The 7 Best Pub Gardens for...

There’s something about pub gardens this time of year that makes it very hard to leave after one drink. Coastal walks end with a pint in the sunshine, and a quick stop somehow becomes the whole afternoon. From riverside terraces and beachside spots to village gardens made for a sunny weekend, here are a few of our favourite pub gardens for the season ahead.

The Ancient Mariner Inn, Old Hunstanton

Best for: Sunset views

Just moments from the beach, The Ancient Mariner Inn is perfectly placed for catching the sunset after a day on the coast. Head back from your afternoon on the beach, grab a drink and settle in as the sky changes colour over the sea. Here's our top things to do in and around Old Hunstanton.

The Weeping Willow, Barrow

Best for: Long lunches in the garden

Tucked away in the Suffolk countryside, near Bury St Edmunds, The Weeping Willow’s garden is made for stretching out a spring or summer lunch. Enjoy something from the garden menu, a Hugo Spritz or a pint in the sunshine, and make an afternoon of it.

The Gin Trap Inn, Ringstead

Best for: Cocktails on the terrace

The terrace at The Gin Trap Inn comes into its own when the weather warms up. Order one of the pub’s cocktails or classic gin and tonic, settle into a sunny corner and watch as the sun sets over the pastures.

The Ship Inn, Dunwich

Best for: After the beach

A short walk from the shore - 3-minutes to be exact - The Ship is ideal after a day on the Suffolk coast. Sandy shoes, dogs and families are all welcome, with plenty of space outside for a late lunch, a bowl of ice cream or a pint in the sunshine.

The Anchor Inn, Nayland

Best for: Riverside stop-offs

Set beside the River Stour, The Anchor makes a great stop if you’re exploring the water by canoe or paddleboard. Pull up to the jetty and head straight into the garden for lunch or a drink overlooking the water. If you haven't arrived by water, there's also plenty of footpaths and parking nearby.

The Globe Inn, Wells-next-the-Sea

Best for: Bank Holiday weekends

The Globe Inn, next to The Buttlands in Wells-next-the-Sea, is always a lively spot over a Bank Holiday weekend. Expect drinks out front, live music in the courtyard and a good atmosphere that carries from lunch well into the evening. The pizza oven will also be fired up on the Saturday and Monday afternoon.

The Carpenters Arms, Great Wilbraham

Best for: A pint after a walk

After a walk through the Cambridgeshire countryside, The Carpenters Arms is the sort of place you’ll want to settle into for a while. Grab a pint, order a few bar snacks and take a seat outside while the evening rolls in.

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Thinking about spending a little longer in our region? Our hotels also welcome you to join them on the terrace for relaxed dining and drinks. Whether you're stopping by for a morning brew from The Old Bridge Coffee Window or sheltering in the shade of a parasol at The Maltings, you can reserve a table or simply pop in.

To discover all of our gardens, click here.