About This Pub
Ah, The Ale House – it's one of those pubs that really shines when everything clicks, like when you're sinking into a pint of their excellent real ale selection, chatting with the knowledgeable staff who know their stuff about drinks. I've heard from mates that it's got this warm, old-school charm, especially with the beer garden out back for a relaxed catch-up. They've even snagged some awards, which speaks volumes about their commitment to quality brews. But, let's be straight, it's not all roses; a few folks have shared stories of feeling out of place if you're not a regular, with some staff coming across as a bit brusque or the vibe turning a bit chilly. Still, if you're up for giving it a go, it's worth popping in for the drinks alone – just keep in mind it might be best suited for those who know the lay of the land. Overall, it's a solid spot with its highs and lows, perfect for a casual night out if you go in with the right expectations.
Pros and Cons
Pros
-
The selection of real ales is absolutely spot on – they've got a superb mix of beers, lagers, wines, and even a weekly Festival of Ales that includes dark ales, making it a real treat for beer enthusiasts.
-
The staff are genuinely helpful and knowledgeable; they can recommend drinks to suit your taste, and from what I've heard, regulars and newcomers often feel right at home with their friendly chats.
-
It's got that classic old-style pub vibe, with a welcoming atmosphere for friends and families, plus a nice beer garden out the back for a bit of fresh air on a sunny day.
-
Being in Colchester, it's conveniently located and has picked up some accolades, like being a runner-up for pub of the year, which shows they're doing something right in the community.
Cons
-
It can feel a bit unwelcoming if you're not a local – some folks have mentioned strange looks from regulars and a cold reception that puts a damper on the visit.
-
There are reports of rude bar staff who might make you feel less than welcome, or even refuse service abruptly, which is a real shame for what could be a great spot.
-
The pub itself has been described as damp and negative in places, which might not make for the coziest experience, especially on a chilly evening.
-
Service inconsistencies could leave you heading elsewhere, as a few visitors have done, missing out on the potential fun.
Contact Information
82 Butt Rd, Colchester CO3 3DA
+441206573464
Pub
Opens at 16:00
Opening Hours
| Monday (Today) | 16:00 - 22:00 |
| Tuesday | 15:00 - 22:00 |
| Wednesday | 15:00 - 23:00 |
| Thursday | 15:00 - 23:00 |
| Friday | 15:00 - 23:00 |
| Saturday | 12:00 - 23:00 |
| Sunday | 14:00 - 19:00 |
Recent Reviews
Such a shame to see a lovely location go to waste! This pub is damp, and negative. If you're not a local, it's a very cold reception with strange regulars glaring at you and rude bar staff who make you feel less then unwelcome.
I have on and off for many years visited the ale house and it truly is a lovely old style pub. The regulars and new faces make you feel very welcome and Pauline, Fred, Cheryl, Val and Kat are such wonderful owners and staff (team) really does have the feel of an old country pub where family, friends and new faces are always welcome.
Went to Colchester for a pub crawl and this was our 3rd place to stop at (3rd pint) and I've been told I won't be served because "I've had enough"! Left and went to the pub opposite - no issue at all, fantastic and superb service - and I've been told by the locals, apparently that's the "normal treatment" from the woman behind the bar. We are not regulars, she didn't like the look of us (irish and polish accents) so she wouldn't serve us and all the local lads stopped going there a while ago. I'm a camra member for years and I've never been treated like this before! Will not be back and will also advise people not to visit.
Lovely pub, friendly atmosphere, great staff and licensee. The beer is always top notch, with a selection to please most. Has to be one of the best in Colchester. Give it a go!
The pub has a fine range of beers, served from the cask under gravity as well as from the pump. Staff are very friendly and interested in their beers and are responsive to clients comments. At the back there is a beer garden with tables for groups of six or so people and this is where we were served when we returned to the pub in June 2021. We had a choice of six real ales, so felt like royalty.
Nearby Pubs - Perfect Pub Crawl
Discover the 5 closest pubs to this location for an ideal pub crawl experience.
65 Butt Rd, Colchester CO3 3BZ
89/100
0.0mi
36 Chapel St S, Colchester CO2 7AX
89/100
0.2mi
2-4 Crouch St, Colchester CO3 3ES
86/100
0.2mi
1 St John's St, Colchester CO2 7AA
87/100
0.2mi
61-63 Crouch St, Colchester CO3 3EY
82/100
0.2mi