10 best beer gardens in Nottingham

With restrictions eased and pubs starting to open once again for the summer months ahead – with specific rules in place – beer gardens are going to be the place to go once again. Here are some of the best beer gardens in Nottingham for you to enjoy a socially distanced drink this summer.

Canal House

After opening in 2000, The Canal House forms part of the former Canal museum. Its unique infrastructure lays within public houses as well as the canal extending into the building itself. And to add to the unique exterior, the building is complete with narrow boats. The bar has an outdoor terrace, and to adhere to social distancing regulations, the benches within the terrace are now more spaced out. For you to enjoy a drink at the pub, you must book a table that is available in three-hour slots throughout the day. Location: Canal Street, Nottingham, NG1 7EH

The Lambley

The Lambley is a traditional and family friendly pub open to all. All food served there is locally resourced. Not only can you enjoy authentic Nottingham food, but you can enjoy it in the country setting that surrounds the pub with the beautiful views of the countryside. During lockdown, the workers at the village pub have built a new terrace for customers to both enjoy a socially drink undercover and in open air. Like other pubs, you must book a time slot. However, the pub has been clearly missed as opening day was fully booked. Location: Main Street, Lambley, Nottingham, NG4 4PN

The Martins Arms

This idyllic pub is set in the village of Colston Bassett, and there is no worry of this beautiful building going away as it is a Grade 2 listed building. The Inn is situated in estate parkland, surrounded by trees and nature meaning you can enjoy a drink in the peaceful location. The landscaped gardens are overlooked by the church spire and you can even see the occasional sheep! The Martins Arms will only be serving drinks to start with when it opens on 4 July, but it will be serving its award-winning food menu the following week. Location: School Lane, Colston Bassett, Nottingham, NG12 3FD

The Three Ponds

The Three Ponds pub is a part of the “Greene King” pub chain and is located in Nuthall. During the summer months, the pub is perfect to enjoy a drink whilst getting a tan. Pre-lockdown, the pubs outside area could fit 200, however, due to restrictions this will be less. The pub is due to open 6 July with social distancing rules in place. Location: Kimberley Road, Nuthall, Nottingham, NG16 1DA

The Radcliffe

Situated in Radcliffe on Trent, the village pub is also a short distance away from the Red Cliffs of the River Trent. In July 2019, the pub underwent a £450,000 refurbishment and is now an independent Gastro Pub. There are two sun trap garden terraces to enjoy a refreshing drink in the sizzling summer months, as well as a fire pit, an outside bar and a large garden with a children’s play area. The large outdoor area – from the revamp – means social distance restrictions can be put in place for people to drink at the pub. Location: Shelford Road, Radcliffe-on-Trent

The Dovecote

The Dovecote is a traditional country inn, set in grounds close to Sherwood Forest – the home of Nottingham legend Robin Hood. The award-winning restaurant serves locally sourced food, as well as drinks including craft lagers and a specific selection of hand-picked wines from its much-loved bar. To get to the pub, it is located just off the A1 in North Nottinghamshire in the medieval village of Laxton. White circles have been put down in place to maintain social distancing and social circles. Location: Cross Hill House, Laxton, Newark, NG22 0SX

Star Inn

The Star Inn is a newly refurbished real ale pub for you real ale drinkers out there. Customers are spoilt for choice with the pubs exclusive and extensive wine and whisky menu – alongside other traditional beverages and snacks. Not only can you enjoy the traditional pub feeling, but you can enjoy their homemade stone baked pizza. Unfortunately, due to restrictions, the pubs usual live music is been put on hold. However, all ales and food familiar to the pub are still available to buy. Bookings are being taken for tables (much like other pubs). Location: Middle Street, Beeston, Nottingham, NG9 1FX

Brewhouse & Kitchen

The Brewhouse & Kitchen is another chain of pubs that isn’t only situated in Nottingham, but across the country. Not only do the pubs offer a wide range of drink and food for their customers, but they are great locations for functions including weddings and birthday parties. There is now a booking system available online for the Brewhouse & Kitchen pub, and they will begin to open from the 6 July in a phased return. The Brewhouse & Kitchen in Nottingham will open 15 July. Location: Trent Bridge, Nottingham, NG2 2GS

The Nelson

Tucked away in Burton Joyce, the Nelson is a good old-fashioned pub where you can enjoy a relaxing drink, as well as being surrounded by a vibrant atmosphere to keep your spirits high. The infrastructure gives you the traditional country feel with its wooden floors and chic wall coverings. For social distancing purposes, the pub has equipped themselves with a buddy system where someone will make sure it is safe both inside and outside. Unlike other pubs, there is no booking system, however, you must still be prepared to queue and wait. Location: Chestnut Grove, Burton Joyce, Nottingham, NG14 5DN

The Horse & Groom

The Horse & Groom is another pub owned by the chain “Greene King”. Not only is the beer garden large, but you can enjoy the luxurious country views surrounding the pub. Last year, the pub underwent a £200,000 makeover so the patio was doubled in size. The pub is due to reopen on the 6 July just like the other Greene King pubs. Location: Moorgreen, Newthorpe, NG16 2FE