Horse and Groom, Rochford

Ive been here in different parties and was catered for as I would hope for each time.

One of the young barmaids working recently couldnt have been less pleased to see me as I popped in as the bell went one night, but on the whole the staff are friendly.

Sandbag is the star in this pub for me. So called after the recent floods that forced a fairly long closure last year. Shame as the pub is set down from a short but significantly steep incline from the road, so they really cop it when theres a prolonged downpour.

Ive always found the landlord to be a thoroughly decent chap, so I cant agree with some of the comments others have made. Well worth a visit in a fairly crowded area of competition - Rochford. To me, this and the Golden Lion are clearly the best pubs in Rochford.

6 Aug 2014 14:35

Golden Lion, Rochford

Yes it could do with a lick of paint and a clean up. But it depends what you're there for - an excellent pint, or leaving your business card as a decorator. It's not that bad anyway. I could hardly mark it down for this reason!

I am local and try to pop in when I can. The jukebox has decent old school rock and is only 50p for 5 songs. The food is 'ok' but I refuse to get carried away with food in a pub review. If you want amazing food, go to a restaurant! (Even then, its no guarantee of good quality or value) There is a bad culture of this type of distraction from the main event in pub reviews.

The Lion always has regular beers and a good selection of guests. You name it, theyve had it. Great pub, and long may it continue.

6 Aug 2014 14:26

Tap East, Stratford

Only been once, just to make a change from the usual on the way to West Ham match. Nobody can say anything other than 10/10 for the beer. Its quite pricey, but they stock beers you dont have a chance of getting to try anywhere near this place. maybe right in town but not Stratford.

The experience is marginally detracted from by the setting - a shopping mall, but well worth a visit.

6 Aug 2014 14:16