It's getting towards the time of year again where punters will be wanting to enjoy their drinks at a pub outdoors.

Going to a beer garden to bask in the sunshine and have a few drinks is an activity enjoyed by many in the summer months, and you might be thinking about where is best to go.

Luckily, TripAdvisor can break down some of the highly-rated pubs in Colchester, and which ones have a well-received beer garden.


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Here are some of the best beer gardens to visit in Colchester as the summer approaches.

Where are the best beer gardens in Colchester

The Kings Arms

Gazette: King Arms Beer Garden (TripAdvisor)King Arms Beer Garden (TripAdvisor)

Where: 61-63 Crouch Street, Colchester CO3 3EY

TripAdvisor rating: 4/5

The Kings Arms on Crouch Street is the first one on the list, and has received praise for a large beer garden, with plenty of seats and umbrellas for cover.

Out of its 245 reviews, 121 were rated 'Excellent' on its TripAdvisor page

One reviewer wrote: "We visited Kings Arms and sat in the beer garden whilst live music played. It was a fantastic atmosphere and the table service via the app was very good."

The Cricketers

Gazette: Entrance to The Cricketers (TripAdvisor)Entrance to The Cricketers (TripAdvisor)

Where: Spring Lane Fordham Heath, Colchester CO3 9TG

TripAdvisor rating: 4.5/5

The Cricketers is best known for its quality food, but is also recognised for its beer garden that really captures the sun well on warm days.

Out of its 455 reviews, 275 were rated 'Excellent' on its TripAdvisor page

One reviewer wrote: "Spent a lovely afternoon in the Cricketers beer garden, then went inside for an early evening meal. Food is reasonably priced, large portions and served by very pleasant staff."

Half Butt Inn

Gazette: Half Butt Inn (TripAdvisor)Half Butt Inn (TripAdvisor)

Where: Nayland Road, Colchester CO6 4ET

TripAdvisor rating: 4/5

This pub restaurant on Nayland Road has been commended for its spacious beer garden, which is also family-friendly with a play area for the kids.

Out of its 92 reviews, 47 were rated 'Excellent' on its TripAdvisor page

One reviewer wrote: "Came here with my wife, two kids and the in-laws. The food was lovely, beer selection was good and the area outside was amazing. They have a big play area for the kids and very comfy outdoor furniture for the adults."

Donkey & Buskins

Where: Layer Road Colchester, Layer de la Haye, Colchester CO2 0HU

TripAdvisor rating: 4.5/5

The decently-sized beer garden has been recommended by a fair few reviewers as a great spot to sit in the warmer weather.

Out of its 494 reviews, 328 were rated 'Excellent' on its TripAdvisor page

One reviewer wrote: "We decided to visit the beer garden for a little lunch in the very very hot weather, was happy to see so many tables with umbrellas. For anyone who doesn't know, they have a lovely big outdoor area with so many tables, cute little fish pond (child safe) and of course inside area too."