WHEN the sun is shining and it's May bank holiday, many people want to take advantage of the nice weather and head outdoors.

Whether it’s a full day hike or a gentle stroll through some of Warrington’s quieter and more picturesque spots, there are a few popular pubs that would make the ideal stop off for refreshments.

Warrington Guardian: The Walton ArmsThe Walton Arms

The Walton Arms, Chester Road

You can enjoy a day out at Walton Gardens or a walk along The Bridgewater Canal towpath, which forms part of the larger Cheshire Ring Canal walk, linking six historic canal paths in the area.

The pub, which is just two minutes from Walton Gardens and the canal, was built in 1800 and rebuilt in 1875 serving as a halt for horse-drawn buses.

The menu features hearty favourites and country pub classics and the well-stocked bar includes cask ales, fine wine and a wide range of British gins, which can all be enjoyed in the beer garden.

For more details go to vintageinn.co.uk/restaurants/north-west/thewaltonarms#

Warrington Guardian: The Rams Head InnThe Rams Head Inn

The Rams Head Inn, Church Lane, Grappenhall

Right on the cobbles of Grapenhall, The Rams Head Inn has a huge selection of beers, cask ales, gins and whiskeys as well as a popular food menu featuring fish and chips, rump steaks and Sunday roasts.

Why not walk along the towpath next to the Bridgewater Canal and pause for a drink or a bite to eat?

For more details go to facebook.com/ramsheadgrappenhall

Warrington Guardian: The Black SwanThe Black Swan

The Black Swan, Manchester Road, Hollins Green

This charming country pub in the centre of Hollins Green offers a warm welcome and a friendly atmosphere with fine food and drink, regular entertainment and 14 guest bedrooms.

You could walk along the Manchester Ship Canal or even enjoy the nearby Warburton Park before stopping off here for some refreshments.

For more details go to facebook.com/blackswanatrixton

Warrington Guardian: The MaltingsThe Maltings

The Maltings, Bewsey Farm Close, Old Hall

You could start your walk at Sankey Bridges and head up towards Callands, stopping at The Maltings en route.

This dog friendly pub is right in the heart of Sankey Valley Park near Bewsey Old Hall at the edge of Sankey Canal.

You could follow the Sankey Canal Trail to St Helens or Widnes if you wanted to stride out and make a day of it.

For more details go to facebook.com/maltingswarrington

Warrington Guardian: The Pickering ArmsThe Pickering Arms

The Pickering Arms, Bell Lane, Thelwall

Nestled in Thelwall along the Manchester Ship Canal, this is the perfect place to pause for refreshments if you’re out enjoying a walk in the summer sunshine.

The traditional pub offers rustic charm and al fresco dining where you can sip a cocktail on the lawn or a pint in the beer garden.

For more details go to facebook.com/pickeringarmsthelwall

Warrington Guardian: The Ferry TavernThe Ferry Tavern (Image: supplied)

The Ferry Tavern, Station Road

This unique pub is located on the banks of the River Mersey, the Saint Helens Canal and on the Trans Pennine Trail.

It’s the perfect place to stop off and enjoy a cold drink outside in the sunshine having recently won Warrington’s Best Beer Garden 2022 award.

They serve real ales, ciders and wines and have pop up food nights courtesy of Snoutwood and Cheshire Pizza Company.

For more details go to facebook.com/theferrytavern