BEER GARDENS TO VISIT WHEN RULES EASED
WILL you be opting for a gin and tonic or a pint of lager when the pubs reopen? There will be no better feeling than enjoying a cold one after months of not being able to visit the pub.
As the hospitality industry gets ready to open venues with outdoor seating from the proposed date of April 12, folowing Boris Johnson’s roadmap announcement last week, we have picked out some of the best beer gardens you can visit when restrictions are lifted.
From peaceful pints to familyfriendly trips out, we’re certainly spoiled for choice in this area...
THE SUMP, WINSHILL
The Sump offers a large patio area with a replica of Burton’s Ferry Bridge where visitors can enjoy a drink overlooking the River Trent.
The popular pub is known for its variety of Burton-brewed beers and well-attended events. In the summer months, the outside garden is a great place to relax with a pint.
RIVERSIDE HOTEL, BRANSTON
Formerly a farmhouse, this classic country inn, restaurant and hotel sits alongside the River Trent and is only two miles from Burton town centre. The pub is steeped in history and the beer garden is the perfect place to refresh yourself after a walk around town.
While the pub has offered a beer delivery service in lockdown, there’s nothing quite like the atmosphere of being in your local.
THE RED LION, NEWBOROUGH
Just off the A515, The Red Lion welcomes families, walkers, cyclists and dog owners.
The beer garden has serene views of Needwood Forest, and boasts a wide selection of food and drink for customers.
THE WATERFRONT, BARTON MARINA
Situated on the Trent and Mersey Canal, Barton Marina offers a calm and tranquil setting for a peaceful drink at its pub, the Waterfront.
In 2015, the pub announced that children under the age of five would no longer be allowed at the Waterfront, meaning those who prefer to have a quiet drink rather than a family atmosphere will enjoy the venue.
THE CROSSING, BURTON
The Crossing, in the heart of Burton, is known for having one of the biggest beer gardens in the town.
Formerly the Blue Posts, the pub is now run by Martin Roper of punk band Anti Pasti.
The eccentric venue’s decked beer garden is a great spot to enjoy its extensive cocktail list on a sunny day.
THE LAST HERETIC, BURTON
This Station Street micropub offers a wide range of real ales, from local brews from Burton to international beers.
The pub is named after Edward Wightman, who was born in the late 16th century. He spent most of his life in Burton and was the last person in the UK to be burned at the stake for heresy.
He spoke out strongly against the Church, and when he failed to recant, he was burned outside Lichfield Cathedral in 1612.
HORSESHOE INN, TATENHILL
Animal lovers will feel right at home at the Horseshoe Inn, as the pub is home to a goat, rabbit and chipmunks. The children’s play area and enclosed beer garden are popular with families looking to while away a few hours in warm weather.
The family-friendly pub has something for everyone, with a wide range of ales, lagers, wines, spirits and soft drinks.
THE DRAGON, WILLINGTON
This 150-year-old pub backs on to the Trent and Mersey Canal, giving stunning views for anyone enjoying a drink in the large beer garden.
The pub and restaurant is popular with diners, drinkers, walkers and boaters alike, as they travel through the area looking for the perfect place to stop.
THE DOG AND PARTRIDGE, MARCHINGTON
If you fancy a trip down the A50, the Dog and Partridge in Marchington won Camra’s local pub of the year title in 2017 and the popular village pub is keen to carry on getting better.
The pub is handily placed for anyone heading to the Peak District, Alton Towers, Uttoxeter Racecourse and Sudbury Hall, providing the perfect place to stop off for a quick pint on the way home.