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.
9. Ye Cracke, Rice Street
Ye Cracke is a nineteenth century pub in Liverpool's Georgian Quarter, where John Lennon famously used to drink. The venue has a beer garden, perfect for enjoying its range of ales and other drinks. ⭐ It has 4.5 out of five stars on Google, and over 1,100 reviews. ✍️ One reviewer said: "They have one of the best beer gardens in the city centre." | Local TV Photo: Local TV
10. Botanical Garden, New Bird Street
The Botanical Garden is hidden away in the Baltic Triangle and is an absolute gem. The small venue is predominantly outdoor and serves a range of local drinks, as well as pizza. ⭐ It has 4.7 out of five stars on Google, and over 385 reviews. ✍️ One reviewer said: “Lovely open air sunny spot with laid back friendly vibes. Loads of delicious gin cocktail options including slush, and there’s some lovely looking pizza and sides for scran to accompany the beverages.” | Image: @Botanicalgardnliverpool via Instagram Photo: @Botanicalgardnliverpool via Instagram
11. The Merchant, Slater Street
The Merchant is quirky bar, with an adjoined pizza place next door. There is an outdoor seating area at the front, as well as a large back beer garden. ⭐ It has 4.4 out of five stars on Google, and 889 reviews. ✍️ One reviewer said: "Loads of outdoor seating, chilled vibe and good beer selection." | @The Merchant/Facebook Photo: @The Merchant/Facebook
12. The Lady of Mann, Dale Street
The Lady of Mann is a hidden pub and bar, serving world ales and a range of cocktails. The venue has a huge outdoor seating area, with ample TVs for watching sporting events. ⭐It has 4.3 out of five stars from over 800 reviews. ✍️ One reviewer said: "Hidden gem great beer garden fab drinks." | calflier001, CC BY-SA 2.0 Photo: calflier001, CC BY-SA 2.0