It's certainly been a scorcher so far this week, hasn't it?
We reckon there's one thing that you can't beat on a hot day - and that's a nice cold drink in a picturesque beer garden.
We've certainly got a few of those here in Leicestershire, with stunning views for you to enjoy, from reservoirs to lush green fields.
Plus, many of them also have play areas - which gives you the chance to relax whilst the children have fun.
Here's what we reckon are 11 of the best beer gardens in Leicestershire....
The Bradgate, Newtown Linford
Close to popular beauty spot Bradgate Park, The Bradgate boasts a huge outdoor area complete with a children's pirate ship, climbing frame and play area.
Food is served seven days a week, and is made using fresh local produce. Booking is recommended for those wanting to dine.
Address: Main Street, Newtown Linford, LE6 0AE.
The Pug and Greyhound, Great Glen
This 'neighbourhood pub and kitchen' has a lovely beer garden, complete with outside bar.
Plus, you can see the Shetland ponies and goats that live in the neighbouring field.
There's a wide choice of food available, including stone-baked pizzas, sharing platters, burgers and salads.
Address: 14 London Road, Great Glen, LE8 9GF.
The Bewicke Arms, Hallaton
This lovely 16th Century pub is in the centre of Hallaton, and each year on Easter Monday it is at the heart of the traditional Hallaton Bottle Kicking action!
It serves local beers and a seasonally-changing menu made with local produce, such as pork and beef from Waterloo Cottage Farm in Great Oxendon.
Plus, there's a fantastic terrace and beer garden from where you can enjoy views of the rolling Leicestershire hills.
Address: 1 Eastgate, Hallaton, LE16 8UB.
The White Horse, Birstall
This Birstall pub was originally been created as an alehouse to serve the Grand Union Canal traffic and workers in the 1790s.
The White Horse was modernised and rebuilt in the 1920s to how you see it today.
There's a large beer garden which overlooks the Grand Union Canal and a children's play area.
You can enjoy home-cooked food and a great range of beers, wines and spirits.
There’s regular live music, quiz nights and charity events - including an annual duck race.
Address: White Horse Lane, Birstall, LE4 4EF.
The Rose and Crown, Thurnby
This charming thatched village pub - which dates back to the 16th Century - serves great beer and freshly prepared food, using local ingredients where possible.
There's stunning south-facing terraced gardens - where you can enjoy wonderful views across the valley.
Address: 45 Main Street, Thurnby, LE7 9PJ.
Things to do in Leicestershire
The Anne of Cleves, Melton Mowbray
The oldest pub in Melton Mowbray, The Anne of Cleves boasts a beautiful beer garden.
Part of the property dates back to 1327 when it was home to chantry monks.
The pub gets its name from one of Henry VIII’s wives, as the property was gifted to Anne of Cleves by Henry VIII as part of their divorce settlement.
The owners are passionate about food and believe in using the freshest, best possible ingredients in all of the dishes.
Address: 12 Burton Street, Melton Mowbray, LE13 1AE.
The Queen's Head, Saddington
This is a traditional pub, offering good food made with the best local produce, and local beers.
Guests can also enjoy fantastic views over the rolling hills of south Leicestershire and Saddington Reservoir.
The large garden includes a children's play area.
Address: Main Street, Saddington, LE8 0QH.
The Shires Inn, Peatling Parva
The Shires is lovely village pub, which does an excellent Sunday roast (click here to read our review).
It is set in three acres of rolling Leicestershire countryside and boasts its own babbling brook running through the garden, as well as a great children's play area and large outdoor dining area.
Address: Main Street, Peatling Parva, LE17 5PU.
The Badgers Sett, Cropston
Close to Cropston Reservoir, The Badgers Sett is a country pub with plenty of rural charm.
Its picturesque surroundings provide the ideal backdrop for savouring the seasonal pub food, such as pizzas, salads and sharing platters.
Address: Reservoir Road, Cropston, LE7 7GQ.
The Oat Hill, Market Harborough
The Oat Hill is a stylish modern bar and restaurant, which also has a beautiful gardens.
They are accessible through the building, opening onto patio areas with steps to a covered seating area and large lawns.
Address: 31 Kettering Road, Market Harborough, LE16 8AN.
The Birch Tree, Bardon Hill
This pub may be in a busy area, but head out the back to the beautiful beer garden and you'll feel like you're in the countryside. You can also enjoy some quality beers and homemade food.
Address: Bardon Road, Coalville, LE67 1TL.
