With the heat wave well and truly here, there's not much more tempting than a cold drink in a sunny beer garden.

We’ve compiled a list of the best beer gardens in Dorset, which are well worth a visit this summer. Know one we've missed off? Email us at digital@bournemouthecho.co.uk.

Looking for something else to do this weekend? See our list of 15 things to do in Dorset 

The Bankes Arms, Studland.

Bournemouth Echo:

The garden at the Bankes Arms - so lovely Jamie Oliver used it for a Sainsbury's advert

Situated at the start of the famous Jurassic Coast, this is an ideal base to begin exploring the surrounding sandy beaches and coastal walks.

 The enormous beer garden enjoys outstanding views out to the sea and Old Harry Rocks. The pub serves good food, has a great selection of ales from the Isle of Purbeck Brewery and well behaved dogs/children are welcome! Read our 2012 review here.

The Square and Compass, Worth Matravers.

Bournemouth Echo:

Operating as an ale house since 1776, this Dorset favourite is so old it doesn’t have a bar, it has a serving hatch.

It entertains long standing patrons, refreshes walkers and draws in music lovers with live bands most weekends.

This quirky beer garden is good for a well deserved drink and homemade pasty after a walk along dancing ledge.

Harbour Heights, Sandbanks.

Bournemouth Echo:

Just a short walk from Sandbanks beach, this bar is great for a relaxing drink when the sun is shining or a romantic cocktail when the sun is setting.

Overlooking Poole harbour and Brownsea Island, this terrace boasts stunning scenes and delicious food.

Suitable for adults that don’t mind paying for a view!

Scott Arms, Corfe Castle.

Bournemouth Echo:

This pub has arguably the best view over the majestic Purbeck countryside. The terrace looks out onto Corfe Castle and the beautiful scenery that surrounds it. 

So spectacular is the view, that a mounted telescope has become a permanent fixture in the beer garden.

The pub has history, character and atmosphere, with plenty of seating to enjoy a drink with the whole family. Read our 2009 review here.

The Rising Sun, New Milton.

Bournemouth Echo:

This family friendly pub is in a brilliant location, overlooking an open expanse of the New Forest, with horses and ponies roaming around.

There is a fun play area to keep the kids entertained whilst you are waiting for your food or having a drink.

This pub is perfect for families who love good quality pub grub.

The Alice Lisle, Ringwood.

Bournemouth Echo:

Nestled in the heart of The New Forest National Park, this pub has stunning lake views and is the perfect place for walkers, cyclists and lovers of the outdoors.

There is a great garden play area for the children to burn off some energy, but there is also a ‘child free’ area for those of you who want some peace and quiet! Read our 2012 review here

The Sloop, Poole.

Since being taken over by new management, this pub has had a big revamp.

The exterior and garden area has been refurbished and are all done to a modern standard but in keeping with the feel and charm of a traditional pub.

They often host live music and tribute acts, which make a great evening out with friends.

Nelsons Ale House, Blandford.

This family friendly pub is situated in the heart of Blandford, a historic market town full of character.

It boasts a walled and decked beer garden, serving a selection of local ales and home cooked food.

There is live music every Thursday and Saturday from 9pm, which is perfect for these long summer evenings.

Eden Garden Bar, Bournemouth.

This hidden gem can offer you refreshment in a sumptuous setting, right in the heart of Bournemouth.

The décor is modern and quirky with brightly coloured booths, tropical plants and fairy lights giving it that real ‘holiday’ feel.

Whether you’re popping in for an afternoon drink or an evening cocktail, this is the ideal place to relax and catch up with friends.

Sixty Million Postcards, Bournemouth.

Bournemouth Echo:

Situated in Bournemouth town centre, this is a great place for a laid back drink after work or a lively one at the weekend.

This pub attracts a mixed group of ages with its funky décor and big outside area.

There are lots of good beers to choose from and the burgers are highly recommended!

Fox Inn, Ansty

Bournemouth Echo:

If you want to venture into the Dorset country-side, this Inn is well worth a visit.

The garden is situated at the rear of the Inn and offers views of the Dorset countryside in a peaceful suntrap.

It is a beautiful set-up and is idyllic for those wanting to escape the crowds in the town for a tranquil drink. Read our 2013 review here

The Anchor Inn, Seatown

Bournemouth Echo:

This beach side pub is in a magical spot overlooking the Jurassic coastline.

They serve award-winning local real ales that will refresh you on a hot summer’s day.

For all the designated drivers and little ones, they have plenty of soft drinks to clench your thirst. 

Barley Mow, Colehill Wimborne

The pub grounds are extensive with large secluded decking and grassed areas.

They have ideal safe places for children and families to enjoy the summer sunshine.

Special events are held here during the summer months including music, steam engines and hog roasts. Read our feature on the Barley Mow here.

The Smugglers Inn, Osmington

Bournemouth Echo:

Not far from the village of Osmington, this Inn boasts stunning views over Portland and scenic footpaths.

It offers award winning Badger cask ales, lagers from around the world and a menu full of fresh seasonal dishes.

The Inn has a stream at the front which runs down to the sea and is picturesque on a sunny day.

Sandbanks Hotel, Sandbanks

Bournemouth Echo:

The perfect spot for a drink after a day of sunbathing, or to watch the sun set in the evening.

With direct access to the world-famous Sandbanks beach, this terrace is an area to be enjoyed by everyone.

With a bar outside serving food and drink and a play area for the kids, this hotel makes you feel like you’re on holiday abroad.

Litten Tree, Bournemouth

Bournemouth Echo:

Situated in the heart of town, this is the ideal place for die-hard sport fans.

This pub has a large decked outside seating terrace, which is the largest in Bournemouth.

They are well known for showing sport on their 14 screens with the best atmosphere on the biggest days in sport, so this is definitely one for those who don't mind it rowdy!

The Olive Branch, Wimborne

Bournemouth Echo:

This pub is located in the picturesque market town of Wimborne Minster and is easily accessible from Poole and Bournemouth.

It has a very large beer garden, which is popular in the summer for a evening of dancing and drinking when a live band is performing. Read our 2013 review here.

Compton Acres, Poole

Bournemouth Echo:

These 10 acres of beautiful gardens are the perfect location for a fun family day out.

It is of late Victorian Mixed Style design with seven distinct gardens to wander around and enjoy, as well as two cafes, a specialist plant centre and shops.

If you want a unique day out with the family and an afternoon tea and scone, then this is the place for you. Read our review from May here.

The Red Shoot, New Forest

Bournemouth Echo:

Nestled in the heart of the New Forest, this is the perfect retreat after a long walk in the country side.

Children, dogs and muddy boots are welcome in this friendly pub. There is also an indoor play area for the kids if they don’t want to play outside with the horses.