The Bell in Braintree

You know, when I think about The Bell in Braintree, it just brings a smile to my face – it's one of those pubs that feels like a proper local haunt, especially with the new owners stepping in and making everything so welcoming. They're incredibly accommodating, always up for a chat, and they've got this great lineup of events like 80s discos and quizzes that really get the crowd going and foster that community spirit. The bar's well-stocked, and the whole place is kept impeccably clean, which is something you don't always find but makes a big difference when you're relaxing with a drink. On the flip side, the hours are a tad restricted, usually kicking off around tea time and wrapping up fairly early, and it's shut one day a week, so you might have to plan around that. Plus, if you're fancying a bite to eat, it's not clear what's on offer, so it might not be the spot for a full meal out. All in all, though, it's a solid choice for a relaxed night out – I'd say give it a go if you're in the area, as the positives far outweigh the little niggles, and it's got that genuine, homely charm that'll have you coming back for more.