy Inn. With its charming beer garden and ideal location, it’s a great place to quench your thirst after a day of exploring.
The 16th-century inn is surrounded by rolling countryside, while the surf beaches and fishing villages of north Cornwall are just a short drive away. Before or after a day of exploring, settle on a bench beneath a parasol and take your pick from the thoughtfully curated drinks list while browsing the menu. Head chef George Buckley and his team put a refined spin on pub classics, championing local produce and making the most of Cornwall’s exceptional seafood bounty.
Turn your afternoon into an overnight escape by booking one of the beautifully designed rooms in the converted barn.
Enjoyed our curation of beer gardens in the South West? Delve into nine things to do this summer.
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