During lockdown, us Ayrshire folk did whatever we could to keep busy. Some of us ran 5ks, some of us baked banana bread and some of us completed Netflix.
But as locals agonised over ways they could re-create the same buzz and hilarity of being back in a pub with mates, one popular past time that perhaps had the best pay-off was building a bar in our very own back garden.
With this in mind, we asked our readers in North Ayrshire to send in their creation in the hopes of finding the best garden boozers in all the land. Despite hundreds of fantastic contributions, we managed to whittle it down to just 10.
So without further a-do, here are the top 10 pubs built in lockdown. Bottom's Up...
10. The Hangover Hut by Fiona Johnston
We suppose the clue is in the name - you may feel a bit fragile after having a few drinks in this garden pub! The Hangover Hut is kitted out not only with a very professional-looking bar top but also a refrigator to keep your cans cool and a comfy sofa to chill out on. The neon sign is a great addition, too. Good stuff, Fiona.
9. Alanna Hume and family's contribution
Christina Devine sent in this garden pub on behalf of Alanna Hume and we are very impressed, not only because it looks colourful, bright and fun but because this was made all from recycled wood and nails. It was also all put together by three young girls and their dad so this one is very deserving of a place in the top 10. Well done, guys.
8. Scott Smith's cosy corner
Fair play to Scott who has made a very decent job of this garden hut transformation. This looks like a cosy, traditional-looking pub which we will have all missed during those months of isolation. With a big telly and what looks like plenty of drink to go around, this is a very inviting space indeed. And very unassuming from the outside...
7. Jamie Wright's lockdown project
Jamie should be super proud of this creation which includes lots of funky decor, a cosy seating area, quirky wall hangings and of course a TV to watch the Euros in style. Now that restrictions have eased slightly, whether Jamie is having pals round or hosting more of a family affair, this looks like a great space to reconnect and have a good time.
6. John Harnett's cool creation
With the distinctive brick wallpapering, barstools and bunting, it seems John put a lot of time and effort into making this a very modern but homely pub. The space is complete with some drip trays, bar mats and coasters, presumably making you feel like you're having a pint in your local. Not bad!
5. Scott Mcleod also having a bash...
Keeping on a similar theme, Scott's bar looks ultra stylish and very snazzy. The wooden bar contrasts nicely with the brick wallpepering and the yellow and grey themed sofa and hanging finish it off nicely. We can imagine a few cocktails being rustled up in here...
4. Wullie Muirhead's hideout
Although gatherings were a no-go during lockdown, Wullie is certainly channeling the party vibes here with some decorative flags, bar lights, stools, drinks and even a TV to boot. This creation could even pass for a mini beer garden. We're sure everyone is happy with the end result on this one.
3. Paul White's humble efforts
Paul has got quite the set up going on here. Fire lit, football on and what looks like plenty of refreshments behind the bar to keep him and his guests going. The bar itself looks very professional and there is even a hot tub nearby, too...
Very nice!
2. Kris Govans' lock-in
Looking very atmospheric and almost like a nightclub is Kris' bar out the back. With nice interior, a television, bar stools, a mini fridge and cool laminate flooring, you could easily turn day into night while having a good knees up with your family in here.
1. And the winner is... Anne Wilson!
Despite all the fantastic entries from readers across Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald and Irvine Times, we have to give it up to Anne Wilson for this luxurious and very glam-looking lockdown pub, which you wouldn't believe was situated in a back garden! With plush grey carpets, a teal satin settee, food, drink, bar space AND expansive outdoor seating, it really stood out. Cheers, Anne!
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