Ocean's Braintree (formally the Swan)

Ah, Ocean's Braintree – what a gem it must have been in its heyday, based on the glowing stories from folks who've been there. From what I've gathered from the reviews, it's got this inviting atmosphere where the staff are always up for a chat and the live music nights sound like absolute belters, making it a top pick for a laugh with mates or even special occasions like weddings. The beer selection gets high marks too, especially the stouts, and it's clear this place knows how to keep things lively with quick service and a welcoming feel. But, let's be straight, it's not all pints and cheers; a few reviews hint that things have taken a turn, with one chap mentioning it's sadly winding down or changing to something more fancy, which feels like a real shame for us local pub lovers. The lack of recent buzz and that dodgy website make it a bit of a mystery now, and the exterior might not wow you straight away. Still, if you're in Braintree and fancy giving it a go, it's worth popping in for a drink – just keep your expectations in check and enjoy the good bits while they're there. All in all, it's got that classic pub charm, but with a few rough edges that show it's not perfect.