Bristol’s Best Beer Gardens and Suntraps: Summer is (Almost) Here
The sun’s out — well, it’s threatening to be — and in true Bristol fashion, that means it’s time to declare summer has officially arrived. The mercury’s creeping up to 17°C, which every proud Bristolian knows signals the start of cider season. Thatchers Gold, a crisp pint of lager, maybe even an Aperol spritz — all tastes better sipped in one of Bristol’s many brilliant beer gardens.
Whether you’re after an old-school pub vibe, a riverside terrace, or a hidden city-centre courtyard, we’ve rounded up some of Bristol’s finest outdoor spots to soak up the sun (when it finally stays out).
The Cornubia — A Hidden Gem with Classic London Vibes
Temple Street, Redcliffe
An old favourite tucked just behind the hustle of Victoria Street, The Cornubia feels like a little slice of London in the heart of Bristol. Think traditional pub carpet, hand-pulled ales, and a walled beer garden that somehow stays quiet even on busy weekends.
It’s dog-friendly, stocked with a rotating range of local cask ales, and boasts one of the best inner-city outdoor spaces for a post-work pint. Grab a pint of Butcombe and settle in — it’s the kind of place that turns a quick drink into a long session.
The Ostrich — Riverside Pints with a View
Lower Guinea Street, Harbourside
If you like your beer garden with waterfront views, The Ostrich is a Bristol summer classic. Sitting right on the water, it boasts one of the city’s biggest outdoor terraces. Watch the boats drift by with a cider in hand, or catch the golden hour glow as the sun sets over the harbour.
Plenty of tables, decent food, and the all-important shady spots for when things (eventually) heat up.
The Volunteer Tavern — City-Centre Courtyard Perfection
New Street, Old Market
Nestled just off Cabot Circus, The Volunteer Tavern is a proper Bristol institution. Its secret courtyard garden is surrounded by old stone walls and feels a world away from the city streets outside.
Expect local ales, a good mix of craft beer, and a food menu that leans into hearty pub classics. Perfect for that cheeky weekday pint when you’re “just passing through”.
The Hope & Anchor — A Sunny Southville Favourite
Jacob’s Wells Road / Lower Clifton
With its multi-level garden packed with picnic benches, The Hope & Anchor is a magnet for South Bristol’s sun-seekers. It’s got that classic neighborhood pub vibe — but when the sun’s out, the garden feels like a mini-festival.
A solid lineup of ales, ciders, and all the pub snacks you need. Grab a seat early — it fills up fast on sunny days.
Grain Barge — A Floating Suntrap
Mardyke Wharf, Hotwells
Yes, technically it’s not a “garden” — but the Grain Barge’s upper deck might just be one of the best places to sink a pint in the sun. Moored permanently on the harbour, this converted barge is home to Bristol Beer Factory brews and a cracking view back towards the city.
Great for lazy weekends — grab a pale ale, sit on the deck, and watch paddle boarders float by.
King Street — Bristol’s Longest (Unofficial) Beer Garden
Old City
Not technically one pub, but it would be criminal to leave King Street off any summer list. The cobbled stretch is home to The Famous Royal Navy Volunteer, Small Bar, King Street Brew House, and more — and in the summer months, it turns into one giant al fresco drinking zone.
Grab a craft beer, park yourself on a bench, and enjoy Bristol’s finest street-drinking scene. Bonus points if there’s a busker belting out 90s classics.
Spoke & Stringer — Waterside Chilled Vibes
Harbourside
For something a little lighter — think Aperol spritz or local gin — head to Spoke & Stringer. Overlooking the harbour, it’s perfect for people-watching and soaking up the summer vibes with a side of tapas or a grazing board.
The Green Man — Country Pub Vibes (Without Leaving Bristol)
Alfred Place, Kingsdown
One of Bristol’s most picturesque beer gardens, The Green Man offers a proper country pub feel — leafy, relaxed, and just hidden enough to feel special. Expect real ales, proper cider, and a cracking roast if you hang around long enough.
Double Puc at The Eye — Bristol’s Best Kept Summer Secret
Of course, no summer list is complete without shouting about our own sunny spot — the Double Puc Café terrace at The Eye. Perched right on the river close to Temple Meads Station it’s the perfect place to grab a coffee, an iced latte and enjoy the sun from one of our terrace tables. And if you’re planning a summer gathering or office bash? Our Double Puc Catering team has your back — perfect for outdoor parties, corporate events, or private celebrations. We serve BS1 to BS8 with seasonal menus designed to make the most of summer.
👉 Check out our summer catering menu here: doublepuc.com/catering