Bristol’s best beer gardens

The Gloucester Old Spot is a vibrant venue with hip aesthetics and a homely feel where everyone is considered a local. The beer garden is our favourite part of the pub because it features colourful art, a great backdrop for an upbeat atmosphere. The venue now has a covered, heated terrace and a marquee which means that bad weather won’t ruin your plans. There’s also the Wednesday pizza night where you can buy one pizza and get an extra one for free, making it the perfect hangout spot. As for the menu, it boasts classic British ingredients with a creative twist (the beer-battered fish and chips are not to be missed). Visit for fun times, friendly service and delicious food.

If you’re looking for a laid-back spot to chill on a sunny day, look no further. The Inn on the Green is a country-style pub known for offering comfort food and a friendly atmosphere. The owners believe that good company, food and booze can fix almost anything, and we can confirm there’s a lot of truth in this approach. Here you can relax in the cosy beer garden filled with flowers and good vibes. Apart from a refreshing pint, you can also enjoy al fresco dining; we recommend the baked salmon fillet in lemon butter on charred tenderstem broccoli, baby spinach and new potato salad. Your pets are also welcome to join you so you can truly make a family day out of it.

The Forge & Fern attracted locals and visitors alike with its beautiful design; the contemporary interior with atmospheric lighting and cute beer garden at the back – it’s the best of both worlds. When the weather’s nice you can enjoy a drink outside and when it’s not so up to par, you can always sit inside where the classy decor will make up for it. At Forge & Fern, it’s all about quality. Apart from the great aesthetics, there’s the delicious but simple food menu prepared using local produce. For example, you can start your day in style and order the Forge breakfast: streaky bacon, Buxton sausage, hash browns, baked beans, poached egg, roast tomato and mushroom. If you visit on a Sunday, you’ll be in for a treat. The slow-roasted pork belly with crispy pork crackling and Yorkshire pudding is to die for and not to mention the desserts: churros, Bailey’s tiramisu, sticky toffee pudding and many more!

The Spotted Crow has a reputation for being a community pub and it does succeed at making everyone feel at home. It shouldn’t come as a surprise as the venue has been around for over 200 years and feels like a haven in the middle of the city. Whenever you want to escape the noise and bustle, head to the beer garden to enjoy the sun and catch up with friends (the long benches and cosy plant-filled settings are ideal for group meetings). The food is classic British comfort food with solid Sunday roast options and vegetarian and vegan dishes, so everyone will find something for themselves. The pub also makes sure to use local produce where possible and some of the ingredients are even supplied from the venue’s very own roof garden! Additionally, you can book in for a pub quiz every Tuesday and listen to jazz, blues and Americana music every Sunday afternoon, too.

For a relaxed British pub experience, make sure you add Duck & Willow to your list. Located on the outskirts of Bristol, this venue is a perfect destination for those who fancy a weekend away but don’t want to travel far. At Duck & Willow, you’ll get to soak in the sun and friendly atmosphere while staying far away from the bustle and stresses of the city. The pub is famous for its family-friendly beer garden and homecooked meals prepared with locally sourced ingredients. The menu consists of nibbles such as cider-battered onion rings, pizzas, flatbread wraps, burgers and traditional British mains with some kid’s options as well. There are also a few desserts to choose from and a 2-for-1 cocktail offer all day every day! We can’t think of a better place to unwind on your day off, can you?