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Scotsman
02-05-2025
- Scotsman
Pub near Edinburgh with 'stunning views' named among 'best beer gardens in Britain'
Watch more of our videos on and on Freeview 262 or Freely 565 Visit Shots! now The best beer gardens in Britain have been named - and a sceneic pub on the outskirts of Edinburgh has earned a place on the list. Sign up to our daily newsletter Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to Edinburgh News, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... Eat Drink Meet, a website that helps users discover nearby pubs, bars and restaurants, ranked the watering-holes that are the best spots to enjoy a refreshing drink under the sun. Introducing the list, Eat Drink Meet said: 'Summer has arrived – and so has beer garden season! From historic pubs and countryside locations to vibrant city hangouts and scenic riverside settings, there's a perfect beer garden waiting for everyone.' Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Venues up and down the country made the list, including a local boozer that boasts 'stunning outdoor views of the Firth of Forth'. Without further ado, here are the 12 best beer gardens in Britain, according to Eat Drink Meet. The Old Thameside Inn, London Rich in history, The Old Thameside Inn in London offers a truly iconic outdoor setting to slow down after a day of exploring the capital. Housed in a former spice warehouse on the historic Pickford's Wharf, which was once a bustling dockyard, this 16th century landmark now invites guests to enjoy riverside dining surrounded by centuries of stories. Just behind the pub lies the original site of Clink Prison, which has served as a private prison for the Bishop of Winchester since 860AD. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Whether you're catching the latest live sports, enjoying your favourite pub food, or sipping a refreshing pint by the river, The Old Thameside Inn offers a unique blend of heritage, comfort, and unbeatable outside views along the Thames. The Swan, Broadway Set in the charming village of Broadway – 'the jewel of the Cotswolds' – The Swan is the ultimate place to pause and unwind outside. Whether you're exploring the iconic Cotswold Way National Walking Trail or simply passing through, the sun-soaked terrace invites you to relax with a refreshing cocktail while soaking up sweeping countryside views. On a clear day you can see as many as 16 different counties from the nearby vantage points. Drawn to the distant silhouette of Broadway Tower? It's just a scenic one mile walk away, an ideal detour after indulging in a well-earned treat at the pub. The King's Arms, Knowle Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Soak up the sunshine and take in scenic views of the world-famous Grand Union Canal from the waterside beer garden at The King's Arms. Nestled in the picturesque village of Knowle, this charming pub offers a welcoming setting – whether you're enjoying a sunny pint, catching up over a delicious brunch or afternoon tea, or toasting to a special occasion. Visiting for business or leisure? Extend your stay in one of the pubs' 10 stylish and comfortable guest rooms for a truly relaxing escape. The Barnt Green Inn, Bromsgrove There's nothing quite like a post-walk pint in the sunshine – and The Barnt Green Inn just outside of Birmingham is just the place to enjoy it. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad With its charming courtyard and spacious countryside-esque beer garden, this welcoming pub is just moments from the scenic trails of Lickey Hills Country Park, offering countryside views right in the heart of Barnt Green. From seasonal pub classics to an impressive selection of drinks, there's plenty to tempt you – and with live music every Friday, there's always a reason to return. The Trout Inn, Oxford Dating back to the 17th century, this recently refurbished pub offers breathtaking views of the River Thames. Just three miles from Oxford's city centre, The Trout Inn blends timeless character with contemporary comfort. It's the ideal spot to relax outdoors after exploring nearby landmarks like Godstow Abbey, Oxford Castle & Prison, and the Oxford University Museum of Natural History – or before heading to a gig at the O2 Academy Oxford. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad The Trout in may also feel familiar to fans of Colin Dexter's 'Inspector Morse', having featured in three episodes: The Daughters of Cain, The Remorseful Day, and Who Killed Harry Field. With past guests including Lewis Carroll and Rosamund the Fair to King Henry II, this riverside gem is truly steeped in story and atmosphere. The Cunning Man, Reading Named after a local legend of a 'cunning man' – a good wizard said to protect people from dark spirits and witches – The Cunning Man is a charming and unique pub set in a picturesque location. Recently re-built and lovingly restored in its original style, complete with a thatched roof, this characterful pub-restaurant features beautiful gardens ideal for outdoor dining. Whether you're sipping something refreshing in the sunshine, enjoying an al-fresco lunch, or tucking into a hearty dinner, you'll be treated to stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad With direct access to the Kennet and Avon Canal towpath, it's a tranquil haven to relax before or after a scenic walk. And for those seeking entertainment, The Cunning Man hosts live comedy on Mondays, live music on Fridays, and an exciting pub quiz every Thursday – guaranteed to keep your evenings lively and full of fun. The Pine Marten, Harrogate Tucked away in the charming town of Beckwithshaw, just on the outskirts of Harrogate, The Pine Marten is a dog-friendly country pub set in a historic listed building. Surrounded by idyllic countryside and forest views, it is a great spot to relax and enjoy al fresco dining in a truly premium setting. The Pine Marten also offers 12 spacious, comfortable, and stylish bedrooms - ideal for a peaceful countryside escape. Whether you're planning a relaxing night away or golf weekend at the nearby Pannal Golf Club, this is the perfect base. The Ashton, Bristol Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad A top choice for al fresco dining, The Ashton in Bristol offers a delightful place to savour a bite while basking in the sunshine. With its own charming courtyard and beer garden overlooking the countryside, it's hard to resist lingering a little longer. Conveniently equipped with EV chargers, it's also an ideal stop after a day out in Bristol or Bath, or a round of golf at the nearby Ashton Court Golf Course or Long Ashton Golf Course. The Coombe Cellars, Devon On the banks of the River Teign in Devon, The Coombe Cellars, is a delightful dog-friendly pub with a stunning waterside beer garden. Head to this quaint country pub after a day exploring the beautiful surrounding countryside – particularly the breathtaking hiking trails of Red Rock – just across the river. When it's time to head inside, the indoor dining space offers equally impressive views of the water, so you can enjoy the peaceful scenery wherever you're seated. The Inn On The Lake, Surrey Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Perfect for any occasion, The Inn on the Lake is a countryside gem set against the stunning backdrop of a tranquil lake in the heart of Godalming. Its spacious, dog-friendly garden offers panoramic views, ideal for soaking up the scenery with a real ale or freshly shaken cocktail. Whether you're stopping by after a countryside walk or settling in for the weekend, guests can enjoy the added convenience of on-site EV chargers, making it even easier to unwind sustainably. With effortlessly chic hotel rooms just steps from the bar, The Inn on the Lake seamlessly blends rustic elegance with modern convenience for the ultimate countryside escape. The Plymouth Arms, Cardiff Named after Elizabeth Lewis, who married the Third Earl of Plymouth, this historic Grade II listed inn has been a beloved destination for travellers since the 1700s. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Located just outside Cardiff, The Plymouth Arms offers guests the chance to relax with an al fresco meal or refreshing drink in its charming beer garden, surrounding by serene countryside. Whether you've spent the day at the nearby Natural History Museum or St Fagans Castle, a visit to The Plymouth Arms is the perfect way to round off your day. The Hawes Inn, South Queensferry Nestled in the picturesque South Queensferry, The Hawes Inn boasts stunning outdoor views of the Firth of Forth, providing a breathtaking backdrop for any occasion. Steeped in literary history, this delightful inn famously inspired Robert Louis Stevenson, who even featured it in his class novel 'Kidnapped'. Why not indulge in a memorable dining experience and make a night of it in one of the cosy rooms – perhaps even Room 13, where Stevenson himself stayed back in 1886?
Yahoo
15-04-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
'We get students in to run our pub'
As pubs look to become more creative in a bid to stay open, one owner has welcomed students in to run his bar and kitchen, once a week. The Swan in Windsor is a community-owned pub run by Mickey Foden-Andrews who says staff have to think "outside the box" to keep the pub running. It comes after analysis of government figures by the property data company Altus Group showed more than one pub a day closed its doors for good in the UK in 2024. The overall number of pubs has fallen below 39,000 for the first time and last year 412 were demolished or converted for other uses. Mr Foden-Andrews says: "The British pub is the backbone of the economy. "It's not just a place to come and have a drink - it's a place to come, meet new people and have interesting conversations." He said it was becoming increasingly difficult to stay afloat, particularly after the increase in employers' national insurance (NI) contributions and the national minimum wage in April. As a result, they were having to come up with new ideas. "We do very weird and wonderful events, that you wouldn't necessarily find at a normal pub," Mr Foden-Andrews says. A chatty café is held at the pub every Friday and both a Warhammer social group and a ukulele band regularly meet there. He says the team was "very fortunate" to have The Green Room College based at The Swan. The college offers 16-18 year olds the opportunity to get practical, hands-on experience, before helping them find a job in their chosen profession. It is run by The Green Room Foundation which invested in the community group's campaign to secure the pub. Pupils from the college run the pub on a Thursday from 11:00-14:00 and the last Tuesday of every month from 17:00-20:30. "They run the bar, the kitchen, they'll serve you and pour you a brilliant pint, Mr Foden-Andrews says. "It's definitely our unique selling point having the school onside. "We are the only pub we could find that's got this." He explains The Swan was closed for a "very long time" and was going to be turned into flats or a supermarket, when the community stepped in and bought it. He says: "We were looking for further investors, we got the Windsor and Eton Brewery onside, who knew that the Green Room Foundation were looking for another site. "I think the future is going to be tough but I'm optimistic about our partnerships." You can follow BBC Berkshire on Facebook, X (Twitter), or Instagram. The Green Room School The Swan Windsor
Yahoo
08-03-2025
- Yahoo
Suffolk afternoon tea's named among UK's best
Two hotels in Suffolk have been named among the best places for afternoon tea in the lead up to Mother's Day. Muddy Stilettos compiled a list of the top places across the county to get a selection feast of finger sandwiches, sweet treats and scones with clotted cream and jam. The Marquis in Layham and The Swan in Southwold were included in the round-up by the lifestyle guide. Afternoon tea at the hotel and spa near Hadleigh is served in the Orangery, which is surrounded by natural light and overlooks the Suffolk countryside. The Marquis overlooks the Suffolk countryside (Image: Charlotte Bond)READ MORE: 5 of the best afternoon teas in Suffolk In warmer and sunnier weather, it can be enjoyed on the Spa terrace which overlooks the Italian Gardens. The afternoon tea menu includes a selection of sandwiches with fillings such as pastrami and pickled cabbage, whipped feta and sun blushed tomato, or smoked salmon and dill compressed cucumber. It is followed with the traditional plain and fruit scones as well as sweet treats from coffee eclairs to rhubarb and custard macarons. The arancini at The Swan (Image: Newsquest)READ MORE: The Swan in Southwold is just a short walk up from the promenade and beach of the coastal town. Afternoon tea is served daily in The Still Room, a restaurant designed with the influence of features in the Copper House Distillery. Priced at £30 per person, it includes brioche finger rolls with a range of fillings, saffron arancini and mini fish and chips. As well as buttermilk scones, the sweet part of the menu has offerings such as mini cinnamon doughnuts, a mini ice cream cone and a malt load with Adnams Broadside glaze.


BBC News
05-03-2025
- Entertainment
- BBC News
The Documentary Podcast What in the World: How have older reality tv shows aged?
America's Next Top Model, the reality competition series hosted by Tyra Banks, continues to face criticism years after it stopped airing. And it is not the only reality show that critics say has not aged well. From Cops to The Swan to Mr Beast's new show Beast Games, reality TV routinely courts controversy. We all know reality shows like The Traitors, Keeping Up with the Kardashians, The Real Housewives and Love Island. But how did the genre become so popular in the first place? We hear from Danielle Lindemann, a sociologist at Lehigh University and the author of True Story: What Reality TV Says About Us. She explains how shows like The Real World and Survivor helped define the genre and unpacks some of the biggest scandals from reality TV history.
Yahoo
27-02-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Little Rock figure skating club honors Washington D.C. plane crash victims
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – On Tuesday, Little Rock's Diamond Edge Figure Skating Club (DEGS) honored those in the figure skating community who died when a plane and helicopter collided in Washington D.C. last month. Authorities said 28 members of the figure skating community were among the 67 people killed when an Army helicopter collided with an American Airlines flight and crashed into the Potomac River on Jan. 29. Emotions pour from tight-knit skating community following DC plane crash carrying athletes, coaches That heartache is still being felt by members of the DEGS Club, which did a special moment of silence and skating performance before their ice show at the Arkansas Skatium. Figure Skater Monica Jackson performed a special tribute named 'The Swan' before the show started. 'It's a loss like this that is felt all over the world.' Jackson said. 'Swans are elegant and peaceful and the beauty they emote I feel comes from figure skaters.' She hopes the performance brings a sense of calm and peace to the families. 'When a loss like this happens, we all feel it,' Jackson said. 'We all rally together to embrace and lift one another up.' Evie Ellis, an ice skater coached by Jackson, said she could feel the art coming from the ice performance. 'I could really feel the emotion in her performance tonight, it's something you don't see overnight,' Ellis said. NTSB leads investigation into deadly DC plane crash Others with the club say they also set up a booth for people to write letters to the families affected and some donated money to help those families too. 'These are the people we are seeing at competitions, these are the people we are skating with or these are the people we are against,' Ellis said. 'So when one person from the club goes it's impactful for all of us.' Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.