The best pubs to watch the sunset with a drink in hand

The Bulls Head – Chiswick, London

The Bulls Head is a beautiful Grade II listed riverside pub in the heart of Chiswick. Though still close to the city, this is the ideal spot to escape the hustle and bustle of London and enjoy the delightful views of the River Thames. Sit back in the beer garden, and sip a summer tipple while watching the sunset shimmer along the river. 

Close by, there are many famous attractions to explore, including Oliver’s Island - a small island on the River Thames where legend has it, Oliver Cromwell took refuge from the Cavaliers during the English Civil War. Some say he had a secret tunnel built from the island to the Bulls Head in case he needed to escape. Though no evidence of the tunnel has yet been found, many locals believe it to be true to this day. 

Whether you head to the island, take a trip to explore the flora and fauna of Kew Gardens or simply sightsee with a picturesque riverside walk, this quintessentially British pub is the perfect place to round off your day with a delicious meal and sunset drinks.

The Hutt – Ravenshead, Nottinghamshire

Steeped in history, the Hutt simply oozes character and charm. It was built in the 1400s as part of the Newstead Estate, which was given to Sir John Byron in 1540. The pub was originally used to house men patrolling Sherwood Forest to protect the King’s deer, and can be found near Newstead Abbey where Sir Byron used to live. 

History aside, it also offers up breathtaking countryside views from the beer garden and its leafy surroundings. Sip on a summer cocktail, a crisp white wine or a cold beer, as the sky lights up in delightful oranges, reds and yellows. It’s what British summertime is all about. And as this is a dog-friendly pub, your pet pooch is invited too. 

The Little Harp – Clevedon, North Somerset

Not only will you be able to catch the sky turning golden as the sun sets over the Little Harp pub, but you can also drink in some of the best views in Somerset at the same time. With views stretching out over Little Harp Bay and the River Severn, you can even see over to Wales on a clear day. 

If you’re in the area for the day, stretch your legs with a walk to Clevedon Pier – the only Grade I listed pier in the UK – or head to Clevedon Lake close by if you fancy a swim. Then make sunset at the Little Harp your final port of call for the day. 

Simply sit back and enjoy the beauty of nature as the sun sets over the water. There are few better ways to see in the evening in Somerset. 

The Riverside – Branston, Staffordshire

This characterful Midlands pub is conveniently perched on the banks of the River Trent. And it’s a favourite spot amongst locals and visitors to relax with a drink as the sun edges down over the river.

Grab a pint of crisp lager, a dry white wine or summer cocktail from the bar and settle into the stunning beer garden to watch the golden light sparkle and glow on the water. And before you find your spot in the beer garden at the Riverside for sundowners, give yourself a little time to explore the local area. The lush countryside of Rosliston Forestry Centre surrounds the pub with 154 acres of beautiful forest, where you can walk, run, forage and even take part in a Tai Chi class. 

The Rose Revived, Witney, Oxfordshire

Sitting along the River Thames, the Rose Revived is a delightful ivy-covered 16th-century pub just 12 miles outside of Oxford. 

As it’s surrounded by rolling Oxfordshire countryside, you’ll find plenty of walks in the local area to stretch your legs. To experience the best of nature, head to Standlake Common Nature Reserve to spot the resident birdlife including mute swans, coot, Canada geese and kingfishers. After a long day exploring, park up in the beer garden at the Rose Revived and watch the sky turn crimson and orange as the sun bids farewell for another day.