Top south Essex pub beer gardens reopening on Super Saturday

READ MORE: Super Saturday: Inside Southend restaurants as they emerge from lockdown

Going down to the local will be a very different experience to how we remembered it, with many pubs bringing in a raft of new safety measures.

And landlords are being encouraged to make the most of any outdoor space they have to ensure customers and staff can social distance.

Thankfully south Essex has a number of pubs which offer spectacular beer gardens and plenty of space.

So if you're on the lookout for a pub with a garden today, here are just a few options you might want to consider:

The Hawk

Described as a premium pub, bar and restaurant, the Hawk is based in the picturesque village of Battlesbridge.

Punters can sit outside and enjoy some fresh air in the front garden, which will provide plenty of room to social distance.

The pub has a 4.2 star rating on Google, with reviewers largely praising the range of food, service and friendly atmosphere.

Bosses are advising customers to book a table in advance after revealing they have had “huge interest” ahead of reopening.

A one-way system will be put in place throughout the pub, while table sizes will be limited to no more than six people.

Regular cleaning of tables will be taking place to meet safety guidelines and there will be a reduced menu, meaning offers such as the midweek treat and gourmet card will not be available for the foreseeable future.

Contact 01268 767263.

The Anchor

Based right by the River Crouch, the Anchor in Hullbridge will offer customers the perfect place to unwind and enjoy some peace and quiet.

With it's large garden and decked terraces, the pub will be able to provide customers with plenty of space.

The outside seating area offers spectacular views of the river and surrounding countryside.

Bosses say they are continuing with preparations ahead of the reopening on Saturday, and have had a number of bookings.

The exact details of safety measures have yet to be announced, but the pub says there will be a number of changes made to comply with Government guidelines.

The pub has a 4.1 star rating on Google, with many reviewers highlighting its stunning location and quality food.

Contact 01702 230777.

The Plough and Sail

Tucked away in the heart of the countryside, this traditional pub is thought to have been around for more than 300 years.

The Plough and Sail is based just a few hundreds yards away from the River Roach and benefits from an idyllic beer garden.

Bosses have advised customers to book a table in advance as they say they will only be seating guests outside.

Anyone wishing to eat at the pub is also advised to book as the kitchen has limited capacity for orders.

A one-way system will be set up to help customers social distance when they go up to the bar to order food and drinks.

Floor markings have also been placed, while garden benches have been moved to ensure they are at least two metres apart.

The pub is still offering its takeaway service.

Contact 01702 258242.

The Dukes Head

This premium bar near Billericay is said to have a laidback atmosphere and stylish interiors.

But the Dukes Head also boasts its very own courtyard and beer garden to allow punters to soak up the summer sun.

The large outside seating areas means there should be plenty of space and tables to go around.

Bosses say cleaning routines will be increased to ensure safety guidelines are followed, and a deep clean has been carried out ahead of reopening.

The pub has a 4.2 star rating on Google and reviewers have singled out the countryside location and good customer service for praise.

The Dukes Head is also introducing a new menu and advising customers to book a table to avoid disappointment.

Contact 01277 651333.

The Hoop

Based along Stock High Street, the Hoop is what many would class as a traditional English pub.

It offers customers plenty of outdoor seating with its newly revamped back garden, but bosses are already warning there is limited space available due to a large number of bookings.

They say you must book a table in advance, regardless if you are planning to eat or drink.

All customers will be seated outside to aid social distancing but space will be available inside if it starts to rain.

Other social distancing measures being brought in include a one-way system and table service at all times.

The pub has a 4.6 star rating on Google, with praise reserved especially for its range of food and drinks.

Contact 01277 841137.