The Horse & Groom in Braintree

Ah, The Horse & Groom in Braintree – it's one of those pubs that feels like a staple in the community, with a solid 4.1 rating from folks who've popped in. From what I've gathered chatting about it, the highlights are the staff who can be absolute gems, making you feel right at home with their cheerful service – I mean, hearing about Jon going out of his way to ensure a good time really warms you up to the place. It's also great that it's open every day from around 11 in the morning, giving you plenty of chances for a casual pint or a meet-up, and the food situation is pretty relaxed, letting you bring your own or grab something from a food truck if you're peckish. On the downside, though, it's not all rosy; some have had a rough experience with the venue feeling a bit neglected – think grubby surfaces and an off-putting smell that lingers, plus the toilets are in a bit of a mess, which isn't ideal for anyone. And don't even get me started on the car park; there are stories of unexpected fines or scams, so you'd want to read the signs carefully before settling in. All things considered, it's worth swinging by if you're local and in the mood for a no-frills pub crawl, but maybe keep your expectations in check and plan accordingly – it's got heart, but it could do with a freshen-up to really shine.