Main Rd, Howe Street, Great Waltham, Chelmsford CM3 1BG

About This Pub

Oh, let me tell you about Galvin Green Man – it's this charming pub tucked away in the Essex countryside, in a building that's been around since 1341, which just gives it that timeless, cosy feel you'd love for a catch-up with friends. The food's a standout; they've got these thoughtful, seasonal dishes that make you appreciate good British pub fare, like their roasts or steaks, and it's all backed by that Bib Gourmand nod for being excellent value. I love how they cater to all sorts, even with solid vegan options that surprised a few folks in the reviews. The service is another winner – it's that attentive, personal touch that makes you feel looked after without being over the top. And don't get me started on the events; steak nights, live music in the garden, and summer specials like Wimbledon celebrations add such a lively twist to the place. On the flip side, though, it's not all perfect – one review mentioned soggy fries ruining the steak experience, which is a shame because it highlights how the little things can trip up an otherwise stellar meal. Plus, with prices on the moderate side, it might not be your go-to for a casual night out, but save it for when you want to treat yourself. Overall, it's a solid choice for anyone after a proper pub day out – the highs definitely outweigh the lows, and I'd say it's worth a visit if you're in the area.

Pros and Cons

Pros
  • The food is absolutely top-notch, with fresh, seasonal ingredients and a Bib Gourmand award that really shows in dishes like their roasts and steaks – it's all about that hearty, flavoursome British pub grub done right.
  • Service is warm and spot-on, making every visit feel personal and welcoming, like chatting with old mates behind the bar.
  • The atmosphere is just lovely in that historic 1341 building, set in the Essex countryside – perfect for a relaxed evening, with events like steak nights and live music adding a fun buzz.
  • They've got a great range of options for different tastes, including vegan choices and special events, so it's easy to find something to suit everyone.
Cons
  • Some sides can let the meal down, like those soggy fries that came with a steak – it's a small thing, but it can take the edge off an otherwise great dish.
  • It might feel a bit pricey for everyday pub grub, even though it's moderate, so it's best for special occasions rather than a quick pint.

Contact Information

Main Rd, Howe Street, Great Waltham, Chelmsford CM3 1BG
+441245408820
Pub
Closed today

Opening Hours

Monday11:00 - 23:00
Tuesday11:00 - 23:00
Wednesday11:00 - 23:00
Thursday11:00 - 23:00
Friday11:00 - 23:00
Saturday11:00 - 23:00
Sunday (Today)11:00 - 23:00

Location

Recent Reviews

I had the rib eye steak cooked medium, and the food overall was nice. The steak was flavorful and cooked as requested. However, it came with fries that were left sitting in the sauce, which made them soggy—definitely a letdown. I’d say the fries were quite poor because of that. I also tried the garlic with focaccia bread, and unfortunately, that wasn’t nice at all—bland and disappointing. On a positive note, the service was lovely. The waitress was nice and friendly, which added a pleasant touch to the experience.
AH
A H
Had an incredible roast today with excellent service. I had the Imam Bayaldi [roasted eggplant with cumin yoghurt]. Husband had the Torched Fillet of mackerel. Absolutely delicious. For mains I had the roast sirloin and my husband had the porchetta. Service excellent. Highly recommend this spot.
SS
Sara-Jane Shore
We were lucky to get a Valentine’s Day booking at Galvin Green Man; the food was great, the service amazing and personalised (thanks Emma!) and even though we were seated in the pub, the atmosphere was wonderful and the table was spacious. As a vegan, I was apprehensive about the set menu, but I was reassured on the phone before our booking that there would be options. On the day, I was very pleasantly surprised by the quality of the food, each menu item was delicious and both my non-vegan boyfriend and I agreed that the mushroom risotto was the best we both had ever had. Overall, I would highly recommended Galvin for both those who have dietary requirements and those who are happy to have anything on the menu. The portion sizes were generous, the quality of the food was high and the service was fantastic.
GW
Gabi Williamson
This was our second visit, and once again, it was a fantastic experience. We enjoyed starting the evening with a drink in the pub side, which has a great selection of drinks. The service on both visits was attentive and friendly, adding to the overall welcoming atmosphere. The food was truly excellent—refined, well-balanced, and anything but ordinary. A standout dish this time was their special celebration dish featuring Boudin Blanc, which was delightfully flavorful and expertly prepared. The selection of wines is also excellent. Overall, two wonderful nights at this restaurant, and we’ll definitely be returning. If I had one suggestion, white tablecloths would add a touch of elegance and help soften the noise, creating an even more perfect dining experience. Highly recommended!
BC
Bruno Collignon
January 25, 2025, I attended the Burns Night celebration at Galvin Green Man, a historic pub and restaurant near Chelmsford, Essex. The evening was a delightful blend of Scottish tradition and culinary excellence. The event featured a four-course menu priced at £48 per person, accompanied by Scottish bagpipes and the traditional haggis ceremony. The dishes were thoughtfully prepared, reflecting the restaurant's commitment to seasonal and local ingredients. The ambiance was enhanced by the historic setting of the pub, which dates back to 1341, providing a cozy and authentic atmosphere. The staff were attentive and knowledgeable, contributing to a memorable experience. While the food was exceptional, the overall experience of the Burns Night celebration at Galvin Green Man was truly enjoyable, offering a perfect blend of tradition, atmosphere, and high-quality cuisine.
TA
Tracy ANDERSON

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