The Ship in Grays

Ah, The Ship in East Tilbury—it's one of those pubs that feels like a proper local hideaway, you know? From what I've gathered from the buzz around it, the staff are absolute stars, always greeting you with a smile and making sure everything runs smoothly, which really adds to that cosy, welcoming feel. The food's a highlight too; whether it's a hearty Sunday lunch or a delightful afternoon tea, people rave about the quality and how it's such good value—perfect for catching up with mates over a meal. And let's not forget the outdoor seating; it's brilliant for a relaxed pint on a nice day, especially since it's tucked away near some lovely walks. On the flip side, it's a bit of a mixed bag with the upkeep—some reviews point out that things like the toilets haven't changed much over the decades, which might make it feel a tad dated if you're after something more polished. Prices can be on the steeper side as well, so it might not be the cheapest night out, and there's that odd mention of food not being available on Sundays, which could catch you out. All in all, though, it's got that classic British pub charm going for it, with a solid 4.6 rating showing it's doing most things right—definitely worth a visit if you're in the area, just go in with realistic expectations and you'll likely have a cracking time.