Bristol’s vibrant and ever-changing pub scene offers some of the best beer gardens for locals and visitors to relax and enjoy a refreshing drink during the summer months.
From historic harbourside spots to hidden suntraps, Bristol’s beer gardens provide a perfect retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle. This guide takes you through some of the best beer gardens in Bristol, perfect for soaking up the sun and sipping on your favourite tipple.
The Ostrich
Discover The Ostrich, situated on Bristol’s historic harbourside, boasting one of the city’s largest pub terraces. Recently revamped by Butcombe Brewery, The Ostrich now features an outdoor bar and food trailer alongside an abundance of benches for you to enjoy the sun.
The Pump House
Located in Hotwells where the city docks meet the River Avon, The Pump House offers fantastic boat-watching opportunities and a large garden surrounding the pub. This gastropub serves delicious food and boasts a gin selection of hundreds, making it the perfect spot for an indulgent summer evening.
The Spotted Cow
Venture to North Street and check out The Spotted Cow, a charming pub with a vibrant beer garden adorned with wooden tables and murals. The walled garden at the rear provides a sunny oasis, while fairy lights transform the space into a magical retreat at night.
The Grain Barge
For unparalleled harbour views, visit The Grain Barge in Hotwells, a pub boat with a top deck dedicated to alfresco drinks and dining. Enjoy table service while soaking up the scenery on a warm summer day.
The Shakespeare (Redland)
The Shakespeare in Redland offers a courtyard garden that becomes a suntrap during warm afternoons. The garden is fully covered during winter, with heating lamps and fairy lights creating a cosy atmosphere throughout the year. Dogs are welcome, too!
Steam Bristol
Steam boasts one of the largest covered and heated terraces in the city, complete with stretch tents and assorted lounge furniture. This quirky venue provides a unique outdoor space to unwind on sunny afternoons.
Tobacco Factory
Experience the vast garden at the Tobacco Factory, one of the largest outdoor spaces in Bristol. This versatile venue hosts a variety of events, from beer festivals to street food markets, complete with an outdoor bar, pizza menu and live music on selected evenings.
The Full Moon
Located at the junction of the city centre and Stokes Croft, The Full Moon offers a bustling atmosphere and a spacious beer garden perfect for people-watching and making new friends. Enjoy a slice of pizza from Pepe Nero’s pop-up kitchen, which caters to vegan and gluten-free diets.
Racks
Nestled between Clifton Village and the Triangle, Racks Bar & Kitchen features an attractive terrace for summer days and cosy indoor alcoves for cooler months. The adjoining Clifton Hotel’s garden provides a suntrap for early evening cocktails and nibbles. Visit Racks for special offers on food and drink, as well as their summer BBQ offerings.
With a variety of fantastic beer gardens to explore, Bristol provides the perfect setting for a sun-soaked summer of outdoor socialising and relaxation.