We put a call out to the readers of Oakham Nub News to let us know about the top beer gardens in Rutland - and the results are in.

We asked and you answered, providing the local Nub News community with your top recommendations for outdoor venue to enjoy a spot of lunch and beer now that the summer is here.

Despite being the smallest in the country, Rutland is a varied county with a range of pubs and bars, from gastro and Michelin starred restaurants to affordable watering holes and family spots.

Have you tried The Lord Nelson in Oakham Market Place? Image credit: Nub News.

First up, with two votes, is the Wheatsheaf in Oakham.

Rutland has four pubs called the wheatsheaf, which is unsurprising with the farming history across the county, but the favourite for a summer time brew in the sun has got to be Oakham's Wheatsheaf, located on Northgate.

Residents Mike and Karen both highlighted this as their favourite.

Karen said: "The Wheatsheaf has a lovely garden, and the beer is good too."

Another Oakham pub that got multiple recommendations was The Hornblower on Oakham High Street.

Colin said: "It has great gardens and it's always a pleasure to sit out in the front and watch the world go by. It's nice and cool inside, and there's plenty of choice and beer."

Oakham had no shortage of pubs recommended, with owner of The Angler on Mill Street sharing the news that his rebranded family pub has recently reopened its beer garden.

The Buttercross in Oakham, just off the A606 also got a shoutout as a great spot to take kids.

The Buttercross is named after the historic feature in the heart of Oakham. Image credit: Nub News.

Residents Lindsay and Kathy both suggested The Fox in North Luffenham for food, taking the search for the best of the best out of Rutland's county town.

Kathy added: "I recently had a lovely lunch at the Fox, North Luffenham."

Lindsay runs The Crown Tavern in Oakham and loves to support local businesses.

The Crown Tavern is a popular sport for sports fans, local teams and social drinkers. Image credit: The Crown Tavern.

Lindsay and long-term partner Ian recently got married, and she used a range of local businesses to cater and host the beautiful event. See pictures and find out about the day here.

Finally, The Fox and Hounds in Knossington got a lovely shout out after seeing 6 months of major changes and additions to their busy schedule.

The pub has recently opened its new terrace and launched a drinks offer - oh, and extended its opening hours. Find out more here.

Next weekend, the country pub will be hosting its very first beer festival.

The Fox and Hounds in Knossington can be found at 6 Somerby Road. Image credit: The Fox and Hounds.

If you prefer to stay in for your drinks, check out our regular Cocktail of the Week feature, shared every Friday to get the weekend started.

Thanks for getting involved and let us know if we missed your favourite pub gardens, which ones you love and why, by emailing [email protected].