While we love a good pint anywhere, there’s certainly something about a beer garden that makes the whole experience more exciting. The perfect spot for summertime sipping, whether you prefer a pint or a cocktail, beer gardens are a must-visit after a busy day at the beach.
At the moment, with the current COVID-19 situation, beer gardens are also offering a slightly safer option for those who have missed the socialisation pubs can offer, allowing for a space for people to meet outside while enjoying a drink.
Whether you’re planning for future adventures in Cornwall or looking for somewhere to meet with friends at the moment, then we’ve put together a guide to some of the best pubs with beer gardens in the area.
* With current events, please check the Facebook page or website for each pub before you visit to check their revised opening hours and if booking is required, as details may change regularly.
Pandora Inn, near Falmouth
Not far from Falmouth, on the Restronguet Creek sits the Pandora Inn, a charming 13th-century pub that features a thatched roof and offers stunning views.
Rather than a traditional garden, the outdoor space at the Pandora Inn is actually a pontoon on the water at the front of the pub, with a number of benches and tables set up for you to enjoy a pint or a tasty bite to eat.
From your table, you’ll be able to watch the water and enjoy seeing the birds bobbing along. Kids may even be able to have some fun with a spot of crabbing off the edge of the pontoon!
Plus, if you’re staying with us here at The Valley in one of our luxury Cornish cottages, then the Pandora Inn is only 15 minutes away by car!
Falcon Inn, St Mawgan
The Falcon Inn has a stunning outdoor space, featuring a lawn of benches, surrounded by beautiful trees and blooms, making for a truly relaxing pub experience.
You’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to drinks too, with a selection of real ales and ciders on draught.
An incredible place to visit year-round, on colder days, pop inside and enjoy your drink in front of a roaring fire.
The Gurnard’s Head, Zennor
A hidden gem of a pub, located in a more secluded spot in Zennor, The Gurnard’s Head is well worth a visit for the views alone. You won’t miss it though, as the pub itself is painted a very bright yellow!
Boasting a brilliant outdoor space, The Gurnard’s Head has plenty of benches in its garden area, perfect for enjoying a cocktail in the sun. The beer garden is full of interesting greenery, including a few palm trees, which give the place a slightly tropical feel!
Shipwrights Arms, Helford
Located on the banks of the Helford River, the Shipwrights Arms offers impressive views over the river. Their outdoor space overlooks the water, allowing you to enjoy a good pint as you watch the boats go by.
Also outside the pub is an outdoor pizza oven, which serves up tasty slices in the summer months, making this the perfect spot to sit in the evening with a drink and some nibbles.
The Working Boat Pub, Falmouth
Located on Falmouth Harbour, The Working Boat Pub has wonderful views out over the water and comes with a private quay, meaning you could even sail up in your own boat to enjoy a pint!
Offering fifteen beers and ciders on tap, The Working Boat is serious about their drink, and even offer their very own sip; the Working Boat brew.
During the summer months, their private quay features a marquee (which they dub their mar-quay), allowing for covered outdoor drinking. In fact, this is the largest covered outdoor licenced space in Falmouth.
Enjoy a good pint or experience al fresco dining in this unique spot.
Bird in Hand Pub and Brewery, Hayle
Located just outside of Paradise Park, the Bird in Hand Pub is the perfect place to grab a drink after a fun day out at the Park.
The pub was initially a stable from 1860 but has now long been serving delicious local ales, including the pub’s own concoction; Paradise Bitter.
The pub is accompanied by a beer garden which offers a sunny spot to sit and relax with your drink of choice. Alternatively, visit on a Sunday and enjoy a cracking Sunday roast!
Are you a fan of beer gardens? Which of these will you be visiting, or is there one we’ve missed that you prefer? Leave us a comment on Facebook to let us know!
If you’re less fussed with beer and more interested in a good plate of locally sourced goodies, then check out our favourite places to eat on the south coast of Cornwall!