WITH holidays abroad off the cards for many, this summer is the perfect opportunity to explore your home county and enjoy the wonderful sights it has to offer.
Whether you make it a special occasion to reunite with family and friends or if you just want to sip a pint somewhere a bit different there are tons of pubs to choose from.
Ahead of the next heatwave, we have compiled a list of some of our favourite pub gardens across the county which come with stunning outside views.
The Watership Down Inn – Whitchurch
The Watership Down Inn dates back to the 1800s’ and nestles at the foot of the North Wessex Downs, overlooking the head waters of the Test Valley. The renowned Watership Down lies to the north of the Inn.
The Mayfly, Test Valley
This iconic riverside pub near Stockbridge that has been beautifully refurbished, the country charm of The Mayfly is sure to lure you in with its picturesque location, delicious pub meals, diverse range of drinks, nearby fly-fishing spots and walking and cycling routes.
Fishers Pond, Eastleigh
With its name taken from the pond which it sits on, the Fisher's Pond provides a tranquil location.
The delightful inn, overlooks a large pond and is well placed to enjoy the delights of nature at Itchen Valley Country Park, an unspoilt area of ancient woodland and water meadows; and there's exotic fauna at Marwell Zoo.
The George, Fordingbridge
The George is a beautiful 18th Century pub set on the banks of the River Avon on the edge of the New Forest National Park in the charming former market town of Fordingbridge.
The town of Fordingbridge takes its name from "The Great Bridge" which adjoins The George. The Bridge is a magnificent structure with seven medieval arches, and is Grade II listed. There has been a bridge on the site since at least 1086, with the medieval arches constructed in 1385.
The George is Fordingbridge's oldest surviving inn, having been situated on this prime riverside site since at least 1593, possibly even earlier.
The Cocky Anchor, Romsey
The Cocky Anchor is a small traditional family-run pub, located in the centre of Romsey.
The pub is a Grade II listed building that has been lovingly and sympathetically restored, teeming with original features, bringing a new lease of life to the historic building.
There is seating out the front of the pub where you can enjoy the hustle and bustle of the quaint market place or out the back in our pub garden for a quieter spot with beautiful views of the 900-year-old Abbey.
The Greyhound On The Test, Stockbridge
The outside dining areas lends itself entirely to enjoying the wonders of the pubs riverside garden. With a backdrop of the River Test, a garden bar to ensure you're never left thirsty and an array of foodie delights designed by Head Chef Phill Bishop, The Greyhound on the Test is the perfect meeting spot to catch up and reunite with loved ones.
Osbourne View, Fareham
The Osborne View is the only remaining pub along Hill Head Beach front, with direct access to the shingle beach.
Affording stunning views across the Solent the pub is named after Osborne House, residential home of HM Queen Victoria on the Isle of Wight.
With over 400 outside covers spanning a raised decked patio and large garden, together with a separate outside bar, there’s nothing quite like it for watching the World go by, particularly on a bright spring or summer’s day.
Where would you recommend visiting this summer? Let us know in the comments below.
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