Wafts of suntan lotion and the scent of barbeques fill the air, and everyone’s praying for a sunny affair. The shorts are at the ready, the bottle openers are held steady, and people are raring for an al fresco dining experience in the Garden of England.
It’s the time of year when everyone is looking for the ultimate foodie spot with great outdoor spaces and ‘ale’ the best craft beers. Whether you’re looking for a hearty pub lunch in the country, or to enjoy a cold cider in the sun, we are here to serve up our favourite Kentish pub gardens, set to sizzle this season.
And while you’re out and about in Kent, it’s important to stay hydrated. Grab your favourite water bottle and download the Refill app, so you always know where you can fill up on your days out – and trust us, there’s a lot in Kent. You’ll never have to buy another plastic bottle again!
The Minnis Bay Bar & Brasserie
Overlooking the golden sands and blue sea of Thanet, The Minnis Bay Bar & Brasserie is a relaxed and stylish pub offering outstanding views, great food and an extensive drinks list. Enjoy a glass of dry and crisp wine on the terrace, watching the sun sink into the sea. Get those taste buds tingling with your favourite pub dishes or indulge in some traditional seaside fun with an ice cream by the beach.
Dukes
Serving up French-inspired bistro classics, with a side of refreshing cocktails and a splash of sunshine, Dukes in Margate is the place to be this season. Weave your way through the bustling streets of the Old Town, following the sound of their staple disco-soundtrack, to arrive at a spot known for its great vibes and even greater tipples. Bask in the sunshine, soak up the fantastic atmosphere, and make yourself at home as Margate welcomes you and friends to the sunny season with a "Cheers!".
The Zetland Arms
Are you a fan of seafood? Partial to a sunset and stunning ocean views? Or even an ale fanatic? Well then get yourself over to the Zetland Arms, a beachside pub with a difference. You can skim a stone on the waves from the outside patio and take in the sea breeze whilst tucking into fresh fish caught just off the Kent coast. Sample a perfect pint in either the bar, by the sea or even the suntrap walled garden.
The Boathouse Pub & Restaurant
Just a few minutes from the quaint village of Yalding you’ll find the delightful Boathouse Pub & Restaurant which sits on the waterside of the River Medway. Its alfresco dining area and restaurant offer everything from a quick bite to eat to a hearty family meal. The pub is also dog friendly so you can bring your trusty four legged friend along.
The Monument
Tucked away just up the road from the hustle and bustle of the city centre, you'll find one of Canterbury's finest hidden gems - The Monument. And, can we just say, it truly is a monumental place...having been a pub since 1803, and built even longer before that, there's a sense of rich history, commonplace among many of the buildings in the area. With one of Canterbury's biggest pub gardens, this is the perfect spot to hang out on a warm summer's afternoon, catching those last rays of light while you sip on a refreshing drink.
The Unicorn
For a taste of real ale, just a few minutes' walk from the city centre, we recommend adding The Unicorn to this season's pub garden roster. This traditional pub has some of the best tipples around, served with a smile and a game of bar billiards while you're at it if you fancy adding a touch of competition to your afternoon. Keep walking through the beautiful old building to discover their garden - that we think might just be the city's best kept secret. Twinkling lights for evenings catching up with friends, plants aplenty to feel as though you're in your own private haven...you couldn't ask for much else!
The Dolphin
One of our go-tos when it comes to beer gardens in Kent has to be The Dolphin, taking up its prime spot within the centre of Canterbury, with plenty of space in their beautiful decked garden. Peruse the streets of the city and its wonderful independent shops before heading over for a drink at The Dolphin, basking in the sun as you choose from their wonderful range of food and drink. Plus, with live music and events year-round, you're set for your evening of entertainment at one of the area's best spots.
💤Staying the night? Book in at Keepers Cottages' Sycamores...dog friendly and perfect for the little ones with a playground!
Grove Ferry Inn
On the banks of the River Stour, take the afternoon to sit back and unwind with a refreshing pint of Shepherd Neame's finest, plus unbeatable views of Kent's natural landscape. The Grove Ferry Inn is perfect for every occasion, so whether you've been strolling all afternoon and need a spot to rest, you're searching for that perfect summer birthday meal spot, or you even fancy a night away to relax to the fullest - you'll find it all and more, right here.
The Parrot
And to finish our tour around just some of the best beer gardens in Canterbury, we can't forget The Parrot - only a thirty second walk from The Dolphin if you can't quite decide which outdoor area you'd like to enjoy. Tucked away within cobbled streets, behind the thriving city centre, you can sit back and relax as you enjoy one of your favourite tipples. Accompany that with a dish off their diverse menu, filled with veggie and vegan dishes to suit the whole group, and your afternoon pit stop just became a visit to remember.
The Smack Inn
Let's go to the seaside! Located a stone's throw from the harbour, we have a feeling this Whitstable pub will make it on your next trip to the coast. Make the most of those sunny days in the county as you sit back, soak in the rays, and enjoy the sounds of the sea in The Smack Inn's very own beach garden. Sip on a refreshing pint, and be sure to tuck into their fantastic menu of pub classics, with seafood staples to mark the occasion!
Fitzwalter Arms
Built in 1589, making it one of the oldest pubs on the list, the Fitzwalter Arms mixes traditional charm with a modern twist. With food made to order, pints freshly pulled, and a beautiful pub garden, this is the epitome of a Kentish summer afternoon. Bring along family, friends, four-legged members of the group, and get to relaxing! And with its dreamy location in the heart of Goodnestone, luscious landscapes and blue skies are ready to make this a day out to remember.
Hythe Imperial Hotel & Spa
Right on the Kentish seafront, with a glorious garden where a tipple or two can be enjoyed, it's no wonder the Hythe Imperial Hotel & Spa has made it onto the list. Refreshing drinks, served alongside light bites, are waiting at this luxurious hotel and spa. So whether you're spending the afternoon with close friends, celebrating that special someone, or even want to treat yourself and a loved one to a night away, why not try the Hythe Imperial?
Belle Vue Tavern
Now that's what we call a view. Named the "Balcony of Kent" for a reason, you can spend your time at The Belle Vue Tavern taking in the glorious seascapes of Pegwell Bay and beyond. Trust us, you'll want to stay a while here, soaking up the views and letting the sea air relax you to the max. With live music throughout the year, and fantastic food and drink to accompany your drinks, this is certainly one for this season's bucket list.
The Tickled Trout
As one of Balfour Winery's pubs, it's safe to say The Tickled Trout in Maidstone has earnt our seal of approval (or should we say trout of approval!?). With plenty of charm and character, browse from their fantastic menu and tuck into a plate of carefully crafted, locally sourced grub - with the added bonus of a delicious wine pairing! Come rain or shine, their spacious terrace, beautifully kept garden, and modern interior will have a spot with your name on it.
Boys Hall
Pop in for breakfast, have a leisurely lunch or spend the summer evenings enjoying an al fresco dinner...all can be done at the bar and walled courtyard garden in Boys Hall. The perfect backdrop for a pint of local ale or a G&T overlooking the beautifully tended garden, here's your next summer spot. Choose from a selection of local beers, ales & ciders, an extensive wine list, masterfully crafted cocktails and a variety of non-alcoholic options, making for an inviting, laid-back retreat.
Walnut Tree
This traditional country pub looks as though it were lifted right from a postcard, so we definitely recommend popping it on your summer pub garden bucket list. Whether you're looking for a fresh ale, a wholesome lunch, or even a Sunday roast, it can all be found right here. So, grab the family and make the Walnut Tree in Yalding the next stop on your picturesque Kentish countryside adventure.
Royal Albion Hotel
With stunning views over Viking Bay, the Royal Albion Hotel is one of the best seaside spots where you can enjoy a refreshing drink, have a locally-sourced bite to eat, and even stay the night in one of their dreamy rooms to make the most of the nearby cafes, independent shops, and seaside exploration to be had.
Botany Bay Hotel
Escape the everyday with a trip to the coastline, stopping off at Botany Bay Hotel for the ideal place to sit and relax, taking in the breath-taking seascapes, feeling the cool breeze of the fresh air, and truly unwinding for the afternoon. Then, head down to the seafront and get the true taste of the Kentish coastline, and all the amazement it has to offer.
The Ship Inn
As the sun graces us, we're heading over to the beautiful Sandgate to soak up the delightful seascapes and enjoy an Aperol Spritz on the top deck of The Ship Inn - we couldn't make it more summery if we tried! Grab the sunnies, camera, nearest and dearest, and head on over for a refreshing sit down that'll leave you relaxed as can be. Cheers to that!
Curious Brewery
We all know and love Curious brewery, the wonderful makers of locally sourced and lovingly crafted brews, serving fresh food and drinks that'll make your tastebuds jump with joy. On top of the usual delicious food, relaxed atmosphere, and refreshing drinks that have become synonymous with the brewery, there's now the added excitement of a beautiful outdoor space, with the new Container Bar. Come along with friends and family, delighting in the tastes of beautiful brews in your next favourite summer spot.
Three Daws
This Riverside Inn, sat on the thriving Gravesend Pier and dating back to the 1400s, is rich in history and even richer in a good tipple. With events year round, ranging from quiz nights to cocktail celebrations, this is the spot for all you with a penchant for a pint and quality entertainment. Soak up those glorious views of the River Thames, a perfect view for those summer days when all you need is to unwind and reconnect with the outdoors.
The Leather Bottle
When we think of the Kent countryside, images of rolling hills, welcoming smiles, and beautiful architecture come to mind. Well, bottle that all up and you've got yourself 17th century pub, The Leather Bottle. Known to many as none other than Charles Dickens' favourite ale house in Cobham, it's safe to say this is a pretty picturesque spot. See for yourself just what the beloved author saw in the place, as you sit back and soak in those glorious views with a drink in hand!
The Black Horse Inn
It doesn't get much better than a walk through the beautiful outdoors, soaking in the sunshine and getting your legs moving, all with the knowledge that there's a refreshing drink waiting at the end of your journey. You can get exactly that with a trip to The Black Horse Inn, sat among winding routes of lovely walks in the iconic North Downs Way. Offering delicious food and drink, wonderful tipples, and even a place to rest your head after your adventures, it doesn't get much more idyllic than this!
