Four reasons to visit a Chef & Brewer beer garden this summer
What’s the difference between a pub garden and a beer garden?
A pub garden may refer to an outdoor spot attached to a pub, but a beer garden is a special kind of space, where you can experience the same ambience and charm of your favourite inn, but with warm sunshine and crisp, fresh air. It’s a space made for al fresco drinks and dining, designed with picnic tables, parasols and maybe even an outdoor bar – so a refreshing pint is never far away.At Chef & Brewer, we offer beautifully designed beer gardens attached to some of the most characterful pubs in the country. Our Great British gardens are carefully curated with biodiversity in mind, with help from award-winning garden designer Frances Tophill.
The search for a fantastic beer garden near you is over – we’ve got just the place. Here are four reasons to visit a Chef & Brewer beer garden near you.
1. Stunning countryside locations
In a world that’s always on the move, a countryside beer garden offers you the chance to stand still. Our scenic locations provide a tranquil space to soak up the quintessential beauty of the British countryside.
Take the Wheatsheaf in Windsor Great Park, for example. Sitting pretty on the border of Berkshire and Surrey, this stunning 17th-century pub boasts a charming lakeside location with gorgeous views of Virginia Water Lake. Whether you’re refuelling after a brisk morning walk or enjoying a succulent Sunday roast, dining al fresco in this peaceful setting makes for an unforgettable experience.
At Chef & Brewer, we pride ourselves on our broad range of inviting countryside pubs with beer gardens and outdoor areas. Nestled snugly among idyllic landscapes and steeped in natural beauty, there are few better places to sip a cold pint and watch the world go by.
Easy access to great locations
Our pubs with beer gardens are dotted across some of the UK’s most beautiful regions, making them a convenient stop whether you're exploring the countryside or simply looking for a relaxing afternoon out.
- Near public transport: Many of our pubs are easily accessible by car, near main motorways, and some are even walking distance from a train station or bus.
- Close to attractions: Whether it’s a historic site, a national park or a charming village, our pubs are located near some of the UK’s most scenic spots.
For example, the Wateringbury near Maidstone in Kent is located on the main A26 Tonbridge Road, just over 4 miles west of Maidstone town centre. The pub’s setting is beautifully complemented by the River Medway running gently along the southern edge of the village. If you’re planning a long visit or even simply just passing through, Wateringbury is a truly serene place to while away the hours.
2. The perfect atmosphere for every occasion
We think each of our countryside pubs has that special something. Beautiful architecture, nestled closely into hillsides, by rivers and lakes. With rich history and deep, solid foundations, their charm is unmatched. However, our country pubs with beer gardens provide more than just a welcome respite for locals and visitors.
Tucked away between the gentle folds of rolling hills, shaded by ancient trees, some of our best beer gardens frame the pub as part of the stunning scenery. No matter if you’re planning a catch-up with friends, some family time or a date with your partner, it’s the ideal backdrop for any occasion.
You’ll find one of our most enchanting beer gardens at the Grapes in Wrea Green, a pretty 19th-century country pub situated in the heart of Lancashire’s most picture-perfect village. Overlooking the largest village green in the county, the Grapes treats you to a wonderfully traditional British pub experience.
On summer days, you can enjoy a cold drink while enjoying a spot of cricket, or just relax and take in the view of the duck pond. It’s a perfect local spot to retreat and escape the hustle and bustle.
3. Delicious food and refreshing drinks
A beer garden visit isn’t complete without fantastic food and drink. At Chef & Brewer, we offer an enticing food menu full of delicious pub classics, all made with quality ingredients and a sizeable dash of love.
- Signature dishes: From beer-battered fish and chips to our chargrilled steaks, there’s something for everyone.
- Summer drinks selection: Sip on a classic Pimm’s, a crisp glass of wine or a refreshing craft beer.
- Alfresco dining: Enjoy your meal in the open air, surrounded by stunning landscapes and the gentle hum of conversation.
Food and drink seem to taste even better when enjoyed among such beautiful rural backdrops. Imagine sitting down to a hearty pub meal surrounded by nature. Each delicious bite is a blend of tasty ingredients and traditional recipes.
Countryside beer gardens are truly a cut above the rest. And it’s not just the natural beauty that surrounds you that makes them so. The magic lies in the genuine warmth that greets you, the gentle contentment that lingers long after you’ve said goodbye.
4. Dog-friendly and a walker’s paradise
Bringing your canine best pal along? Most of our beer gardens welcome dogs, making them an unbeatable pitstop choice after a long walk. At Chef & Brewer, dedication to our guests is woven into our very fabric – including our furry four-legged guests.
If you’re exploring the Lancashire countryside, the Spread Eagle in Mellor is a must-visit. Surrounded by incredible green hills and close to the Ribble Valley, it’s a brilliant, dog-friendly place to unwind after a day of hiking. Loosen your walking boots as you sip a cask ale or refreshing wine and bask in the sun on the terrace during the summer.
Speaking of hikes, we’ve proudly partnered with AllTrails to help our guests explore more of the Great British outdoors. We adore the countryside and everything it has to offer, from historic intrigue and hand-picked produce to wildlife, myth and legend.
Discover an array of walks, from lazy strolls to more strenuous treks that conveniently start or end at one of our pubs. And wherever your adventures take you, there’s no better way to round off a countryside jaunt than with a hearty meal at a country pub, washed down with a lovely hot pot of tea.
Find your nearest pub with a beer garden
The best pub beer gardens offer a warm blend of natural beauty, kind staff and quaint, countryside character. At Chef & Brewer, we understand how these things make our beer gardens a prime spot to soak up the beauty of the summer season.Whether you’re seeking breathtaking views, a lively atmosphere or simply a great pint in the sun, our beer gardens will bring you all that and more.
Ready to make the most of the sunshine? Find a pub with a beer garden near you and plan your next visit today.