Horse & Groom

Standing proudly on an old coaching road, with its sage green and whitewashed facade, The Horse & Groom is a 19th-century inn, surrounded by rolling arable fields. Situated on the edge of the charming village of Writtle, it is merely two miles from bustling Chelmsford and in proximity to the rural Essex villages of Chignal St James and Broomfield, as well as the historic Hylands Park House and Estate. In the early 1900s, Writtle was lauded as “one of the loveliest villages in England, with a ravishing variety of ancient cottages,” by the historical writer, A.R Hope-Moncrieff. On balmy summer evenings, when a deep pink-orange sunset bathes the cheerful patrons in the delightful beer garden, it becomes apparent why. Distant walkers trek across the fields behind the pub, anticipating a pint of cask ale and a hospitable reception. Even during winter, the inn draws guests from all corners of the county, enticed by the prospect of a delectable pub meal beneath the old oak beams or in front of the crackling log fires. With its numerous Grade I listed and picturesque timber-framed houses, Writtle village is a favoured destination for walkers and cyclists exploring the bridle-paths and tracks encircling it. On sunny days, the local green buzzes with activity as people feed the eager mouths of mallards, moorhens, coots and swans at the duck pond, while others observe life unfold under the shade of ancient willow trees. Although the exact founding date of the Horse & Groom is uncertain, it is established that the oldest sections of the pub date back to the early 1900s. A popular spot for dog-friendly visitors, the inn welcomes patrons to enjoy a delightful quiz every first Monday of the month.