The sun is finally shining, which means it's the perfect time to enjoy a pint at one of Gloucestershire's gorgeous riverside pubs.
SoGlos rounds up the best waterfront pubs in the county, ideal for relaxing with a drink in picturesque surroundings or for a pitstop if you’re out on the river!
Stroud Brewery
Sandwiched between the River Frome and the Thames and Severn Canal, Stroud Brewery serves up its delicious organic beer next to the waterside. With an entrance to its beer garden right off the canal towpath, it's perfectly placed for anyone taking a leisurely walk from Stroud or paddleboarding down the canal on a sunny day.
River Shack in Bourton-on-the-Water
The brand-new bar from Bakery On The Water, River Shack sits on the banks of the River Windrush in the 'Venice of the Cotswolds', Bourton-on-the-Water. Serving up everything from British classic Pimm's and lemonade to Italy's favourite aperitif, Aperol spritz, as well as Cotswold ales, it's open every Friday and Saturday from 3pm for drinks and sharing boards in one of the county's prettiest spots.
The White Hart in Broadoak
This nautical-themed pub near Newnham-on-Severn is a popular watering hole in the Forest of Dean. Let the wind breeze through your hair as you relax with a pint, soaking up stunning views across the River Severn – and it's a prime spot to watch the famous Severn Bore, too!
The Fleet at Twyning
With a glorious beer garden overlooking the River Avon, The Fleet is tucked away on the outskirts of Twyning, just a few miles from Tewkesbury. This 17th century gem has boutique bedrooms, a heated pergola terrace and is also open for breakfast.
Brewhouse & Kitchen in Gloucester
Brewhouse & Kitchen at Gloucester Quays is a fabulous spot for dockside drinks and dining, with lots of tables along the waterfront where visitors can watch for narrowboats and tall ships with a pint of craft beer in hand.
The Pilot Inn in Hardwicke
Watch the boats go by at this riverside pub in Hardwicke near Gloucester. An ideal spot for a sunny afternoon drink, there’s a spacious beer garden equipped with a children’s play area, as well as a traditional, well-priced food menu that’s available all year round.
The Red Lion in Wainlode
One of the most well-known riverside pubs in the county, The Red Lion is a firm favourite when the sun comes out. Try its famous ploughman’s lunch for an alfresco feast as you watch the river roll past.
De Vere Cotswold Water Park near Cirencester
Nestled at the heart of the 152 lakes that make up Cotswold Water Park, this hotel and events venue has a variety options for waterside dining. The Brasserie offers contemporary French-inspired plates, while The Old Boathhouse has a bar and a decking area with gorgeous views over the water, especially at sunset.
Egypt Mill in Nailsworth
Egypt Mill is situated on the edge of the River Frome and boasts its very own water wheel. Offering great food and real ales on tap, the family- and dog-friendly pub and restaurant has plenty of traditional Cotswold charm.
The Duke of Wellington in Bourton-on-the-Water
Another Bourton-based watering hole, the Duke of Wellington is a 16th-century former coaching inn situated next to the River Windrush, serving up real ales and pub grub, with a pretty decked garden offering views of the water.
The Riverside in Lechlade
Just a short drive from beautiful Kelmscott Manor, which William Morris described as 'heaven on Earth,' The Riverside has a gorgeous garden which overlooks the River Thames. It provides a dock for canoes and motor boats, so it's the perfect pitstop for anyone travelling up or downstream, as well as a beautiful setting to sip on something cold and refreshing on warm, sunny days.
The Saracens Head in Symonds Yat
With its enviable location beside the River Wye in the Forest of Dean, it's no surprise that The Saracens Head is such a popular spot with locals and tourists. Whether you're seeking refreshment after a hike to the viewpoint, stopping off for a mid-paddleboard pint, or searching for the famous filming locations nearby, this waterside watering hole is well-worth a visit.
The Inn at Fossebridge
Located in the charming hamlet of Fossebridge beside the River Coln, The Inn at Fossebridge is a traditional Cotswold pub with a glorious garden that's ideal for alfresco dining, with tranquil views over the water.
The Swan in Bibury
The Swan provides a luxurious location to enjoy everything from afternoon tea to cocktails, with a gorgeous garden that overlooks the River Coln. Bibury is another of William Morris's favourite places, with the poet and artist describing it as 'the most beautiful village in England.'
The Bathurst Arms in North Cerney
With the stream bubbling through the pub garden, The Bathurst Arms in North Cerney is a lovely spot for cocktails, craft beers or real ales on a sunny afternoon, with a seasonal menu of traditional pub grub on offer, too.
