COVID restrictions have been loosened and people are allowed to finally hit the pubs for the first time this year.

However, people are still not allowed to drink inside pubs and have to sit in the beer garden. These are usually fantastic spaces in the summer but have become a necessity for the time being.

Finding the right beer garden can be a tricky task, so the Argus has done some groundwork to help punters decide on where to visit. Here are nine pub gardens that are well worth visiting.

The Shepherd and Dog in Fulking is idyllic

The Shepherd and Dog in Fulking is idyllic

Shepherd and Dog – The Street, Fulking, Henfield BN5 9LU

One of the most scenic beer gardens you’ll find. The Shepard and Dog is sat at the bottom of the South Downs and provides guests with gorgeous views of the countryside while they enjoy their drink.

HI I spoke to a gentleman called simon who has asked me to email you the details for a classic car day that i am organising at "The Fountain Inn" Ashurst, West Sussex on Sunday 2nd August. I just wondered if you would run a piece advertising the event

The Fountain Inn – Ashurst, Steyning BN44 3AP

The Fountain Inn has a lovely beer garden for its punters to visit. The venue is ‘cask marque’ accredited and offers a wide range of real ales from some notable brands to some less well known that can be fun to explore.

The New Inn

The New Inn

The New Inn – High Street, Hurstpierpoint, Hassocks BN6 9RQ

A rustic style pub. The New Inn hides a spacious beer garden behind its entrance on the main high street. Filled with tables, there is plenty of room for punters to set themselves up for a drink or two.

The Argus: The Bull InnThe Bull Inn

The Bull Inn - Goring Street, Worthing BN12 5AR

A traditional pub next to the River Adur, the Bull Inn has a massive garden able to seat plenty of visitors. The garden itself is also dog friendly so you can enjoy a nice drink with your furry friend.

Smugglers Rest, South Coast Rd, Telscombe Cliffs, Peacehaven..

Smugglers Rest, South Coast Rd, Telscombe Cliffs, Peacehaven..

The Smugglers Rest - South Coast Road, Telscombe Cliffs, Peacehaven BN10 7BE

The Smugglers Rest may be the most scenic venue on this list. Situated right on the coast, punters will enjoy amazing sea views with their refreshments.

The Bridge Inn – High St, Shoreham BN43 5DE

Another scenic setting for anyone’s return to a beer garden. The Bridge Inn overlooks the River Adur. Guests can enjoy watching boats sail up and down the river while they enjoy tasting a selection of drinks.

The Tiger Inn

The Tiger Inn

The Tiger Inn – The Green, East Dean, Eastbourne BN20 0DA

This beautiful pub has tables on the village green at the front to make their guests comfortable. Visitors will be able to refresh themselves while being sat in awe of the naturally decorated pub which creates a lovely atmosphere.

Brighton Music Hall – Kings Road Arches, 127, Brighton BN1 2FN

Not a traditional beer garden, but Brighton Music Hall is a great spot for a drink on the bustling Brighton seafront. People can also enjoy some live music from some talented singers that are often performing.

Hove Place – 37 First Ave, Hove BN3 2FH

Fancy something a bit quieter, then check out Hove Place. The venue is snuck away on First Avenue and may look small from the outside. Once punters have made their to the back they are welcomed by a lovely patio beer garden. Plus, it is filled with heaters which helps on the colder evenings.

Many of these will be booked up already so if you want to visit the best advice is to be quick on their booking systems and get yourself a spot as soon as possible.

Most pubs are asking people to book ahead of their visit, but some are leaving space open for walk-ins. Stoneham Pub and Kitchen in Portland Road, Hove are pretty much booked all weekend, but have set aside some space for walk-ins. One other pub that has space for walk-ins is the Crescent Pub in Clifton Hill, Brighton.

Ian Axel, manager at the Crescent pub said: “From now till early next week we are fully booked. We leave a couple of tables free for walk-ins but that is about it.”