About This Pub
Ah, The Grapes – it's one of those hidden gems in Colchester that I've come across, and I have to say, it's got that warm, welcoming feel you'd expect from a traditional pub. From what I've gathered chatting about it with others, the staff really shine; they're always up for a laugh and make sure everyone feels included, whether you're there for a quiet drink or diving into one of their lively events like a music quiz or live gig. The drinks are spot on too – affordable and just what you need after a long day. Plus, with pool, darts, and a decent beer garden, there's plenty to keep you entertained on a sunny afternoon. But, let's be honest, it's not all perfect; the exterior is a bit drab and could easily put you off if you're driving by, and sometimes it has that social club vibe that might feel a tad ordinary if you're craving something more polished. Still, for a straightforward, good-value evening with mates, it's worth a visit – just go in with an open mind and you'll likely have a cracking time.
Pros and Cons
Pros
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The staff are always so welcoming and friendly, making you feel right at home as soon as you walk in.
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It's got a brilliant atmosphere with fun events like music quizzes and live music nights that really get everyone in the spirit.
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Drinks are reasonably priced, which is a treat these days, and the interior is clean and nicely set up with things like pool, darts, and TVs to keep things lively.
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They've got a great beer garden for those sunny days, and it's family-friendly, so it's perfect for a casual get-together.
Cons
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The outside looks a bit unassuming, almost like a scout hut, which might make you think twice before popping in.
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It can feel more like a social club or village hall at times, which isn't everyone's cup of tea if you're after a more classic pub vibe.
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There doesn't seem to be much on the food front from what folks have said, so it might not be the spot if you're looking for a proper meal with your pint.
Contact Information
The Grapes, 87 Mersea Rd, Colchester CO2 7RB
+441206544035
Pub
Opens at 12:00
Opening Hours
Monday | 12:00 - 00:00 |
Tuesday | 12:00 - 00:00 |
Wednesday | 12:00 - 00:00 |
Thursday | 12:00 - 00:00 |
Friday (Today) | 12:00 - 00:00 |
Saturday | 12:00 - 00:00 |
Sunday | 12:00 - 00:00 |
Recent Reviews
Go there for the music quiz always friendly staff and a good night
Dont let the exterior fool you! You could easily be put off by the "scout hut" style of this uninspiring architectural offering, however, Once inside you'll find a clean, nicely put together contemporary style bar with darts, pool, tv's etc. They also make the best of the otherwise fairly grim outside space at the rear with a timber structure with some tables and a huge TV, great for summer events. Small car park for only about 6 vehicles but why are you driving to the pub anyway?
Nice friendly pub, plenty of car space, I didn't eat in here, went to madness night, tribute, was great fun. Staff very friendly, good atmosphere.
I arrived here on a weekday afternoon, a little before four, and was surprised to see the place bustling with customers. Inside it looked rather like a village hall and the atmosphere was akin to a social club. A lively group, nearby to us, had selected Sweet Caroline by Neil Diamond and were joining in the singing, giving all they were worth. As a real ale drinker, I was completely out of place. For the locals, I could see it was a hit.
Went to The Grapes tonight to watch the boxing, bought two pints of lager which were very reasonably priced at £3.50 each, really nice atmosphere, everyone was really high spirited and the staff were amazingly friendly. They do have a beer garden which is great in the summer and it's also family friendly, there were kids there. They have a function hall, which, despite the amount of footfall (it's a very popular pub) is actually very clean and has two wall mounted TV's. Glass rounds were frequent, as was table cleaning. Thoroughly enjoyed my visit! New local!
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