About This Pub
Ah, The Ship – it's one of those pubs that just feels like a proper English gem in Chelmsford, with its warm nautical decor and a lively buzz that's earned it a solid 4.4 rating from heaps of visitors. I love how it's so conveniently placed near the station and has loads of parking, making it a breeze to meet up with mates for a pint or a meal. The food's a real highlight; you've got cracking options like their daily specials and that famous burger, all washed down with a cracking selection of ales and spirits. Plus, if you're staying over, the rooms get high marks for being clean and comfortable, with some folks even saying the showers are top-tier. They've got fun events like quiz nights to keep things entertaining, and the staff often go the extra mile to make you feel welcome. But, let's be honest, it's not all smooth sailing – the place can come across as a tad worn around the edges, with basic rooms and an interior that feels a bit old-school, and there might be the odd off moment with service that could leave you wanting more. Overall, it's a welcoming spot that's worth a visit for a good night out, as long as you go in with realistic expectations and appreciate that classic pub charm.
Pros and Cons
Pros
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The warm and welcoming atmosphere really makes you feel right at home, with its nautical theme adding a fun, cosy touch that's perfect for a relaxed evening.
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It's got a brilliant location near Chelmsford station and bus station, plus plenty of parking, making it super easy to pop in whether you're local or just passing through.
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The food is spot on – think tasty pub grub like daily specials and that legendary Golden Hind Burger, paired with a great selection of beers, spirits, and real ales from Ridley’s Brewery.
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They offer decent accommodation with 10 rooms that guests have raved about, especially the showers, and there's always something going on like quiz nights or music events to keep things lively.
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The staff are generally dedicated and friendly, with many reviews highlighting top-notch service from folks like Nicky and Will.
Cons
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The rooms and pub interior can feel a bit dated and basic, with things like cables everywhere and random tables that might not live up to modern expectations.
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There have been a few mentions of inconsistent service, like one bar staff member who didn't quite get the hang of things, which could put a dampener on your visit.
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It's described as a bit old inside, so if you're after something sleek and contemporary, it might not hit the mark straight away.
Contact Information
18 Broomfield Rd, Chelmsford CM1 1SW
+441245265961
Pub
Hours not available
Opening Hours
Opening hours not available
Recent Reviews
Choose this Pub as it's the closest accommodation near the training location, also close to the station.
This pub sits outside the centre of the city, walking distance from the train station.
Room a bit old. Cable everywhere. It's very basic.
Inside the Pub its a bit old too, random tables dotted about with chairs / stools and a bit dark.
Order dinner from the pub. It was delicious and the portion is generous. Pub always busy. On my checkout day, it was packed. Seems this pub is popular.
The room is very basic. My room constantly shakes as the truck or big car passed the road. The only room available at that time is the one with sharing bathroom.
Toilet didn't work. Water can't flush, must try many times. It's also dirty. Bathroom also dirty
It's the first time in my life stay at the hotel with sharing bathroom.
Will not do it again.
It's a bit up and down to get to my room.
Car can park at front area, by the street. There is a few pay and display car parks. Also a small car park behind the pub.
Great stay in rooms rather well separated from the pub and bar. Come and go at your leisure.
Excellent standard of room. Best shower ever (and I've stayed in a lot of top end hotels).
Just a quick note to thank you for looking after us so well when we recently made a brief stopover in Chelmsford.
The Ship was the perfect central location to meet our friends to enjoy a delicious meal, catch up and have a few ales. The accommodation was exactly what we needed - clean, quiet and very comfortable. 🙏🏻
Popular City Centre pub. Great staff... especially Nicky,Will & Heidi. Good food. Good selection of ales. Jukebox is well used. Beaujolais nouveau day is a must every November.
We didn’t stay Overnight, we just had lunch, but in one word, brilliant. It’s what an English pub should be like. Food was beautiful and very good value for money, all staff were very friendly and helpful, although there was one barmaid who doesn’t get the concept of service, all other bar staff were busy yet myself and 3 others had to wait til she finished her chat with her girlfriend to get a drink.
I highly recommend this pub.
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