Sun’s Out, Pints Out: 10 Greater Manchester Beer Gardens You Need to Visit This Summer

You know what it’s like round here — we wait all year for a bit of sun, and when it comes, you’ve got to make the most of it. There’s nothing better than finding a good beer garden, ordering your favourite pint, and just settling in. No rush, no fuss. Just that warm feeling of knowing you’re in the right place at the right time.

Over the years, I’ve found that every borough in Greater Manchester has at least one of those special spots. The kind of place where the garden’s just right, the atmosphere’s friendly, and you’d happily lose an afternoon there. Some are tucked away, some are well-known, but all of them have that little spark — something that keeps you coming back.

So, with a heatwave on the cards, I thought it was time to share some of my favourites — one from each borough, places that show off just how good we’ve got it when the sun shines.

Bury – The Red Lion, Hawkshaw

Tucked away in the village of Hawkshaw, The Red Lion is everything a country pub should be. It’s surrounded by green hills and fresh air, but still close enough for a quick drive out of town. The beer terrace here is quite big, and full of life when the weather’s right. On sunny days, locals and walkers alike gather to enjoy hearty food, local ales, and a peaceful, friendly vibe. What people love most is how unspoilt it feels — proper character, no frills, just a good spot to relax.

Bolton – The Southfields, Westhoughton

The Southfields is a modern pub with a real community feel, and its garden is one of the best-kept secrets in Bolton. It’s spacious, well-kept, and perfect for families or a catch-up with mates. The food’s always spot-on, but it’s the atmosphere that stands out — friendly staff, a crowd that feels like locals even if you’re new, and space to breathe. There’s a warmth here, and when the sun hits, it becomes one of those places you don’t want to leave in a hurry.

Manchester – The Metropolitan, West Didsbury

A cornerstone of West Didsbury’s social scene, The Met has one of the biggest and liveliest beer gardens in the city. It’s where South Manchester comes to life in the summer — packed but not cramped, buzzing but never too loud. There’s plenty of seating, umbrellas for shade, and that perfect mix of young couples, families, and groups of friends. Great drinks, solid food, and an atmosphere that feels like a celebration of every sunny day we get.

Oldham – The Colliers Arms, Chadderton

The Colliers Arms is a proper pub. No nonsense, just good beer, good people, and a cracking beer garden that locals swear by. It’s the kind of place where everyone knows someone, and you’re welcomed in like you’ve been coming for years. The garden’s big, with space to sit and enjoy a cold one while the world slows down, and a play set to keep the kids busy. In a town built on graft, this is a place to rest and laugh — a slice of what makes Oldham tick.

Rochdale – Owd Betts, Ashworth Moor

Sat high up near Ashworth Moor Reservoir, Owd Betts offers views that are worth the trip alone. The pub itself is steeped in history, and the garden? Well, it’s something special. Sit out front for sweeping vistas over the hills, or round the back for a more secluded, cosy feel. The moorland breeze, the sound of the countryside, and a pint in hand — it’s hard to beat. It’s the kind of place that reminds you how close Manchester is to proper beauty.

Salford – The Old Pint Pot, Adelphi

This place is a bit of a hidden gem, set right on the River Irwell. The Old Pint Pot has a tiered beer garden that looks out over the water — you can hear the river, see the trees, and feel like you’re somewhere else entirely. But it’s still got that Salford edge: creative, a bit rough-round-the-edges, and full of character. Live music, good beer, and a crowd that makes you feel at home. If you know, you know.

Stockport – The Arden Arms, Town Centre

Right in the heart of Stockport, The Arden Arms is a historic pub with real soul. It’s known for its snug rooms and top-notch food, but the beer garden out back is a quiet treasure. Surrounded by brick and filled with charm, it’s a peaceful spot to sit with a pint of something well-kept and just take it all in. Stockport’s on the up, and places like this are why — tradition, pride, and a proper welcome.

Tameside – Ego at The Hartshead Inn, Ashton-under-Lyne

Tucked into the valley beneath Hartshead Pike, this spot offers a beer garden surrounded by green fields and quiet views. You’re not high up here, but wrapped in countryside, with the hills gently rising around you — it feels peaceful, like a proper break from town life. Ego at The Hartshead Inn leans more towards the restaurant end of the pub scale, with Mediterranean-inspired dishes and a menu that’s a bit pricier than your usual boozer. But for some, the setting, the food, and the fresh feel of the place make it worth that little extra. The garden’s open, well-kept, and ideal for long lunches or evening drinks — whether it’s worth the spend? That’s up to you.

Trafford – The Old Hall, Altrincham

Dating back to the 17th century, The Old Hall is full of character, with a huge beer garden that’s perfect for families and big groups. Right in Altrincham, but with a feel of somewhere older, calmer. The garden’s got plenty of space, shaded spots, and a good buzz when the sun’s shining. It’s the kind of place where you can stay all afternoon, chatting away as the town moves gently around you.

Wigan – The Crooke Hall Inn, Crooke Village

Beside the canal in the sleepy village of Crooke, this pub is a step back in time. The beer garden stretches right to the water’s edge, with boats drifting past and a calm that feels miles away from the everyday. It’s all about the simple things here — a well-poured pint, a friendly nod, and the kind of peace you don’t often find. It’s Wigan’s best-kept secret, and a perfect place to let the hours slip by.

Something Special’s Brewing…

These are just 10 of the many great beer gardens across Greater Manchester — but we know there are more out there. Pubs with real character. Views that stay with you. That one spot where everything just feels right.

And soon, we’ll be sharing something that dives deeper into those places. A new series called “Best Seat in the House” is on its way — where we go looking for the pubs, the pints, and the views that make this city-region what it is.

Because sometimes it’s not just about the beer. It’s about the people, the stories, and finding that perfect seat — wherever it might be.

Keep an eye out. The best seat’s waiting.