ENJOYING a refreshing cold one in a beer garden during the perfect peak of a blazing hot summer afternoon is, for many, a moment of serenity which takes some beating.

But, having your furry, four-legged friend by your side, as a chilled pint reaches your lips and you take your first gulp, really takes the experience up a notch.

There are many good places - the Angel in Shoebury and the Camelia on Thorpe Bay seafront are examples.

So, now the restaurant and pub embargo has passed, and the revellers have returned, we decided to compile a list of some dog-friendly hangouts in south Essex.

Echo:

The Peterboat, Leigh
With just under 2,000 reviews on TripAdvisor, and an overall rating of 4.5 stars, the Peterboat, in Leigh-on-Sea, is clearly popular with locals and day trippers alike.

The restaurant arm of The Peterboat specialises in seafood, which is fitting given its tranquil and stunning location overlooking the sea.  

But the gastropub’s meticulous chefs can also dish-up other types of cuisine too, such as sirloin steaks and warm baguettes, which are perfect to enjoy alongside an alcoholic beverage.

Its large beer garden is also a hit, not least during these warm summer months, and acts as a pleasant space in which your dogs can also bask in the sea breeze.

Kilkies, Leigh
Although a slightly classier establishment, dogs are still welcome at Kilkies, in Leigh, as long as they are on their best behaviour.

The family-run bar and restaurant has been a staple of the local area for 15 years, and its reputation for serving-up delicious seafood dishes has only grown over time.

Seating options are aplenty, with comfy sofas and high tables inside, and sophisticated outdoor dining areas, which your pup will revel in just as much as you.

Echo: Molo LoungeMolo Lounge

Molo Lounge, Southend Central
Unlike most of the country’s other watering holes, the Molo Lounge, in Southend Central, is yet to re-open to the public, but plans to do so next Wednesday.

It will, however, be worth the wait, especially for bar-goers who would rather not leave their pining pooch at home, eagerly awaiting their return, while they hit the town.

Located in the heart of the resort town’s hustle and bustle, the Molo Lounge boasts a unique and eye-catching internal aesthetic and serves a wide range of tasty foods.

The Mayflower, Leigh
Having recently won the CAMRA Pub of the Year Award for a third year running, The Mayflower, in Leigh, is clearly doing something right.

Although its vast range of real ales and classic pub meals is at the heart of its success, surely also being a dog-friendly environment helped win over the judges.

Dog bowls are also provided, so your pooch can take a gulp just as you do, and its pretty outside seating area positioned to the rear of the pub is a particular draw.