From charming, old school British boozers that serve up hoppy ales and wholesome pub grub, to lavish, contemporary gastro spots that boast wine lists as long as your arm... our county covers the full spectrum when it comes to places to score a pint. Having tried and tested a few of 'em ourselves, check out our picks of the best pubs in Essex.
Last updated on 11th September 2023
Nestled in Benfleet, The Half Crown is a lovely place to wet the whistle. While still boasting some of its original charm, including wooden rafter ceilings and a huge fireplace, it's also been lovingly updated with modern touches. Head over for sports screenings, tasty tipples and top-notch grub.
With non-stop showings of live games, including football, darts and F1, Walkabout Colchester is a sports-central hub with a difference. Watch all the big matches on the HD screens, all while enjoying a laid-back atmosphere and bevvies galore.
If you're craving hearty grub, Golden Fleece in Chelmsford is a great stop-off for tasty food. Choose from a mouthwatering brunch menu, buffet choices or pizza, alongside a delicious variety of thirsty-quenching drinks.
Around since 1841, The Travellers Friend is one of the best pubs in Essex for a Sunday lunch. Dig into mouthwatering mains, including a mushroom and cashew nut Wellington or succulent pork belly, all before heading out to the gorgeous beer garden for some sunshine sips.
One of the top hubs 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.
If you're looking for a traditional pub in Basildon, make your way over to The Beehive. Not only can you tuck into mouthwatering British bites like pie and mash while guzzling tasty tipples, but this joint is also known to have an electric atmosphere on game days and a lovely outside space.
Touting budget-friendly dishes, drinks deals and sports screenings galore, The Bull Romford is a first-class Essex drinking den. And when you're not catching the footie on the TVs inside? There's a lovely beer garden to quaff 2 for 1 cocktails in the sunshine.
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.
When it comes to Leigh-on-Sea pubs, Oakwood has got to be right up there. Not only does this place have pool and a lovely little patio for soaking up the sun on warmer days, but also top British grub accompanied by live sport and pints.
One of our favourite Chelmsford watering holes, Original Plough not only has a gorgeous beer garden space but also plenty of screens to catch any live sporting action. As for refreshments? There are cocktails, your pints of choice and plenty of flavoured spirits.
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 gourmet burgers all washed down with real ales and fine wines.
Southend-On-Sea pubs don't get much better than Alex, where colourful interiors meet bottomless brunches, sports viewing, a pool table and communal games consoles. Everything you need from your boozer? You'll find it here.
The Merchant is a Brentwood spot that boasts some seriously retro vibes, with 70s-style wallpaper and vintage patterns throughout. Located on the high street, this boozer is our top pick for a Saturday session; with cheap drinks, live sports and tasty plates aplenty.
Housed in a Grade II listed Tudor building, The Bay Horse is one of the most premium country 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 mouthwatering nosh.
Church Street Tavern is a sleek, contemporary venue housed in a 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 and steak, this is easily one of the best gastropubs in Essex.
After the best country pubs in Essex? This picturesque spot 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 great Sunday roast.
Live music is at the heart of Chinnerys. Not only does this boozer bring in the best local talent, up-and-coming stars and spectacular international acts, but has great beers on tap too. Perfect in the summer, there's a large outdoor space to chill out in too.
