Bristol is a city of many talents. It has a diverse music culture, some deep and rich history, and a collection of first class beer gardens. Spoons is all well and good, but sometimes you need a bit of variety.

Whether it's a Thatchers, a Moretti or a Strongbow, the best part of any pub visit is the garden in the back, and luckily for us, Bristol offers a fair few places for you to enjoy a couple of pints with your mates before the weekend.

Here are some of our recommendations!

The Highbury Vaults


image taken from The Highbury Vaults Facebook Page

With its convenient location on St. Michael’s Hill, The Highbury Vaults is one of Bristol Student’s best loved pubs, but its beer garden is where it shines. Larger than the interior of the pub itself, the covered, heated garden can be enjoyed in all seasons.

The Highbury Vaults used to be where the condemned went for their final meal before meeting their fate at the hands of the hangman. Nowadays, it’s where those condemned to a middle of the road 2:1 go after a long day in the library.

It's also popular amongst lecturers at the University of Bristol, and sightings of your teachers downing pints with their friends are possible. Maybe don't start a conversation while out with the lads though.

The White Lion


image taken from White Lion Facebook page

For the beer garden with the best views in Bristol, look no further than The White Lion. On a terrace overlooking the Avon Gorge, this hotel bar provides spectacular views of Bristol’s most iconic landmark: Brunel’s Suspension Bridge.

Home of some course socials and a perfect place for the classic Bristol plus alcohol plus bridge selfie, its popularity is fairly self-explanatory.

It can get very busy, and it is a little pricey, but it’s a one-of-a-kind bar. Maybe head there when your parents are in town.

Beese’s Riverside Bar


image taken from Beese's website gallery

Due to its stunning riverside location, Beese’s is the only garden on this list which can be accessed by boat. Hop on Beese’s own 50p ferry or go on one of the many boat trips along the Avon which stop off at this hidden gem.

They offer live music every Friday and have an annual beer, cider and music festival. Open throughout the summer, you’ll be able to enjoy the beautiful greenery, excellent beer, and the occasional swan drifting past. 

Wild Beer


image taken from Wild Beer at Wapping Warf's Facebook page

Though purists may argue that Wild Beer at Wapping Wharf’s outdoor seating space isn’t really a garden, it’s still a fantastic place to soak up the sun whilst enjoying one of their top notch, constantly changing craft beers.

Situated right next to Cargo at Wapping Wharf, which houses some of Bristol’s finest eateries, Wild Beer’s 'garden' is the perfect place to relax after a hard day of eating.

The Lion Tavern


image taken from The Lion's website gallery

This lovely local pub in Cliftonwood, Hotwells has the smallest garden on this list. With only three tables the tiny walled terrace garden is an intimate, peaceful space. Rather than being a spot to get trashed with your mates, The Lion Tavern is more the kind of place you might take a date.

The staff are very welcoming and it’s surrounded by some iconic colourful houses that you would only get in Bristol. It's a hidden gem in the heart of Hotwells.

Hope & Anchor


image taken from Hope & Anchor's Facebook page

Situated on Jacob Wells road, the Hope & Anchor's beer garden is out the back in a sort of raised forest. The pub itself serves a delicious toffee apple cider, amongst other classic pub choices, and with good weather it's a beautiful place to hang out.

If that wasn't enough, it was the very place Isambard Kingdom Brunel held his business dealings. The pub also offers up to six real ales and takes part in occasional beer festivals, linked to local events. Oh, and Wednesday is quiz night.

Friday evening sorted?