IT'S summer and the sun is shining - fancy an ice cold drink in one of Warrington's beer gardens?

Today is International Beer Day - a global occasion that brings beer enthusiasts together - so no better day to enjoy a drink al fresco in the town's outdoor spaces.

Whether you're a seasoned beer connoisseur or simply enjoy a pint now and then, this day is all about friendships, laughter, and, of course, beer.

In June, we crowned The Ferry Tavern as Warrington's Best Beer Garden 2024 - the third year in a row that the popular place has won the title.

As part of our Best of 2024 competition to find the best that Warrington has to offer in a whole host of categories, we wanted to put together a shortlist of 12 of the town's top beer gardens.

Here is the top 12 - why not give one of them a try on International Beer Day 2024?

OUR 12 BEST BEER GARDEN SHORTLIST:

The Ferry Tavern

The Ferry Tavern

The Ferry Tavern, Penketh

One regular said: “Past sightings while enjoying a drink have been white ducklings, hovering owls and a seal!”

For more details go to facebook.com/theferrytavern

The Odyssey

The Odyssey

Odyssey, Bold Street

One review on their Facebook page said: “Top bar, top vibes!

“Such a nice place and we can’t wait to come back.”

For more details go to facebook.com/theodysseywarrington

Warrington Sports Club

Warrington Sports Club

Warrington Sports Club, Walton Lea Road, Warrington

This popular place is always busy especially when the sun’s out.

You can even watch live sport and live music while you enjoy your drink.

For more details go to facebook.com/profile.php?id=100049358842115

The Woodlands

The Woodlands

The Woodlands, Great Sankey

One review on their Facebook page said: “Great family pub that’s friendly with welcoming staff.”

Another recommendation said that “the garden is clean and well-kept and there are always beautiful, colourful flowers.”

For more details go to facebook.com/TheWoodiesPub

The Hatton Arms

The Hatton Arms

The Hatton Arms, Hatton

One nomination said: “The garden a real asset to the village.

“The fact the food is amazing and the staff are so hard working is just a bonus.

“Sitting out there enjoying a drink always cheers me up.”

For more details go to hattonarms.co.uk

The Cheshire Cheese

The Cheshire Cheese

The Cheshire Cheese, Knutsford Road

One nomination said: “The amount of work that has gone into improving the pub and outdoor space had been nothing short of fantastic.”

Another praised the “beautiful plants, seating and brand new outdoor stage”.

For more details go to facebook.com/profile.php?id=100057184040610

London Bridge

London Bridge

London Bridge Inn, London Road, Stockton Heath

One reviewer said: “I say London Bridge is the best!”

Another said: “A lovely pub with a great beer garden.”

For more details go to facebook.com/LondonBridgeinn

The Maltings

The Maltings

The Maltings, Old Hall

The food and drink all gets a huge thumbs up at The Maltings especially when it’s enjoyed in the beer garden.

Why not stop off for a quick drink on a sunny afternoon walk through Sankey Valley Park – dogs are welcome!

For more details go facebook.com/maltingswarrington

The Seven Woods

The Seven Woods

The Seven Woods, Westbrook

One nomination said: “Nothing beats The Seven Woods.

“They know how to make people feel at home.”

For more details go to facebook.com/SevenWoodsWestbrook

The Pickering Arms

The Pickering Arms

The Pickering Arms, Thelwall

The sun terrace welcomes visitors to The Pickering Arms.

Fancy drinks and a bite to eat in the sunshine?

For more details go to facebook.com/pickeringarmsthelwall

The Kings Head

The Kings Head

The Kings Head, Winwick Street

One review on their Facebook page said: “Best pub ever and it’s always full of great friendly people, great bar staff and has a great atmosphere.”

For more details go to facebook.com/kingshead123

The Rams Head

The Rams Head

The Rams Head, Church Lane, Grappenhall

One customer said there’s “a great outside area” here and another loved their alfresco terrace space.

There are sunny spots and shady retreats – perfect for the whole family.

For more details go to facebook.com/TheGrappenhallRamsHead