There are few things better than enjoying a drink in a beer garden, whether you opt for a pint, a cocktail or a cold glass of lemonade. It’s a sign that summer is coming and the perfect way to spend an evening after work or (most of) a long weekend.
In true British fashion, the early May bank holiday weekend may see changeable weather conditions with rain showers but, there is the chance of a few hours of sunshine and the opportunity to enjoy a pint in the sun - without a big coat on - for the first time this year.
To save you searching for the perfect beer garden, we have taken a look Google reviews for some of the highest-rated* pubs in and around Liverpool city centre, with reviewers mentioning outdoor seating areas, and come up with a list of 12 of the best. Did your favourite local make the list? *Each venue has a Google rating of at least 4.3 out of five stars and a minimum of 100 reviews. No particular order.
5. The Red Lion, Slater Street
The Red Lion is a cosy pub in the heart of Liverpool city centre, offering cask ales and bar snacks. With a beer garden and courtyard, it is the ideal spot for a drink in the sunshine, and makes you feel like you're on holiday. ⭐ It has 4.6 out of five stars from 277 reviews. ✍️ One reviewer said: "A great pub with lots of little places to sit indoors and outdoors. A good selection of beers and the staff are very friendly. The beer garden at the back is great when the sun is out. Also another outdoor area that is more sheltered. Dog friendly too!" | The Red Lion Photo: The Red Lion
6. The Grapes, Roscoe Street/Knight Street
The Grapes is a traditional pub serving real ale and hosting live jazz music. In the heart of Liverpool’s Georgian Quarter, the cosy pub also has a popular beer garden. ⭐ It has 4.6 out of five stars from more than 1,600 reviews. ✍️ One reviewer said: “Nice pub, friendly staff, rooftop garden, good range of beers at reasonable prices for city centre pub.” | Rodhullandemu, CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons Photo: Rodhullandemu, CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons
7. Kazimier Garden, Seel Street
Kazimier Garden or ‘the Kaz’ as locals call it, has a quirky beer garden and covered booths and is a popular spot during the summer months. ⭐ It has 4.5 out of five stars on Google, with over 1,700 reviews.✍️ One reviewer said: “Cosy beer garden with good vibe and music." | Kazimier Garden Photo: Kazimier Garden
8. Baltic Fleet, Wapping
The Baltic Fleet is a popular independent pub, serving a range of local beers and spirits. It has a lovely outdoor seating area, with tons of benches so you don't have to struggle to find somewhere to sit. Inside, you'll find two floors with ample seating, with the upper floor boasting lovely views. ⭐ It has 4.3 out of five stars on Google, and over 1,800 reviews. ✍️ One reviewer said: "Very good pub with a fine selection of beers. Nice interior and good covered outdoor seating are. Been here a few times now and always found the place has a good atmosphere. This being Liverpool the locals are always up for a chat. On top of all this the staff are a friendly and welcoming bunch. We always make a point of popping in when visiting Liverpool." | Baltic Fleet Photo: Baltic Fleet