About This Pub
Ah, The Hop Beer Shop – what a gem it is in Chelmsford! From what I've gathered from the reviews and their website, it's one of those places that really captures the essence of a traditional pub, where the focus is all on the beer and the company. The selection is spot on, with gravity-poured cask ales, award-winning ciders, and a bunch of continental and craft options that keep things exciting – I can imagine trying a new one each time and not being disappointed. The staff sound like absolute legends, always up for a laugh and making newcomers feel right at home, which is just what you want after a long day or a drive in. Prices are fair too, so you won't feel short-changed. On the flip side, it's a tiny spot, so if you're going on a busy night, it might feel a bit cramped, and there aren't any distractions like music, which suits some but not everyone if you're in the mood for something more upbeat. Oh, and it doesn't seem to have much in the way of food, so you'd probably want to plan for that. All in all, it's a solid choice for beer enthusiasts looking for a relaxed, conversational hangout – I'd say give it a go if you're in the area, but keep those potential quirks in mind for the best experience.
Pros and Cons
Pros
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The beer selection is absolutely brilliant – they've got a fantastic range of cask ales, ciders, and continental brews, including some top-notch Belgian options that are hard to beat.
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The staff are so welcoming and friendly; it's like popping in to chat with mates, making every visit feel relaxed and enjoyable.
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Prices are spot on for the quality – you get a cracking pint without breaking the bank, which is always a win.
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It's a proper cosy micropub with no distractions like music, so you can actually have a good natter and soak in that traditional pub atmosphere.
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The location in Chelmsford is handy, and it's open most days with a straightforward vibe that's perfect for a quick pint or a longer catch-up.
Cons
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The venue is quite small, so it can get a bit snug when it's busy, and you might struggle to find a seat on peak evenings.
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There's no music or extra entertainment, which is great for conversation but could feel a tad quiet if you're after a livelier spot.
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It seems like they might not have a full food menu – it's more about the drinks, so if you're peckish, you could end up needing to pop out for a bite.
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With it being closed one day a week and varying hours, it's worth checking ahead if you're planning a visit, especially on Sundays.
Contact Information
173 Moulsham St, Chelmsford CM2 0LD
+447748392965
Pub
Opens at 12:00
Opening Hours
Monday | Closed |
Tuesday | 12:00 - 22:00 |
Wednesday | 12:00 - 22:00 |
Thursday | 12:00 - 22:00 |
Friday (Today) | 12:00 - 23:00 |
Saturday | 12:00 - 23:00 |
Sunday | 12:00 - 18:00 |
Recent Reviews
Excellent beer in a tiny venue. It has decent prices for some quality Belgian beers in particular.
Good beer and friendly service. Just what I needed after a drive from Norwich. Will remember to return when I'm next in Chelmsford.
This is first and foremost a wonderful venue. I've been a few times post badminton with a mate & I absolutely loved it there. The beer selection is good for Essex & the prices are good too. However, it is the people that make the place & I'd definitely recommend it to those with an appreciation for beer and calm conversation. Not a rowdy joint and too right.
Lovely little place this! John is a good laugh and welcoming to new guests and old. Great selection for a pint if you fancy sitting in or out the front, and stuff to take home if you want too! Pretty cheap too!
This is a nice cosy friendly hop beer shop.
There is a good choice of Ales and ciders.
They also have lager.
There is seating indoors and out.
Definitely worth a visit of you like trying different drinks.
It has a nice atmosphere when it gets busy.
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