SUMMER is fast approaching and pubs are reopening after nearly half a year of being closed.

Excitement is building across Powys with the opening of pubs and inns seen as a major step toward a return to the normality lost in March 2020 upon the onset of the public health crisis.

Drinkers and diners will be forced to make do with outdoor facilities for a while yet but, thankfully, Powys is not short of pubs with highly regarded outdoor facilities.

So where are the top ranked pubs with outdoor facilities and beer gardens in Powys.

According to Trip Adviser, the app which allows customers to rate service and quality, Powys has a few contenders.

Red Lion, Llanidloes

Red Lion, Llanidloes. Picture: Google Maps.

Red Lion, Llanidloes. Picture: Google Maps.

"Despite the Covid restrictions the staff provided a very good menu for out door eating only as per guidelines. Good quality meals despite having to be served in foil trays and the bar service provided by a waitress service. The staff appear to have a good system in place and made us very welcome." - malcolmr179.

Lion Hotel, Berriew

The Lion, Berriew. Picture: Google Maps.

The Lion, Berriew. Picture: Google Maps.

"Can't hype this little pub up enough, from the staff to the food to how quirky the inside is to a nice selection of beers and of course wine for me haha to the total atmosphere of the place.

"Both me and my partner had such an amazing night made special by wine that we like being chilled in advance for us to beautifully decorated and incredibly flavoured dishes served, garnished from the garden outback.

"It's the little touches that make this place amazing and food cooked with such homely love and passion. It has become my little escape place and will becoming regular diners here especially with such good value for money, amazing meal for affordable prices." - irishamie27.

The Waggon and Horses, Newtown

Waggon and Horses, Newtown. Picture: Google Maps.

Waggon and Horses, Newtown. Picture: Google Maps.

"Cracking pub, friendly staff, good selection of guest ales, great food and a fantastic child friendly beer garden.... perfect for sunny weekends! Close to a nice walk along the riverbank." - Phil W

Raven Inn, Welshpool

The Raven Inn, Welshpool. Picture: Google Maps.

The Raven Inn, Welshpool. Picture: Google Maps.

"As it was a warm August day, we chose to eat in the beer garden... good choice.

"Opting for specials from the board was a great choice. Food is ample and nicely cooked - typical bar menu and pub grub. Child's meal was quite substantial and freshly prepared.

"Great play area - and it was a bonus being able to enjoy a quiet drink and at same time watch our little girl play happily on the equipment.

"Worth mentioning friendliness of staff too - welcoming, chatty and made you feel 'at home' - Cortabroad.

White Horse, Builth Wells

The White Horse pub in Builth Wells

The White Horse pub in Builth Wells

"We stopped off here today en route to Aberystwyth for a bite to eat, was strolling around and came across the White Horse, the food here was delicious and great value. Staff were very also friendly and helpful. Great stop off, lovely little pub." - ValerieB

Llanerch Inn, Llandrindod Wells

Llanerch Inn. Picture: Google Maps.

Llanerch Inn. Picture: Google Maps.

"Lovely Inn, friendly and helpful staff, food great, highly recommend. The property has true character, and is ideal for everyone, great base for sight seeing, lovely walks in the town too, set in a quiet location."