From charming, old school British boozers that serve up hoppy ales and wholesome pub grub, to lavish, contemporary gastropubs that boast fine-dining dishes and tote wine lists as long as your arm... Essex covers the full spectrum when it comes to places to score a pint. Naturally, being the generous people that we are, we've 'taken one for the team' and tested the credentials of the county's finest boozers - sampling their grub and necking their pints (for 'research' of course)! Here's our list of the best pubs in Essex.
Last updated on 22nd October 2018
@ Black Rabbit on Every Sunday
Located only minutes from the river Chelmer, this Maldon High Street watering hole is a prime spot for chilled out drinks, charming service and top-notch roasts. Think mouth-watering meaty morsels with all the trimmings or veggie feasts with wine.
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!
The Shepherd & Dog is the perfect blend between traditional and contemporary. This family friendly pub in Essex boasts a mouth-watering menu of traditional British dishes - think steak and chips, bangers and mash, and liver and bacon. And to wash it all down, not only does this gastropub offer a fine selection of ales, but the bar staff here can rustle up a mean cocktail too!
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.
