The Telegraph has released an “expert guide” of the best boozers in the country which were “chosen for their charming character, welcoming staff, rich history and – of course – award winning beer”.
The closest pub to Romford town centre on the list is The Rising Sun in Ongar Road, Brentwood.
The Rising Sun has a 4.3 out of five rating on Google and a 4.5 rating on Tripadvisor and according to Google Maps, is only a 24 minute drive from Romford.
According to the pub’s Facebook page and recent reviews, the pizzas on offer here seem to be an attraction.
The Orange Tree in Brentwood (Image: Google) One customer recently wrote: “Pizzas are very worth a visit.
“Good selection of beer and atmosphere!”
If you fancy driving a further 10 minutes into Chelmsford then you’ll come across two more pubs on the list – The Orange Tree and The Wheatsheaf.
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The Orange Tree in Lower Anchor Street has a 4.6 rating on Google and 4.5 on Tripadvisor whilst The Wheatsheaf in The Green averages slightly higher on Google with 4.7 although considerably lower with 3.8 on Tripadvisor.
The Wheatsheaf describes itself as “a traditional family-friendly pub” and “the perfect place to sit back and relax with your favourite drink in hand”.
Averaging 4.7 ratings on Google and Tripadvisor, this watering hole proves popular especially with lovers of real ale.
The most recent Google review said: “I have reviewed this wonderful place before for its friendly vibe and excellent real ales and cider.”
Another person noted the pub has “several CAMRA awards proudly dispatched and is known for its craft beers”.
A 50 minute drive from Romford would see you reach The Woolpack Inn in Church Street – “a traditional local pub” according to WhatPub’s website.
However, its rating of 4.4 on Google sits slightly lower than some of the other pubs on The Telegraph’s list.
Around five minutes further away in the car are The Swan in School Road, Little Totham and The Compasses Inn in Littley Green, Chelmsford.
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Averaging a rating of 4.7 on both Google and Tripadvisor is The Swan which describes itself as a “beautiful, privately owned freehouse built in the 16th century”.
The pub is “surrounded by beautiful countryside and welcomes well-behaved dogs”.
The venue offers “boutique style rooms” for a “luxurious night stay” as well as a pub.
According to its website, The Compasses Inn was named Chelmsford and Mid Essex CAMRA cider pub of the year 2025.
Just less than an hour away from Romford town centre, according to Google Maps, is The Three Horseshoes in Burnham Road, Althorne.
It has a 4.6 Google rating and 4.5 Tripadvisor rating.
The most recent person to leave a Google review described The Three Horseshoes as a “little gem”.
They added: “Please go eat there, you won’t be disappointed.”
