Horse & Groom in Chelmsford

Ah, the Horse & Groom – it's one of those pubs that really warms the cockles, tucked away in the lovely village of Writtle just outside Chelmsford. From what I've gathered from the buzz around it, most folks are over the moon about the place; the food stands out as a real winner, with pub favourites and fresh seasonal dishes that hit the spot, especially if you're tucking into something like that mouthwatering rib of beef that's got people planning return trips. The team behind the bar and in the dining area are spot on too, always up for a chat and bending over backwards to make your visit smooth, like when they happily shifted tables out to the garden for a group on a sunny day. And speaking of the garden, it's a proper gem for whiling away an afternoon with a pint, particularly their new ale that's not only refreshing but helps out the bees – nice touch, that. It's dog-friendly as well, which is brilliant if you're out for a walk and fancy a stop-off. But, to keep it real, it's not all perfect; there've been a couple of grumbles about some dishes not quite delivering, like small portions or meals that didn't live up to the hype, such as a underwhelming sea bass that left one visitor less than impressed. Still, with an overall feel that's overwhelmingly positive, I'd say it's worth a punt – just maybe check the menu first if you're after something hearty. All in all, it's a solid choice for a laid-back evening or weekend wander, and you'll likely leave with a smile, as long as you dodge any off days in the kitchen.