This city is jam-packed with places to eat and drink outdoors, from quirky terraces to picturesque gardens. Whether you're in the mood for a country escape, waterfront gem or city centre destination, there's plenty to choose from. Top up your tan with elegant eats, refreshing drinks and scenic views as you make the most of these brilliant beer gardens in Essex.
Last edited by Jasmine Lee Kennedy
You may know them for their affordable cocktails and lively weekend brunches, but Slug and Lettuce Colchester also have a number of streetside tables for alfresco tipples. Make the most of the outdoor space next time you're searching for places to drink in Essex.
This colourful pub in Colchester also happens to boast one heck of a beer garden. A real suntrap in warmer moths, The Centurion offers something for every type of group, whether you're catching up over a pint, watching sports or tucking into classic dinners.
When the sun's shining? Make your way to the Alex in Southend-on-Sea to enjoy a few coldies in the beer garden. If you've worked up an appetite, check out the tasty food menu, including BBQ-pulled jackfruit tacos and halloumi and hot honey burgers.
Boasting an outdoor space that's great for alfresco dining all year round, Original Plough Chelmsford is a real winner when it comes down to Essex's best beer gardens. Whether you're chilling in the covered area or basking in the sunshine, this venue is sure to impress.
Offering punters a gorgeous sky-high space, Epping Roof Garden is bound to elevate those garden plans. Whether you're popping by for a birthday celebration or to guzzle a few bevvies in the sunshine, this floral-adorned cocktail bar is bound to hit the spot.
When it comes to Essex pub gardens, Oakwood in Leigh-on-Sea has the perfect little sun trap for those sunnier days. Expect to enjoy this outdoor space while tucking into British classics, burgers, wings and more, all with a pint in hand.
The Travellers Friend is a cool neighbourhood pub with a vibrant beer garden that's made for summertime sips. Found a short walk away from Woodford underground station, this place is often buzzing with revellers seeking classic British grub and refreshing pints when temperatures rise.
With its painted murals, picnic tables and outdoor screens, Golden Fleece is an unmissable beer garden in Chelmsford. That's not all though as this welcoming pub offers its patrons the chance to enjoy discounted food and drink with regular deals throughout the week.
The Chequers Matching Green is a modern pub that's perfect for alfresco drinking and dining. Situated on the Hertfordshire and Essex border, the venue offers a more traditional feel inside with a contrasting contemporary terrace area overlooking the pretty garden.
For top-notch pubs in Essex, The Bull Romford is a fabulous watering hole during the summer months. Choose from a wide array of tipples, from refreshing vino to craft beer and paired with yummy nibbles - think snack nachos, drunken mushrooms and BBQ beef tacos.
The Anchor is a restaurant and waterfront pub serving seasonal British fare from its home on the banks of the River Crouch. Overlooking green belt countryside and the surrounding nature reserve, this pub is an essential venture for those hoping to drink and dine in a stunning Essex beer garden this summer.
From its blooming beer garden to its traditionally cosy interiors, The Greyhound is a firm favourite on the Essex pub scene. If you're looking for a cool place to drink and dine outside, this Brentwood spot provides the perfect space for socialising when the sun's shining.
As its name would suggest, Inn On The Green features a cracking beer garden for summer drinking sessions. Join them for a few local ales, spirits or wine with some seriously hearty pub grub, including healthy salads, juicy burgers and their famous Yorkshire pudding wrap.
Set in the heart of historic Moulsham Street, The Bay Horse combines period features with award-winning roasts and regular entertainment to create a quintessential Essex pub experience. If the weather's holding up? Make the most of their terrace area for a few alfresco drinks.
The Rose & Crown is a staple for summertime drinking and dining on The Quay. As well as serving pub classics and a wide choice of drinks, the venue boasts an outdoor seating area that stretches into the water when the tide is high, providing a totally unique beer garden experience.
Where to drink outside in Essex? The Spread Eagle has a bustling beer garden, fab for whiling the sunny days away. Enjoy munching on British dishes such as fish 'n' chips, and pair your meal with a freshly pulled pint or refreshing cocktail.
