The Ship Inn Pub in Grays

470 London Rd, Grays RM20 4AR

About This Pub

Ah, The Ship Inn – it's one of those pubs that just feels like a proper local gem, you know? From what I've gathered from the reviews, it's got this warm, community spirit where the staff are dead chatty and helpful, making it easy to settle in for a pint or a meal. The food stands out as a real winner; it's hearty, well-cooked, and won't break the bank – think delicious curries or mac and cheese at prices that leave you with change to spare. Plus, perks like free parking and a spacious beer garden with a pool table make it ideal for a relaxed afternoon with friends, especially if you're into watching the footie. On the flip side, it's not all smooth sailing; the staff can be a bit forgetful with orders, which might leave you twiddling your thumbs, and that strong local feel could make outsiders sense they're on the periphery. Also, the seating isn't quite as plush as you'd hope, lacking those comfy spots for a proper unwind. All in all, it's a solid choice for a casual outing if you're in the area, but it'd be even better with a few tweaks to iron out those minor frustrations – worth a visit if you're after good value and a friendly chat, but keep expectations realistic for a true local haunt.

Pros and Cons

Pros

The staff are incredibly friendly and helpful, always ready with a smile and a chat which makes you feel right at home.
The food is tasty and excellent value for money – you can get a hearty meal for just a few quid, like a big plate of chicken curry for £8.
There's free parking, which is a real bonus when you're popping in for a quick pint or a bite.
The atmosphere is lovely and welcoming, with a huge beer garden, a pool table, and sports on the telly, perfect for catching up with mates.
It's kept clean and tidy, and being a local spot means it's got that cosy, community feel.

Cons

The staff can sometimes forget bits of your order, which might mean a bit of waiting or chasing them up.
It has a very 'local' vibe, so if you're not a regular, it might feel a tad cliquey and not as inviting for newcomers.
The seating could do with an upgrade – it's missing those big, comfy sofas or chairs that make you want to linger longer.
Based on a recent visit, the overall experience wasn't spot-on for everyone, with one person deciding not to return after a mixed lunch.

Contact Information

470 London Rd, Grays RM20 4AR

+441375402850

Pub

Open Now

Opening Hours

Monday (Today)	12:00 - 22:00
Tuesday	12:00 - 23:00
Wednesday	12:00 - 23:00
Thursday	12:00 - 23:00
Friday	12:00 - 00:00
Saturday	12:00 - 00:00
Sunday	12:00 - 20:00

Location

Recent Reviews

Popped in for some lunch on way to weekend away and will not be returning. Clearly a 'local' as all knew each other which was nice. Took a table and a menu then ordered at the bar. Bar lady was very friendly and helpful, and we paid and waited for food. I ordered the macaroni cheese (was asked if I wanted garlic bread, and said yes, even though it was supposed to come with it), my partner ordered the veggie burger. The macaroni cheese was pasta in a yellow soup; a massive bowl of cooked pasta in a wet sauce that barely clung to the pasta - I ate some, and the garlic bread which was nice at least. My partner looked at the double burger (only expected one 'patty') and it looked very dry. He took one bite, and immediately spat it out - was basically cork-like in consistency, when it was supposed to be a 'Beyond Meat' burger, which I am reliable informed are never dry. The fries were very good though! He also asked for ketchup - there was none in the whole pub, so ate some fries and mayo, I ate some cheesy-flavoured soup, and we left quickly. We didn't say anything to the staff as we were quite intimidated by the locals all crowded around the bar and didn't want any trouble. I did see on the way out that on Friday's burgers are supposed to be £5.50, but I assume they added the extra patty, and then the garlic bread to my mac n cheese that should have already come with it as the food came to over £17.

Clasmi

I recently visited The Ship Inn Restaurant in Purfleet and was thoroughly impressed! This charming spot exceeded my expectations. The atmosphere is quaint and comfortable, perfect for families and friends. There are no pushy waiters, allowing you to enjoy your meal at your own pace. The facilities are impressively efficient and hygienic. The restaurant welcomes kids and even has a friendly dog at the entrance! You can also catch live sports, making it the best sports bar in Purfleet. They even have a last call bell!!!!!🔥🔥🔥 Enjoy the outdoor patio on sunny days and affordable beer at £4 per pint. The food is fantastic, with vegetarian options available. The waitresses are super-efficient and friendly.

Adrian Delgado

There is a free car park, food is good and very cheap. We paid £35 for 4 plates, and 3 drinks. The waitresses are always helpful and polite, however, they always forget one thing about the order 😅😋. So, we use to eat once in a while. You should too.

Lidia Voivod

Nice little pub, friendly staff, huge beer garden, pool table, sports and delicious food. Oh, there's free parking too. Only reason I'm not giving 5 stars is there should be, or I'd like there to be big comfy sofas/chairs.

Ironic Shark

Clean pub, friendly welcome from bar staff. Had chicken curry, rice & fries for £8, big plateful, well cooked, tasty & hot! Real ale was a good pint & at £3.35 was a decent price. Would recommend & return.

the andy