The school holidays may be coming to an end, but there’s still time to soak up those last few rays of sunshine before autumn arrives.

Many of us will want to spend at least a few hours in a pub garden while the weather holds up and if that’s the case then you’re in luck - we’ve got five fantastic beer gardens right here in Kent where you can make the most of the last few weeks of summer…

THE BULL, Linton

If you want to take in some spectacular views of the High Weald area, The Bull in Linton is the place to be. The garden’s two-level wooden decking is a great place for people looking to unwind and watch the sun go down over the Kent countryside. It’s also particularly pleasant for al fresco dining, with pub classics like burgers, fish and chips and ham, egg and chips on the menu as well as sandwiches and baguettes.

Where to find it: Linton Hill in Linton, near Maidstone, ME17 4AW

THE CRICKETERS, Dover

Boasting one of east Kent’s biggest beer gardens, The Cricketers in Dover has been part of the community for more than 100 years. Families often flock to this boozer in the summer to take advantage of the children’s play area, swingset and bouncy castle, so there’s plenty for the kids to do while the grown-ups sink a pint or two. There are also regular live music, theme nights and family-friendly events going on all year round.

Where to find it: Crabble Avenue in Dover, CT17 0JB

THE NEW FLYING HORSE, Wye

The New Flying Horse, near Ashford, is a Shepherd Neame boozer that often impresses visitors with its beautiful location and stunning garden. It’s nestled on the edge of the Kent Downs, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and has an outdoor area that seats around 60 people. The real talking point of this pretty village pub is the award-winning Chelsea Pensioner-themed garden that scooped the Chelsea Flower Show gold medal. It also serves food seven days a week and pints from Britain’s oldest brewer.

Where to find it: Upper Bridge Street in Wye near Ashford, TN25 5AN

THE OLD NEPTUNE, Whitstable

Last year, the Old Neptune was named one of England’s best beer gardens and our very own Secret Drinker gave it the thumbs up during a visit in 2020. The Whitstable tavern is one of the only pubs in the country where you can feel pebbles beneath your feet and hear the waves crashing as it’s located smack-bang in the middle of the beach. The pub, affectionately known as ‘The Neppy’, is another Sheps spot and offers the hometown brew, Whitstable Bay, as well as fresh food brought directly to your seat on the seafront.

Where to find it: Marine Terrace, Island Wall in Whitstable, CT5 1EJ

WAGGON AT HALE, Chatham

If you’re heading out on a stroll around Capstone Country Park over the weekend, the Waggon at Hale, in Chatham, is the ideal pitstop. The large garden is great for families as it has a play area and its very own animal farm where you can meet pigs, goats, chickens and rabbits. This family-run pub has a range of wines, beers, cocktails and gins behind the bar and there’s food on offer from light lunches to evening dining.

Where to find it: 179 Capstone Road in Chatham, ME5 7PP