Pubs in Essex

Located in Matching Green, this charming watering hole straddles the borders between Hertfordshire and Essex. With a gorgeous beer garden and cosy spaces inside, this is ideal at any time of year. Expect classic dishes like chargrilled lobster, baked seabass and gourmet burgers all washed down with real ales and fine wines.

How could we not include this historic spot? Around since 1841, this boozer is a go-to for all your weekday drinks, Sunday roasts and quiz night needs. It's also got a great beer garden for those summer months and a beautiful dining room, making it an easy spot to while away an afternoon or two whilst nibbling on their delicious menu - also catering for veggies an vegans. 

This gorgeous Brentwood pub boasts some seriously retro vibes, with 70s style wallpaper and vintage patterns throughout. Located on the high street, The Merchant is our top pick for a Saturday session; with cheap drinks, live sports and tasty plates aplenty.

This lively pub in Colchester features colourful interiors, a suntrap beer garden and a menu of classic pub dishes. Looking for somewhere to watch live sport in Essex? This place is always buzzing with match day punters as screens show all of the latest fixtures.

Over in the historic village of Stansted Mountfitchet, Essex, The Linden is the stylish restaurant and bar that serves up upmarket British grub and tasty cocktails. Need to stay the night? This place also boasts cosy rooms and luxe decor.

One of the best pubs in Brentwood, O'Neill's is famous for its fresh pints of Guinness and classic Irish hospitality. Go for the booze, but stay for bottomless pizza brunch, DJs on the weekends and some hearty grub.

Head down to this picturesque, countryside pub and you'll be greeted by all sorts of traditional awnings - think boutique furniture, roaring fireplaces and a big ol' wooden bar. But more than just a charming venue, this Brentwood boozer has a friendly team of bar staff who are happy to pull your pints all day long. But even better than that, The Greyhound dishes up one of the best Sunday roasts in Essex! 

Church Street Tavern is a sleek, contemporary venue housed in decadent building, which originates all the way back to 1852 when it was built as a savings bank. Boasting a full brasserie-style menu of the freshest seafood, steaks and more, this is easily one of the best gastropubs in Essex. On top of its exceptional dishes, this tavern prides itself on its charming and friendly atmosphere - it's quickly become the social hub of Colchester. 

Housed in a grade II listed Tudor building, The Bay Horse is one of the most picturesque pubs in Essex. But this is much more than just a pretty face. Boasting an award-winning seasonal menu, this gastropub will satiate your belly rumblings with some mouth-watering nosh. And to add to that, The Bay Horse also boasts a truly exceptional wine list - from light and fruity bottles to rich and velvety ones, hailing from all around the globe. 

The Townhouse Bar and Kitchen has cemented itself as one of the best pubs in Southend. Sitting pretty just shy of the seafront, this is a cracking spot to grab a few beers and a delicious pub lunch on your days out to the beach. Tuck into a menu of affordable classic British dishes such as the 'beer-battered haddock' or the 'butternut squash and chestnut mushroom wellington'. Perfect with a pint. 

Live music is at the heart of Chinnerys. Not only do they bring in the best local talent, up-and-coming stars and spectacular international acts, but they have great beers on tap too. Perfect in the summer, there's a large outdoor space to chill out in too.