The 11 best bars and drinks in Maldon

Our host was excellent could not fault Babs. Breakfast was fantastic service was great. Lovely location and luckily the weather was kind. Rooms a little tired and dusty, bed was comfy and tea coffee tray very welcome. Overall a great stay and would go back

Managed to squeeze our reservation in for 20 people. They did a great job with a huge table with everyone getting their food hot and altogether. Good food

Great location. Bar staff lovely. Front of house staff dismissive . £4.60 for a flat weak lime and soda. What a shame the price a very simple drink can tarnish what on the outside look welcoming

We really enjoyed our four days in the room above the pub. Babs and crew are just lovely. Great meals, especially the breakfasts. Overall enjoyably quirky.

Having visited the quay thought I’d grab a coffee in The Jolly Sailor. The bar staff had no idea what an Americano was, you’d have thought I’d ordered some exotic cocktail. When the coffee arrived I wondered if it’d been made with the dishwater. To cap it all, they had the audacity to charge £3.90 which is more than you’d usually pay in central London. Absolute rip off - avoid!! There’s plenty of other places to go.

A lovely looking pub/ hotel from the out side, I understand that it's a 400 year old building but it needs updating inside if that's possible, the staff very friendly and helpful, breakfast was lovely.

Really quaint room, loverly comfortable bed and a wonderful view of the boats. The staff are very friendly.

If you’re looking for a bit of Bavaria in Essex, the Queen Victoria Pub in Maldon absolutely nailed it with their Oktoberfest night. Picture this: a lively marquee draped in German flags, an oompah band belting out a mix of classic English and German tunes (yes, “Sweet Caroline” made an appearance, of course). I went with a group of friends, and let’s just say it was less ‘Heathrow holding pattern’ and more ‘wheels up’ on the fun front. The atmosphere was infectious—every table was buzzing, the beer was flowing (though I opted for some bubbly Prosecco to keep things a bit First Class, naturally). The bratwurst menu was as authentic as you’d expect, and the staff were fully committed to the occasion, decked out in traditional German garb, serving drinks at the table like a well-rehearsed cabin crew, only with less turbulence and more lederhosen. The oompah band was the highlight. Equal parts hilarious and talented, they had the crowd singing along to everything. It was one of those nights where everyone—whether on their first pint or their fourth—was united in song. I haven’t seen this much group participation since an in-flight safety demo! All in all, the Queen Victoria gave us an Oktoberfest to remember. If you’re after a fun night out, a cheeky singalong, and a Prosecco (or three), this pub has your boarding pass ready. Just make sure you bring your best “prost!” and an appetite for bratwurst!

A great find! Simply popped in for a cheeky pint with a friend, a lovely relaxing place to enjoy. Has a great outside space for eating & drinking, really enjoyed it here. Not tried the food as of yet, but will be back to eat too! Proper pub, well worth a visit too.

After a long drive from London, we stopped at the pub for food. The welcoming staff and service were remarkable. I ordered the smoked haddock with stilton and my husband ordered the burgers. Both options were delicious. With my food. I had vegetables which were cooked to perfection and in lieu of the mash I ordered the GF fries, absolutely delicious. Highly recommended pub.

Recently visited for a friends birthday (pre booked table for a group of 6+ on a Saturday evening) and were made to feel incredibly unwelcome and unbelievably at one point during the meal, one of our party was even shouted at by a member of staff. Totally unprofessional to say the least, and an incredibly rude way to deal with a problem that could have been resolved by someone politely asking us, rather than screaming in someone’s face. They seemed to dislike the fact that we were chatting and obviously in a celebratory mood considering it was a birthday, and we had booked ahead, which they could have declined to accept if they don’t like larger groups. I’d actually say we were really quite subdued and not causing a disturbance, but even if we were a bit loud, no one made an attempt to politely ask us to keep it down. Again, it was also a Saturday night, in a pub, with a booking that had been prearranged. I don’t remember it being illegal to be having a good time? It seemed like some of the regular older diners had a problem with us, and the staff decided to deal with that incredibly unprofessionally. That aside, the food was average at best, and completely overpriced. I’d actually say it was the worst fish and chips I’ve ever had in my life. Totally tasteless and greasy. Certainly won’t be returning!

Called in without a booking and got squeezed in. The roast was fantastic, (not cheap but good value) a huge plateful. Staff friendly and accommodating,with comfortable cozy surroundings. Excellent.

Service was friendly polite and speedy but not rushed. Sunday roast was delicious with a choice of meats, including beef, chicken or pork, or all three if wanted. Vegetables were cooked just right and food was hot. Desserts were equally as good with the cherry filled pancakes an excellent recommendation from our waitress. The apple crumble with cinnamon and cream was also very good. Comfortable seating and a lovely location in the bay window. Staff couldn't do enough for us. I definitely recommend a visit.

Very nice and clean pub. Staff where friendly and courteous and made you feel welcome. Food was top notch, nice cold Aspall's. The cheesecake topping was so smooth. Couldn't fault anything. Highly and easily recommend. Great service all round

Visited the swan for drinks only great cocktails. Friendly staff and a good atmosphere. Couldn't comment on rooms food looks good and at reasonable prices

It's a quaint hotel on a High Street. It's established within a modernized old structure. Service was non-existent on Monday and Tuesday when we stayed there. We couldn't have even breakfast in the hotel. Of course to be fair, the management had informed us about this at the time of reservation. Difficult to say if it was value for money in Maldon.

First time at this Hotel for a meeting in their private room. Nice friendly people. Seems a generally pleasant environment and dog friendly which is vital for me as I travel everywhere with my dog.

Had a lovely lunch here on Mother’s Day. The staff were very friendly and accommodated our dietary needs with ease, and the goodie bag given to the mums at the end of the meal was so thoughtful and such a lovely surprise:)

We went there today for my husbands 80th we had the Sunday roast it's one of the best we have had . Very tasty hot meat veg cooked perfect .Thankyou for making his birthday special xx

Stopped in for a pint of Ghost Ship and fish'n'chips. Both excellent. Friendly and efficient staff. Immaculate toilets. Recommended!

It’s the third time we’ve been to the Swan the first time we had roast beef and I did say to the young lady that’s the roast was Luke warm at the best the second time it was the same so we gave it another go because to be quite honest, the flavour is really lovely.. so we went again this Sunday and it was awful! sent the food back because it was cold when it was brought back to us, it was still lukewarm… and it’s a real shame lovely looking pub really nice staff but unfortunately, the people in the kitchen are letting it down… and I’m afraid to say we won’t be going there again. You’re paying £20 for a roast dinner and it’s stone cold.😢

Our first visit here was only because 3 places before didn't have a highchair for our little one! I'm glad we ended up here; we loved it. Staff were great, the place itself was unique, and the food was delicious. It's great to see that dogs are welcome here too, and our little one enjoyed bits of our food from the highchair! We will be back.

Paid a visit today with my daughter. Was a spontaneous decision and did not disappoint! Food, drink atmosphere and service all 5*. Special thanks to Wizz who was super efficient and friendly and welcoming. We will definitely be back.

First visit and a great experience. When my dish of choice was unavailable (typically the only one in the entire menu!) who appeared to be the manager was very apologetic and went out of his way you suggest similar alternatives. My drink and meal were both excellent, as was the service and interaction with serving staff. It was a lovely quiet and relaxed atmosphere even though the Lounge was busy. I'll certainly be back!

Really nice breakfast here, had the Cumberland sausage butty and the muffin with fried egg, American cheese, sausage and hash browns. Both delicious and washed down with a mocha & a chai latte. Very nicely decorated place and great service. Will definitely return.

Visited here after trying other restaurants in this chain and left disappointed. The staff were lovely but the food did not live up to previous experiences in other locations. I ordered the Bang Bang Chicken which came with 4 very small slices of chicken, 2 pieces of broccoli, all in an unpleasant, unbalanced sauce. Not value for money at all! The rest of my family had burgers which were O.K although my husband felt the chips served alongside were more suited to a child's portion. My husbands pudding, the strawberry trifle, which claimed to be made up of strawberry compote contained others fruits, which were not listed, which came as an unwanted surprise! Good job there weren't any allergies to be concerned about! I paid extra for my margarita to be spicy but unfortunately this was not the case. Would not recommend this restaurant and this experience has left me unwilling to visit the chain again!

I've eaten here on three separate occasions. The staff are lovely. They're pleasant, polite and friendly. On my most recent visit, with friends, we had the Tapas Tuesday deal which was excellent value for money. We had three tapas dishes each, a glass of wine and a dessert, all for under £20. However, whilst the food and service was good, I find the atmosphere lacking.

We came here as my daughter (14 years) is a recently diagnosed Coeliac, and we had heard how good the lounges were at catering for this. We were not disappointed. The space was clean and spacious, with friendly staff. For those who need to know, the gluten free menu was a whole A3 page, so no sifting through a generic menu to find what you can have. I believe the vegan menu was also the same size. Our requirements were taken very seriously when ordering too. I also had a burger from the GF menu, and the bun was delicious! Am going to try and find which they use so we can have them at home too! The service and food for the whole party was great. Thank you. We will definitely be back.

A great spot! So much variety in coffee beans and loose leaf tea. Service was quick and very friendly staff. Also, the atmosphere upstairs in particular is lovely. Will be returning!

Ordered a black Americano. Was one of the best coffees I've had. Been back a few times since. And when I'm working close will always add it into my route. Friendly staff and efficient

Fantastic place. Amazing Coffee and an amazing light breakfast. Highly recommend to all.

Great selection of coffee. Staff are really friendly and knowledgeable. Also a good place to go for a quick lunch bite. They also offer delivery for coffee beans/ground and can be ordered online.

Oh wow!!! Coffee selection is mind-blowing. Coffee lovers heaven. Staff is cool and friendly. You can seat inside or outside. Really good atmosphere. You can find here matcha and soy milk.

This is an amazing little gem of a coffee shop, especially when you don't want to be buying from the major chains, where the coffee is bitter and the same all across the country. You can have so many different types of beans, both normal and flavoured to go with your coffee and they make it as you want it. Very friendly staff and a good atmosphere to sit in.

Our favorite coffee shop in town. Small, cozy, tasty food and coffee. Very friendly staff. Highly recommend it.

Arrived early, hadn’t booked. Tyre was immediately checked and promptly repaired. Was all sorted in under 30 minutes. Waiting area with tea coffee and biscuits too !! Overall top notch.

Excellent service from a professional team. Tyres all good prices. Far better than some of the more we'll known companies. Highly recommend

I took my car here to have its tracking checked and pointed out to the mechanic the steering wheel was off centre and could they adjust that too. The check and adjustments were completed, however upon driving away it was obvious the steering wheel was still off centre, so I turned around and went straight back to point this out. They agreed to correct it as originally requested, however, yet again after driving away it was obvious the steering wheel was still off centre. I was in a hurry to get somewhere so didn't have time to return again and subsequently went back to have it corrected. Whilst the car was up in the air on the lift the mechanic pointed out that certain components of the front suspension were worn and was affecting the tracking staying in place, however he stated that it had been adjusted. It's strange that the original mechanic didn't point out such problems on the first two occasions and he was present, advising the other mechanic on the third. I'm grateful no further charge was made but yet again on driving away, it was still obvious the steering wheel was off centre for the third time! I have subsequently had the car checked by my usual reputable garage, also an MOT centre (who only did the MOT in April) to be told he can find no fault with the suspension as pointed out and it would indeed pass the MOT . I've been coming to George Tyres for their services for many years now and even having moved out of Maldon, have still been going there. I've always found their service excellent in the past with fair prices and sound advice, so I'm really disappointed on this occasion and feel I can't trust them anymore. Shame!!

Couldn’t have been more helpful! Super quick friendly service. Would definitely recommend.

Big shout out to GTS. My wife phoned me today with a slow puncture on her car. I told her to do to GTS and half an hour later tyre fixed no hard sale great service as normal

Brilliant service after a caravan tyre blew out spectacularly on the A14 enroute to Heybridge in Essex… fitted us in at ‘no’ notice and replaced both tyres - peace of mind restored, thank you

Called up as I needed a new tyre, man on the phone says £60 something, including VAT, I said oh great won’t be long I’m round the corner, anyways gets to paying and he then says £74 something so as I query why the price has changed from what I got told on the phone and he says oh that wasn’t including the VAT, which he definitely didn’t say on the phone, so I obviously pay as I had no choice, but seems like I’ve been messed around and quite frankly conned, would not recommend👎

A proper traditional local. A friendly landlady (but you kinda feel you wouldn't want to mess with her). These sort of pubs are fast disappearing. Enjoy the experience while you still can.

First time back in 30 years and it's grim. Most expensive pint and a half since I was in London. Barman was defo a few pints in and probably decided to skim me. I'm 30 years time I will still give it miss.

Very hospitable and friendly, good drinks selection

Great locals pub. Great for company and football. Only looses a star because no regular food menu. Check out the sun trap at the back of the pub. Very dog friendly.

Nice friendly little pub with a marquee and setting out side

Great traditional pub with helpful staff and dog friendly too, thanks

Great little pub, friendly staff

lovely historic building having recently undergone extensive renovation - spotlessly clean and expertly decorated - good food, great service from friendly and personable staff and fantastic outside seating area next to the river. Limited parking at rear but nearby retail park offers three hours for free which is just a few minutes walk away. Thai menu of an evening which I’m looking forward to trying next time I’m in Maldon.

As expected the weather started out pretty cloudy and then turned into Belize. The beer here was very good and highly recommend! It was a real treat of a day

Old traditional riverside pub with outdoor tables right by the Blackwater. The staff are friendly, helpful and amazingly accommodating - cooked ham, egg and chips for us, even though it wasn't on the menu. Winter soul food!

Popped in here as it looked really lovely and it was a lovely day! The menu online differed to what they had in which was a little disappointing as was hoping for the pie of the day. We opted for the chicken burger and "upgraded" our fries. Well, the meal and the upgrade was completely overpriced for the quality - a cheap burger bun, with a bit of Birds Eye chicken and a mixed leaf salad inside. My smashed burger fries was just some mince, and my partner's katsu chicken fries were chip shop curry sauce with more chicken on the fries than there was in the burger! Not impressed at all with the food!! Staff were friendly and the atmosphere was really nice so would pop in for drinks but never again for food!

It’s a rated pub due to its riverside location and very busy. Average beers and selection of drinks - not really my vibe but I wouldn’t write it off

Came here with a friend i have to say I would give it 6 stars everything was amazing I will definitely be coming back with some more friends food is beyond 👌🏻👌🏻👌🏻

Had a great night the tapas style menu was lovely and good value. Staff were friendly they just need to get some Sailor Jerry's 😆

So freaking quaint all the locals hangout were drinks rocked very cute English pub

Absolutely lovely Sunday roast with a proper gluten free option with all works! Was fab to have a gluten free Yorkshire and proper gravy. Felt like a proper home cooked lunch

A really friendly pub with great beer, pool table and most importantly three dart boards. I haven't eaten there but the menu looks good and I gave been told the food is excellent.

We drove past and fault we would try this pub now come back when we can for lunch food is lovely & staff

My husband and I were recommended the Sunday lunch by friends. We were not disappointed, really lovely food. Good value for money. We only live locally, so will deffo be back 😋

Lovely authentic Village pub. You'll get a warm welcome.

What a fabulous pub, friendly staff, nice atmosphere. The Sunday roasts were excellent. Proper no fuss roasts, just how they should be. Plates were over flowing and very reasonably priced too.

Could not fault this place .. well worth a visit food and service outstanding 👏 Hot meals served out all together, massive portions at a very reasonable price. Beautiful decor and cleanliness too. Will be back soon !!

Great food and service. Above and beyond for a birthday meal including 7 fussy children. Garden great for the kids so we could enjoy our meal.

A proper pub with better than pub grub food, all freshly cooked by a real chef highly recommended, will be back 😋

Can't rate the food because haven't eaten here yet. But we certainly will. Popped in after work a few times and spoke to friendly people having a drink. Really nice place. Lovely hall for hire also. So, been back in there today. Can honestly say the food was marvellous. The cod was super. They were really busy because of a very big party held there, but still had enough time to make our visit very nice indeed. Thanks to the St John's Wood, Cockney🤣🤣

First time here lovely food and staff, great singing from the Landlord

Absolutely fantastic. The best cooked gammon ham I think I've ever had, SUPERB triple cooked chips and great eggs. My husband had the burger which he said was perfectly cooked and seasoned. While we were there, the friendliness just shone through and we chatted to just about everyone in this fantastic team. Next stop will be a Sunday roast but we'll be back for a Friday night dinner. Highly recommend and great value.

Our first visit, the platter of food was amazing, the quiche as part of the platter was beautiful (,maybe the best quiche I've ever had?) and I'll probably go for that on its own next time. The staff were very friendly and kind to my grandson. The enclosed garden is nice with plenty of seating and a good child's play area. There were 2 hand pulled beers as well as many other options. At least one hand pumped beer was from a local brewery. I'd recommend this newly taken over pub to anyone, it's worth a visit.