Although we thought beer garden weather was over, it seems there is unusual October sunshine on the horizon in County Durham.

With this in mind, you might want to make the most of the last bits of warm sunshine and grab your friends for a pint or two this weekend.

Here is a selection of some of the best places to visit with a beer garden in the county according to their Tripadvisor reviews - each rating has a minimum of 4.0.

Some of the best beer gardens in County Durham

Half Moon Inn

Location: 86 New Elvet, Durham, DH1 3AQ

Rating: 4.5

One customer wrote this review: “Came here for a catch up with some old school friends on Thursday afternoon.

“Fantastic atmosphere and cosy decor. Everywhere was very clean and tidy, even the bathrooms which you don’t get everywhere!

“The views from the beer garden looked stunning, will definitely be back in the summer when is not pouring down!

“The guys loved the beer selection and us girls got right into the cocktails and they even had a great selection of alcohol free options for our designated driver!!

@thewoodmaninndurham Summer is coming!! 🍻🥂 #beergarden #dh1 #durhamnghtlife ♬ suono originale - onxlyfast

“Our server, Freddy was great, so friendly and welcoming and very informative on the drinks menu, he makes a mean Espresso Martini. Fantastic afternoon and we’ll be back!”

The Crow’s Nest

Location: East Shore Village, North Road, Seaham, SR7 7XR

Rating: 4/5

This user said: “We came in for a few pints after work, and we’re greeted with a gorgeously organised pub, lovely beer garden, lots of events scheduled for jubilee weekend and helpful friendly staff that served us quickly and happily.

“I really appreciate Lauren Rowntree for her hard work that day. Great atmosphere, perfect for after-work drinks on a sunny day!”

The Boat Club & Tomahawk Steakhouse

Location: Elvet Riverside, Durham, DH1 3AF

Rating: 4/5

A visitor wrote: “Very nice location nice to sit in the beer garden in the sun next to the river. Very relaxed and reasonably priced.”

Hardwick Hall Hotel

Location: Hardwick Hall Hotel, Sedgefield, TS21 2EH

Rating: 4/5

One person commented: “Called in here last week after work and spent a few hours in the very extensive beer garden - very impressed!!

“There are about 50 well spaced tables in a great location overlooking the lake - fantastic as the sun went down!. There is an outside bar and toilets with plenty of hand sanitizing stations. The staff, two young guys, were very friendly and gave me a good summary of the facilities and opening times etc. I look forward to visiting again soon !!”

Lord Crewe Arms

Location: The Square, Blanchland, Consett, DH8 9SP

Rating: 4.5/5

This reviewer said it's "well worth a visit", adding: “Wonderful village to visit and this pub is the icing on the cake. Was staying at the nearby Springhouse Caravan Park and were advised to visit this village and pub.

“The bar used to be the Crypt!! Built in 1165 and still going strong. The beer was fine and the food was lovely, the outside beer garden just amazing. Well worth a visit.”

The Head of Steam Durham

Location: 3 North Road, Durham, DH1 4RZ

Rating: 4.5/5

“Nice place for a drink on an afternoon or an evening. Going to become a regular watering hole for myself and others," posted this Tripadvisor account.

“Good draught and cans options available and a pretty nice brunch menu too actually. The terrace is ace as well and the team couldn’t be anymore helpful!”

Ye Old Elm Tree

Location: 12 Crossgate, Durham, DH1 4PS

Rating: 4.5/5

A customer said: “This is the best pub in Durham. Mint staff, great beer, lovely beer garden.

"Love taking my dog here as there are always lots of friendly dogs and people for her to socialise with, staff always give her treats and water.

“I’m coeliac too and there’s always gf beer and sometimes great gf ales.

"Great live folk music during the week and Durham’s toughest pub quiz on a Wednesday. Lovely mix of students and locals. Can’t think of a better pub tbh!"