The Grapes, 87 Mersea Rd, Colchester CO2 7RB

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
  • The staff are always so welcoming and friendly, making you feel right at home as soon as you walk in.
  • It's got a brilliant atmosphere with fun events like music quizzes and live music nights that really get everyone in the spirit.
  • 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.
  • 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
  • The outside looks a bit unassuming, almost like a scout hut, which might make you think twice before popping in.
  • 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.
  • 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

Monday12:00 - 00:00
Tuesday12:00 - 00:00
Wednesday12:00 - 00:00
Thursday12:00 - 00:00
Friday (Today)12:00 - 00:00
Saturday12:00 - 00:00
Sunday12:00 - 00:00

Location

Recent Reviews

Go there for the music quiz always friendly staff and a good night
JS
James Scott
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?
DR
Darren Richards
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.
M
Millie
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.
IY
Ian Yates
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!
EM
Emi Morris

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