What is the best thing about summer? To us, it’s about basking in the sunshine, with refreshing drinks and the company of all your friends. There’s no better way to enjoy all three than with time spent in a pub garden. We’ve not had much chance to enjoy them this year, but finally, the weather has picked up. What we’re looking for is lots of space to sit everyone, pretty surroundings that glisten in the sun and a great pub attached serving a good range of beverages. So here’s our guide to the very best pub beer gardens in Birmingham.
1. The Plough
The best thing about The Plough in Harborne is that it adapts to the seasons, meaning its beer garden is a wonderful experience no matter the season or weather. This hip neighbourhood gem mixes sleek and stylish with village vibes, guaranteeing everyone of yours will want to wile away hours out in the sunshine here on a lazy Sunday. We recommend also tucking into the simple yet hugely satisfying gastro menu while here. It features everything from stone-baked pizzas to roast dinners, homemade chili to fish finger sandwiches. Comfort is king at The Plough.
21 High St, Harborne, Birmingham B17 9NT
2. The Old Crown
We’ve probably all spent one summer evening in Birmingham’s oldest pub. Can you be considered a Brummie if you haven’t? The great thing about The Old Crown’s pub garden is that it often hosts a number of exciting events. You’ll find yourself wrapped in everything from discos to pub quizzes. Perfect if you’re looking for somewhere with a buzz of energy this summer.
High St, Deritend, Birmingham B12 0LD
3. The Distillery
The Distillery is a stone’s throw away from Brindley Place and perfectly situated on the water’s edge. You’ll find it heaving on a hot day (especially when there’s sporting events on) and adds a great atmosphere to the canal side. As beer gardens go in Birmingham, you won’t find many bigger than here! It’s also home to Roundhouse Gin (Birmingham’s first city centre distillery), which makes this place ideal for G&T… or two. Why not sign up for Gin School sessions while you’re there and create your own bespoke gin? It’s the perfect summertime tipple.
4 Sheepcote St, Birmingham B16 8AE
4. The Prince of Wales
Nestled in the heart of Moseley, The Prince of Wales ‘hidden’ beer garden has everything from live music to wood-burning fire pits and its very own garden bar – serving beers, wines and Tiki-style cocktails. You’ll also find street food takeovers firing up the grill and live sports events on the big screens. The Prince of Wales basically has everything you could ever want from a beer garden in Birmingham, including lots of space and sunshine!
118 Alcester Rd, Birmingham B13 8EE
5. The British Oak
The British Oak in Stirchley has been going for almost 100 years (having opened in 1926). And it still knows how to show its visitors a good time. Not only does the beer garden offer lots of space, the lack of built-up buildings in the area ensures you get plenty of sunshine too. But that’s not all as the beer garden is often home to live music. Meaning a party vibe is often on the table at The British Oak in the evenings. In need of food? Birmingham street food icons Original Patty Men also serve their burgers at the pub!
1364 Pershore Rd, Stirchley, Birmingham B30 2XS
6. The Flapper
Most people head to The Flapper due to its legendary rock’n’roll status. Some of the coolest bands in Birmingham have started their career at the grass-roots venue, with live music available up to seven days a week. But, situated on James Brindley Walk and the Cambrian Wharf canal basin, The Flapper is also a large sun trap. The laid back atmosphere at this canal-side beer garden is perfect for late summer drinks, whether you’re planning to catch a show or not,.
Cambrian Wharf, Kingston Row, Birmingham B1 2NU
7. The Canal House
It might be another canal side location, but this beer garden is still worth highlighting in Birmingham. The Canal House is officially one of the best beer gardens in the country. It offers a sophisticated style; the exterior (and interior when popping to the bathroom or the bar) offer rustic and elegant designs, while the stunning views of the canal basin are a delight as well. Surrounding trees only elevate the chilled atmosphere. Seasonal menus make The Canal House a great place for outdoor dining too.
12 Bridge St, Birmingham B1 2JR
8. Button Factory
The Button Factory has always had one of the best beer gardens in Birmingham. The roof terrace means you always catch the sunshine wherever you’re sitting. It’s absolutely glowing. But the Jewellery Quarter bar’s options are about to get a whole lot better this summer.
The launch of The Yard sees a secret, 350-capacity, outdoor space opening. Perfect for catching some of the sunshine coming our way, The Yard also features a retractable roof in case of rain! Expect a series of fantastic live music, DJs and food events to take place throughout the summertime too. Learn more here.
25, Frederick Street, B1 3HH
9. The Ruin
Where else but Digbeth are you likely to find a quirky independent pub like The Ruin? Inside are lots of cosy little rooms to squeeze in with a nice craft beer. But when the sun is shining, everyone heads up to the roof terrace for some of the most fantastic views of this trendy neighbourhood. On Sunday afternoons, unwind to some jazz while you’re up there too!
92 Floodgate St, Deritend, Birmingham B5 5SR
10. The High Field
The High Field in Edgbaston adds a splash of class to the traditional pub beer garden. Gorgeous green lawns, trees and shrubbery, deck chairs and umbrellas, and some top-notch grub served all day give this sun-soaked garden a village pub vibe. Alongside the spacious garden, there’s also a sunny terrace you can dine on or enjoy quality draught beers. While outdoor huts provide an exclusive space for bigger groups.
22 Highfield Rd, Birmingham B15 3DP