The Waterside Inn in East Hertfordshire - Phone Number, Reservations, Reviews

A fabulous spot overlooking the river. Food was good and reasonably priced. Can order at the bar or download their app. Table service. Can definitely recommend.

Just returned from Waterside Inn. We sat outside and watched swans and their babies swim up and down the river. Staff were so lovely, nothing was too much for them. Food was delicious. There are lovely walks along the tow paths. Would def visit again. Thank you for a lovely afternoon ladies!!

Three meat Sunday lunch was lush. Lovely atmosphere and the very friendly staff. Couldn't eat another thing. Will definitely eat here again.

Had a lovely Sunday lunch today for the five of us. Food was amazing. Two of us waited a bit longer for our lunch but the manager offered us all free drinks. Will definitely be eating there again. Thankyou.

Afternoon Tea for 2 at 12:15pm We made a booking, paid a deposit and it was confirmed again the day before with an email. When we arrived the manager said he knew nothing about our booking, so nothing had been prepared. He apologised, and kept apologising. We were very disappointed as this was our first catch up in 8 years! The manager then went into the kitchen. When he came back he said could we wait for an hour while they prepare. He said there was a party of 50 people to cook for too. It was too late to go anywhere else. He placed us in a quieter area, offered us tea/coffee. We chose 1 tea and 1 black Americano. They came with 2 teas! Took one away and eventually arrived again with a coffee. The tea was not nice so it didn’t get drank. We ended up having to move to a different table as the smell from the accessible toilet absolutely stank when the door was opened. Eventually our food arrived. It was awful! The cheese sandwich bread was hard, the bacon sandwich was not that enjoyable, the chicken one was also not nice, the sweet potato one was horrible, soggy and looked awful. The scones were dry, clotted cream looked like it had seen better days. The small dessert ‘thing’ in a shot glass was disgusting, the cream ontop had already slid off onto the plate. The only nice thing was the very small chocolate brownie. We complained, the staff on the tills were actually very lovely and tried to help us over and over. Not their fault. They tried to reduce to bill, but not with much success. Only taking off £2 each! Then we reminded them that we’d paid a £10 deposit on booking, then they checked and said oh yes! (So there was a booking in our name after all!) we were so fed up by then we just paid under protest and left.) all in all it was an absolute farce. We both put all this info on their online feedback form, which promises to reply within 72 hrs. We have not heard anything back and it’s been 10 days now! We certainly would never recommend this place, especially Afternoon Tea. Appalling!

If you know what is right and good in this world, you’ll do anything within your great power to avoid this car-crash of an establishment. ‘Miranda’, the bad-tempered, cantankerous nightmare of a manager, who was clearly born under a pylon, was on top form last weekend. Aside from waiting patiently for almost 2 hours for our roast dinners, what happened next defies belief & would take too long to type. But in a nutshell, we’re £73 out of pocket & shocked and traumatised at how we were treated. I have spoken to existing & past staff about this incident and they have ALL told me what a nasty bully she is - to staff and customers alike. Do yourselves a favour; anywhere but here.

Really nice food, well priced and the lady manager was warm and welcoming will definitely be coming back for some more lovely food and hospitality.

Great staff, and all in all a fantastic visit.... Shame about the rude customers that seem to think they be little staff and managment..... Great to se them dealt with in a professional manner..... Hats off the Managment and Staff.

Wanted somewhere nice to eat in Ware, food was not great in terms of presentation or flavour. Staff were courteous and friendly, which was the best thing about the experience.

I've visited regularly over the past few months, popping in for a couple of drinks while working on the laptop. I've received nothing but great, friendly, attentive service from the team. Andrew, Chanelle, Miranda, Leanne, Charlotte.... are great! Sorry, there are a couple of new staff members but I don't know them well or had much interaction with them. Miranda is often particularly kind and sees if she can get me a table in the back area, what I call 'the snug', an area that she knows that I like; it reminds me of an area of a pub that my mum used to work in when I was about 8 years old! It's a quieter area, where I can have a couple of pints and do work on the laptop. I've moved on from cherry and lemonades, though from when I was 8 years old, it's a pint of Moretti these days! :) Thank you team!

This pub is at the bottom of my road. We normally drive past and choose other places for Sunday lunch. Today I'm glad we decided to stop. No booking. Table for 2. Showing football. Lovely lamb shank. Fluffy roast spuds. The most importantly ... the staff were lovely. Callum and Chantelle behind the bar were very friendly, accommodating and just know how to run a typical friendly town pub

A huge thank you to the waterside inn they saved our christmas dinner!! we went out christmas eve and got back late after panto with no supermarkets open. We had forgotton to buy the horseradish sauce and my brother went to the pub to ask where we could get some at 9pm. They kindly gave us a pot full and wished us merry christmas. Just wanted to thank them for their kindness 🎅🏻🎅🏻🎅🏻and their christmas spirit. We will be back another day for the sunday roast !

We were a party of 5 for Xmas dinner at £70 per head with a glass of bubbly on arrival. We were informed the bubbly is no longer part of the offer but it is still on the web site. No table service for drinks, no music and not enough staff.

Great friendly service from the moment we walked in with a dog and baby. Melinda and Harvey really made our time here enjoyable. Would really recommend

Staff young lad and a lovely girls first day were really helpfull and friendl But the lady in charge was not very nice, one in our elderly party was confused ordered the starter rather than main, she was not very understanding and said he was rude, she was the rude one she hastened to tell me she had been in customer service 20 yrs. Food was great nice atmosphere except her.

Visited this bar with 5 other family members .asked if we all could seat on a table which was reserved for 7 o’clock that was no problem the staff said so we ordered some drinks then we ordered some food . We did not have to wait long for our meals to arrive (They all were very nice)unfortunately one of the meals had got left off the order so we had to order another meal just as everyone else was about to start eating.The staff were very sorry for the confusion with our order and as an apology for the mistake the manager offered us all to have free dessert on the house which was very generous of him. The last meal came out in no time and we all still eat together.Thanks for a great meal and a complimentary dessert .We would definitely be back

What a fantastic gem of a pub amazing staff Miranda changed the barrel fresh London pride and we were served by Emma I think the lovely lady in a fantastic outfit really lovely staff friendly great service we had the loaded fries and garlic bread with peppercorn sauce was excellent quality best peppercorn sauce I have had out.really looking forward to coming back

This was our meeting place for a birthday drink with a plan to move to another pub. When we arrived we couldn't find a table big enough for our group so Chanel went above and beyond to help find a table that suited our group and even offer to move us if we preferred when a space we hoped for became available. After 3 or 4 rounds most of our group decide to head home for a take away and watch the Rugby final. We decide to stay and we ate a few different small dishes from the menu. We really enjoyed the Nacho sharer the salsa was really nice with a bit of a spice. The manager kept checking in on us while maintaining and keeping out table clean by removing old glasses and wiping the table. When commented on the salsa explained how was made and even gave a little take away tub to sample at home. Above and beyond.

Well, what great find in Ware... the food was just perfect, very good pub grub, the selection of cast alle was unreal. The staff were amazing, funny witty, but very professional all at once. The Barman tall stocky with a beard was brilliant. Answered evey question we had regarding the ale, very knowledgeable. The sports were a nice touch, and zoned in areas so not to disrupt those who were not Interested. Thankyou and well done

Went for Sunday lunch a while ago..brilliant service and food. Went for birthday meal last night, like going to a different pub! Had to write our order on back of envelope to take to the bar as there was 9 of us so couldn’t remember all. No waitress service, garlic bread said on bloomer.. came like a couple of pieces of cheap toast! And cost £3.50! Waitress gave wrong dinner to one of the guests..2 different pies ordered but they didn’t realise till too late. Side salad inedible..no one came to ask extra drinks..waitress very rude when we complained. We took a cake for my birthday and the waitress just bought it back out in the box and packaging. We could have saved her the trouble and done it ourselves. Definitely won’t be back again, and won’t recommend. Pub seemed to be run by youngsters who didn’t care about customers. Ok for a drink but definitely not quality of food or non existent service

Great food and really friendly staff, had 3 courses, all of which were delicious. 10/10 would recommend hehe.

Lovely setting and great refreshing atmosphere with a a great selection on nibble foods, ideal for the hot weather.

Pretty poor lovely be the river but food not good at all. Pasta tasteless. mashed potato with sausages awful. Garlic bread dry. Might come back for a drink but definitely not for food.

In a Beautiful spot by the river in Ware this pub has been greatly improved by the new management team. I was served by Harvey, Chanelle & Kia all were excellent I'm looking forward to my next lunch in the sunshine!

We were at the Waterside Inn to celebrate the life of our beloved Dad who has sadly past away. We had an area of the restaurant reserved for us. Food was good. Staff were friendly and attentive to our needs. Service was excellent. We enjoyed...

Great friendly staff. Especially miranda, very accomplished lady at her job and we will be returning. We only live over the road along the river.

We are an events company in Hertford and had organised drinks at the waterside Inn from 50 employees, we had been corresponding with the venue the week leading up to the Friday and was told that the coffee machine was not working, therefore they were...

Wow now these people have shot themselves in the foot despite nailing the venue, the staff are well really non customer facing, only interest is slapping menu down, and in the time it takes you to take jackets off, meal is with you in seconds....

I was hesitant to stay here when I first saw the menu but as we headed out I spotted the specials so stayed. My fish cakes were very good but there was a huge salad with it which I could only eat half of! Sticky...

Good beer but the Fish and chips. Fish cold also a bit greasy Chip might be a better description I only got 12 😞

This is a baby-friendly place where we often visit after our baby sensory classes. The manager is consistently amazing, hospitable and friendly. She always ensures that there is adequate seating for us, as we are usually a large crowd! Great service and food!

The worst Pub in Ware! Absolutely rubbish service and rude bar lady who thinks no end of herself! Avoid this pub as there are way better pubs in Ware with much better service and drinks.

The Bar manager is the worst one I have ever met. She is so rude and doesn't have a clue about customer service..... She should be working in Macdonalds fast-food restaurant with that kind of attitude. The beer is poor quality as they don't clean...

this place is outstanding took my wife out for dinner on a summer evening for her birthday. , the staff were extremely welcoming and knowledgeable , The. food was amazing and delicious which came out piping hot and with a god time. however one of...

I have never been to a pub with lovelier, more welcoming staff than the Waterside Inn in Ware. Ever since new management took over and they changed round the staff, the improvement in atmosphere in the pub is noticeable. You're welcomed as soon as you...

Booked table in advance. Arrived and the host was stressed due to previous complaints and looked fed up and frazzled. Explained bit of a delay in orders by about half hour. Wonderful table setting. Couldn't access the app and explained to the host and he was just well you will have to come inside and be seated because outside is app only. I told him I wanted to stay outside because the weather was gorgeous just gave me the impression he just couldn't be bothered. Eventually I managed to upload the app on my partners phone and ordered food and drink. It took ages for the drinks to arrive hardly any staff and what staff I did see were struggling although not their fault. The food arrived about 50 mins later. The food was really lovely and good value. Downside was when leaving not one member of staff thanked us and said goodbye. Customer service and Host need looking at.

Myself and my family went to the waterside in about 2 other families in there when we arrived. Took 20 mins for 5 drinks to come. We go to order our food and once ordered we were informed of majority of our orders not being available. Mainly roasts, they should of told us before hand because we wouldn’t have bothered looking at them. The only one which was left was the triple roast with pork, beef and turkey. 3 or us ordered the roasts and 1 of us ordered the chicken pie. We couldn’t order the larger roast because of there not being enough meat left understandable. But the member of staff said that we would get unlimited roast potatoes, Yorkshire puddings and gravy. The stuffing was burnt, the turkey was like cardboard, the vegetables were brown and tasted vile!! We had about a table spoon of gravy each. And after our food came out there were no staff in sight for about 5 mins so I went and asked for some gravy. After 10 mins the gravy came out (wasn’t even hot). The meat in the chicken pie just looked like dog food. We didn’t even get asked how our meal was or asked if we wanted the deserts menu or more drinks. The customer service was just rubbish.

Husband and I went for an afternoon drink along the river, we LOVE this place, just seems very rushed at the moment, our table was booked from 1.45pm to 3.30.....we were randomly presented with the card machine at 3pm....The chair gave way causing me a cut to my arm..., toilets for men were really awful...water leaking, broken lock on cubicle door.....This being said we LOVE the vibe in here and the very vast range of drinks and food.... just need to sort out service which made us feel a little bit rushed!! We will be back!!

Only option is to use app for ordering, was told this is the only way, no cash taken. 4 of us will now take our business elsewhere, as plenty of other pubs are not conducting business like this. Glad they can afford to lose customers.

Honestly cannot fault the service! 5*Totally amazing.. from start to finishdog friendly which is amazing as you can bring your four legged friend with you! The drinks were great such a variety.Food was Devine! Highly recommend to everyone! Staff was incredible very polite and service was so quick! Thank you so much for an amazing evening George the dog is a little treasure you are so lucy to have him... super friendly and nice to have around.

Pre-booked a table for Friday night. Being the second Friday since pubs have re-opened I was expecting it to be incredibly busy. Drinks and food were served efficiently when ordered by the app. Steak was lovely! Very COVID secure, enough garden heaters around and most importantly great service including from the host - Paul! Well done all!

Just back from Sunday lunch. Well organised team. Apps worked well, drinks came in 7 mins and food 25 mins. Duo of beef was very good, the rib was off the bone and melting. Pie was ok, chips and garlic bread v good. Felt relaxed and safe. Great location. Well done all, we'll be back.

My partner and friends booked a table for six. The manager Paul told them they couldn't have six, only four even though the place was almost empty. Two then left to go elsewhere. The portions were small, the hunters chicken was overcooked and dry. The coffee machine was broken so no coffee available. NB it was broken last year and does not seem to have been repaired. Paul was offhand and had the attitude that he either couldn't be bothered or is in serious need of retraining in customer service. Needless to say we won't be returning, lots of much better places in Ware and this one certainly one to avoid.

Many pubs in Ware have dealt well with COVID-19 the punch house and the Angel are to be applauded. However, really disappointed with the Waterside!!! Having been a regular for many years... to be discriminated against because I have a Nokia phone with no apps meant I was unable to get a table... and the fact that the manager, Paul, who knows my name called me ‘sweetie’ just compounded my distaste for this completely out of touch venue. Don’t bother to visit!

Food excellent. Staff friendly and extremely helpful, nothing too much trouble. As for cleanliness, this was exceptional. I have not visited anywhere with hygiene standards this high.

We haven’t been here before and won’t cone again! Terrible food guy is so blunt. Lady serving really polite but overall experience poor!The only good thing about this place is the location.

Thanks to Paul and the team for looking after us today. Fantastic to see that this pub is carrying on the EOTHO offer. Great cask selection too.

We popped to Ware for a day out. Nice surprise when we saw The Waterside Inn had half price meals through end of September 2020 (Monday to Wednesday). Food was very tasty and staff were superbly helpful. Reason for 4 stars is that the venue feels a bit dated inside. But would go again!

Thought we would try having a meal at this pub and decide to go with the Sunday Best menu. Not sure why its called that as it was awful. We sat inside and there were plenty of tables but were offered a table which was right near a door entrance that lead to the toilets. We moved to another table and whilst sitting there the next couple were offered the same table even though there were plenty of others to sit at . We used the ap and ordered our food and drinks and it came out after about 5 mins. We both had the lamb . I thought it was the worst roast I've ever had!. All the roasts must be just sitting under a hot plate. The meat was dry and tasteless, the carrots were hard ,the broccoli was mushy and the roast potatoes were soft.The waitress never bothered to ask if the meals were OK even though i left over half of mine. The pub itself is nice and is dog friendly and a group came in with 5 dogs .I would not recommend this pub for food but for a drink its nice.

Visited with the family, thought I’d treat themTo a roast after a three hour boat ride on the river Lee. We were all hungry and thirsty after a lovely morning.We were seated immediately, lots of space.....however I was seated right next to a couple who were eating their lunch. My chair was touching theirs, that’s how close we were! Not within COVID guidelines. My app wasn’t working so ordered at the bar. Very quick friendly service. However the Bar man taking my order did not hear me correctly when placing my order and only three meals turned up instead of 4. So back to the till I went to place my order again! I really regret eating here. As an ex chef / restaurant manager I have certain expectations of how food should taste! I’m sure everyone does to be honest! This by far has to be the worst roast I have ever tasted! I chose the beef, very very tough , I left it. Broccoli......tasted like it has been boiled in pond water and fell apart like slush! No stuffing on anyone’s plates......menu clearly states that the turkey roast (everyone else had) comes with stuffing. It was slop on a plate honestly. So today I am making my family a “Monday roast” as they were all extremely disappointed! Luckily I had a pint to wash the bad taste down with. The pub is nice, and I’ve visited a few weeks ago and sat outside. It’s lovely but such a shame there’s not a passionate team who know how to cook. This place could be wonderful if managed correctly. Not worth the price for the food. Such a shame

The other night four of us went for an early evening drink at The Waterside before going off somewhere else to eat. I stood at the door behind the rope waiting to be allowed in to order our drinks. I duly used the hand sanistiser (there were two but only one was working). In front of me another couple were waiting to be seen. There was hardly any one drinking inside and eventually the manager (I believe his name is Paul having read another persons review who was also poorly treated by him) came and escorted the couple to a table as they were eating. He did not have the courstesy to acknowlege me and say that he would be back. Meanwhile my partner and her son and g/riend were out side looking for a table. I had waited long enough and stood socially distanced from someone who was being served at the bar. My partner came from outside and said not to bother ordering the drinks as the manger showed zero customer care displaying an off hand attitude and abruptly told her he would show her where to sit. We left of course thanks to the treatment we recieved. The last manager Rob was great and no matter how busy it was he and his staff always gave a warm welcome and looked after you. We shan't be going back to eat or drink which is a shame as the Waterside is in a nice location by the river unless I hear that the manager has taken a course in how to treat his customers with more respect.

Came here as it was the only place with space on a busy Covid Half Price night. Efficiently seated, Covid procedures were explained clearly. Food came promptly and was hugely tasty. Great wide range of beers. Chocolate fudge cake huge and tasty!

We had the chance to visit the Waterside Inn twice in the same week and I must admit that I was very disappointed. The first visit was for a quick drink. The person who showed us the table, informed us that we had to download an app to place our order, it was quite straight forward and drinks came quickly.A couple of days later we decided to stop for some food, as it was extremely hot and we just wanted to sit in the shade by the river.Upon arrival we were asked to wait inside whilst our tables were being cleaned, more than once the gentleman at the entrance reminded everyone to keep social distancing which I much appreciated. The same person took us to the table and gave us a menu, not only he was very stressed but wasn't professional at all. When I asked him if I had to use the app he replied "first you sit down and then I explain to you what to do".We placed our order for 2 roast dinners and drinks, which took ages to arrive. At a certain point, I started to question myself if I had placed the order correctly on the app. When we finally received our drinks, I asked the waiter (the same person who greeted us at the entrance) if I could have some tap water, not only he rolled his eyes at me but he also puffed loudly whilst opening his arms. Despite I find this unacceptable, I decided to ignore his behaviour as he looked extremely stressed and hoping he would have apologised later on. The water never arrived and when the food was delivered, I asked him again if we could have the water with some horseradish. Which never arrived. After 5 minutes I decided to ask to another waiter who said he would bring them straight away, but nothing arrived. I had to ask several times and go back inside to get my order completely delivered as my meal had been sitting on the table for a while. It took 20 minutes for someone to show up with a small jar of horseradish (I believe they were making it from scratch?) and no water, when my food was already cold and my wife had finished her meal. Unfortunately I can't judge the quality of food as I didn't have the chance to taste it properly but it looked ok. On the way out, we passed by the gentleman who took care of our table and he didn't even thank us (or apologise for his rude behaviour). I totally understand that we are all facing a very challenging period and I know that this is causing a lot of stress (I work in the industry), but I find a similar service appalling and unacceptable. On another note, staff should wear a mask especially when handling food.

Waited over 1 and a half hours for food and ended up leaving unfed. I'd pre-booked our table and on arrival were given the choice to sit inside or out. There is hand sanitiser at the entrance and social distancing notices around but most waiting staff were not wearing masks. We ordered our food at the bar as instructed, giving our table number and our drinks were delivered to our table fairly quickly. After around an hour, upon noticing that 3 tables that came after us had all been served their food, we asked a server to check on our food. She immediately started giving excuses about how busy they were and the system they use means tables won't necessarily be served in order and said she was sure our food was on it's way. We expected her to come back to us after she had actually checked with the kitchen but she didn't. After another 15 minutes my niece went in to the bar to check but after speaking to 2 members of staff she didn't get any help so we decided to leave. All the staff we spoke to moaned about how busy they were. After asking for our money back we were given an apology and told that our food had been given to another table! Not surprising as we'd seen the server coming out and calling out the order rather than the table number!!! Despite paying for the meal on my credit card I was given a cash refund. I'm assuming this was so that they can still claim back the money from the Government for the meal we didn't have.....

I came here for a Sunday roast, first trip to the pub since the lockdown began. We were recommended to use the app, which suited me. However the app kept crashing, lagging and refreshing the page. The app duplicated my order, it was impossibly slow and told me there was a card error and to put my details in again only to then lag and put the order through twice. I let the bar staff/manager know immediately and was essentially palmed off when I enquired about a refund for the duplicate order, I was told it would take 48 hours. 48 hours later two payments have come out. Incredibly unhelpful and dismissive when I contacted them, the manager acted as if I was lying or stupid and even after I provided proof I still haven’t been refunded like they told me I would be. Rushed off the phone and told the refund would take ten days, it’s been well over a month now and I haven’t received a penny back. Terrible customer service and have essentially taken my money and refused to give it back to me. Avoid this place because if anything goes wrong with your order, rest assured you won’t get your money back. I can’t believe that they’ve just taken my money and won’t return it, when the issue was with THEIR app. I was made to feel like a nuisance whenever I chased this, or as if I’m somehow trying to con them when actually it seems to be the other way round entirely. This experience has put me off ever going here again, which is a shame because the pub itself is in a lovely location etc. Oh well, there are plenty of other pubs in ware that I’d rather go to from now on that won’t snatch my money during a global pandemic and refuse to give it back!

This was our first visit to a pub since earlier on in the year and wasn’t quite sure what to expect. As soon as you walk in, there was hand sanitiser and you were shown to a table. We had booked in advance just to make sure we’d get a table. We had a table inside but there was space outside- all tables socially distanced. All doors opened throughout the pub so you didn’t need to touch anything. Some staff had masks on. The staff were very friendly and attentive; the app for ordering food and contact tracing app were both very easy to use. We loved the app for ordering and hope this is kept going forward! Despite a busy afternoon food and drinks came out really quick. The food was great and we had a lovely afternoon!

Having a group of 12 and booking tables prior to turning up, the staff inside were absolutely brilliant.Was met by a great front of house, who even managed to find space for us outside after a while. Bar staff and waiting staff all great friendly and helpful.Would highly recommend for a night out.

From the moment you enter staff are rude and unwelcoming - not worth the visit - we actually left before ordering anything they were so bad!

Excellent! Well done all the team, couldn’t fault a thing with organisation. Special thanks to the arsenal fan team member, great guy!

Visited for a family meal - wanted a table oitside but was told tables were for "walk-ins" only!. App wouldn't work for ordering food. The food was good. Bar staff delivering drinks not wearing masks but waitress delivering food was wearing a mask???!!. Guy as you came in to check your booking - not wearing a mask and getting closer than 1m to people! This needs thinking about!!

I booked on-line in Mid week for a weekend table outside. The day before, I got an email saying they can not confirm/accept my booking. So I called the Sarecens across the road on the day, who squeezed us in. As they are across the road from each other we looked in the Waterside Inn garden & inside and it had plenty of space the whole time we were across the road.

After hearing some stories about what other pubs in the are were doing/not doing in terms of cover 19 related hygiene practices friends and I were slightly sceptical about visiting any pubs but after looking on trip advisor and see the glowing reviews the waterside inn had from the last week or so we decided to try it out. The staff are friendly and very welcoming and explained the new system in great detail. We downloaded the app MyPub to order our drinks and they were brought to our table. It took a little while but we understood that the pub was busy and everyone is getting used to the way things are working now. When our drinks arrived the staff member that brought them to us was smiling and very polite. We ordered food and were not disappointed. Food quality was of a very high standard. The staff are constantly cleaning tables and it was lovely to see that they are actually taking it seriously by cleaning the chairs as well. Overall it was a lovely evening and even though things have changed its lovely to see the staff smiling while working. It was a lovely visit and we would definitely come back again. To anyone much like ourselves that may be slightly nervous about visiting a pub again the Waterside inn is one i would recommend. Thank you to the staff there and keep up the great work

We visited the pub on Tuesday 14th July for drinks in the garden. All was going well; beers were flowing, laughs aplenty – you know the drill. The manager came over and tapped one of our friends on the shoulder; “can I have a word?”. After a brief conversation our friend came back to the table and told us we had to leave because there had been complaints from 3 tables that we were smoking ‘marijuana’ (pronounced with a hard ‘J’).We’re not entirely sure why our friend didn’t immediately protest our innocence (we have, and will continue to mock him for it) but the accusation was completely unfounded and incorrect. We were sat very close to the back door surrounded by tables that were incredibly bemused by what was going on. MariJuana has an incredibly potent smell and would obviously have been noticeable had we been smoking it.Before I had the chance to go into the pub to confront the manager about the completely ridiculous reason we were being made to leave, the very helpful young chap working the outside tables (who probably would have reported us smoking drugs and should have been questioned prior to us being given our marching orders) said that he’d go and fix the situation and he did. “There’s been a misunderstanding, he’ll come over and apologise” (he never did).We are at part to blame for what happened next, but the situation was once again handled appallingly by the rude manager. At the start of our visit we said that there would only be 5 of us. That was intended to be the case, but as the sun came out and people started to finish work our table grew to 8 people. We should have split into 2 tables but didn’t.This was the ammo that the manager (his name’s Paul, by the way) needed. He marched over, told us we wouldn’t be able to buy any more beer and that we needed to get out. We asked if we could split tables and “no, finish your drinks and get out”.All of us either still work in the pub industry or used to; it’s how we all know each other. Regardless of how bad a day you’re having, you can’t and shouldn’t be as rude as Paul was to us. We went over to the road to the Saracen’s Head, sat on 2 tables and enjoyed the rest of our evening.We won’t go back to the pub which is a shame because they have great beer on tap. The last manager Rob did a great job building the Waterside up and the current manager is doing his best to ruin it. If you’re as rude and miserable as Paul is (in frequent visits I’ve not once seen a smile) he should probably change his line of work and ruin peoples days elsewhere. Be a parking attendant or something.

Have considered all government guidelines when planning the reopening, so if you are nervous about coming don’t be they have it covered. Had a very pleasant drink down by the river, staff very attentive and thorough with cleaning. Good to be back

i have visited several pubs in ware this week due to having worked throughout lock down and had to take this week off . I had a walk each day and lunch time early pm visit the team in the waterside were far the best organised ,attentive to each incoming customer and i must say far above and beyond cleaning procedures when customers were on the tables and the cleaning after tables left vacant well done Paul , Loui and staff i feel i could recommend to all

Our first visit to a pub since lockdown and what a great experience. We were greeted at the door by very welcoming staff, everything was explained to us. We were seated and introduced to the my pub app for ordering and paying for drinks, which were then served to the table, I hope this stays. The staff were very pleasant and ensuring everyone was abiding to the rules. Tables and chairs were being sanitised between customers which was very reassuring. I felt very safe and will have no hesitation in returning

This was our first visit after lockdown and their 2nd day of opening. Wow what amazing service, from the minute you walk in the staff were super friendly, very helpful and informative of all the changes that have incurred since our last visit. We were greeted at the front of house by the manager, he explained all the changes, there was a hand sanitizer station at the front which we were asked to use we were then seated at our table and told how to order via their app or at the bar if necessary (only 1 person per table allowed at the bar to order). We were given a card with the track and trace QR code on it to use. I used the app to order and pay and the food was brought out quickly. The whole layout is perfect all tables are spaced out, lots of staff seen to be cleaning all touch points and tables and chairs. The staff were impeccable ensuring we were ok and understood everything . The outside area was busy with people enjoying the sun, and all areas were spaced out and being cleaned frequently. I can't fault it on anything. Great food, impeccable service and a very welcoming atmosphere. If you or anyone in your household are a bit hesitant about going back out to socialise, The Waterside is the perfect place to start. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

the staff and management have done a great job putting the social distancing in place, explaining the rules as you go in, all very friendly and very quick service. Love this place definitely feel safe in coming back

1st day opening after months away and they have done brilliantly!!Table service was quick and friendly, food was fresh and really tasty. They have fully embraced The new regulations and have made it work without being awkward.Can’t praise the staff enough, good job!

Good food, in ware there is a wide choice but this is one best for pub grub.asl in summer the beer garden by river is good.

I attended today with my girlfriend the Venue is beautiful and the canal side view is just amazing however the food was average. we both had turkey roast dinner and both received one tiny piece of parsnip and one bite size piece of stuffing, it was literally not even a full bite size. The turkey had a large amount what I believe to be skin still attached and this made the portion size look far better than it was. You are offered a re full of potatoes and Yorkshire pudding but it would be in my opinion a better option to just give you a good portion size from the beginning as having your plate taken to add more food isn’t very professional. I’m more disappointed because the venue and staff are lovely and I really didn’t expect what was served to me. I would like to say what food I did get tasted good but overall very disappointed

Really poor service. This is my local pub in ware and used to go quite a bit however some friends and I went for dinner this evening. My partner had finished his main and then both of our friends were served. They then both finished there mains and I was still waiting - I asked twice and was told it was coming. They refused to cancel my order, no apology was given and no refund offered. Really poor customer care.

Sorry, Riverside Inn. It was a terrible experience. The table we had was sticky and had a sheen of dried beer. I queried the bill and had to be refunded for an overcharge. The food was mediocre and we waited, waited and waited for our desserts. They never arrived, even after I had asked for a progress report so we gave up and walked out. Never again!

Came in for the first quiz of 2020 with some friends and had a lovely time. Staff were attentive and polite and food was lovely. Drinks were served promptly and efficiently. All together a lovely atmosphere in the pub and it's great to see that the staff actually seem to enjoy working together here. Even in a busy night they kept calm and did what they do best. Will definitely be visiting again soon

Nothing special about the menu. Most of it is the predictable mix you get in most reasonably priced pubs. In saying that food is reasonably good and service fast. Although on busy days the staff become a bit overwhelmed. Bar ordering is a pain but is becoming the norm in a lot of places. All in all reasonable and worth a visit

Went into this pub to take my aunt and uncle for new years eve, the bill for the food was over £60 and it was disgusting! My partner has the chicken & rib combo, the ribs looked like they belong to a cat, and they tasted of nothing. The wings must have been taken from a sparrow, the chips were cold and my uncles steak was cremated and tough. The burger tasted burnt and the chips were cold. It's a shame, because this pub could be so nice. I use this pub quiet a lot, however after this experience, I will no longer be popping in for a pint. So slow to get a drink as well, Please please sort your act out. waterside.

George looks after his very best mate. His dog is the best spoilt rotten dog in ware. Has his own reserved table

Decent roast tender pork could have done with a bit more crackling. Tasty roast potatoes . Excellent for the price

I come often for a drink, however I wouldn't recommend to have lunch/dinner here as the food is not really amazing

My son, daughter, myself and my dog visited early on Saturday evening. Beer was good, food was good and atmosphere lovely. Good staff and relaxing place to spend time. Will visit again for sure.

After a morning of walking our dogs, we decided we needed some lunch and drink, Came across this place, we though let's give this a try, we ordered pork it came out well presented, however the food was tepid to say the least ,however we didnt make a fuss, as the gent on the floor, was rushing about like a blue arse fly, looking extremely stressed,we ate without the fuss and ordered desserts, which were absolutely delicious, all in all not to bad, but the gent rushing around like a loon, really needs to chill, calm down and not try to do to much himself.Would we return yes I think we would.

Dropped into our local pub for a drink at the end of a working week.

We visited the pub this evening to celebrate my son's 18th birthday. The food was pre- ordered as there was 17 of us dining. The food came out piping hot. Everyone of us enjoyed the meal. They let us take a cake in and they brought it out after our main course . Lights were switched off and everyone, staff included sang happy birthday. All went well. Thank you chef, kitchen staff and those that waited on tables.

Encouraged to try the house wine by pleasent barman - agreed to do so on good recommendation - this house wine however was at the grand price of 15.95 - not really a bargain!

Went here with my son for dinner, as weather was warm we sat outside in the patio area, food was very good and great atmosphere.

We were part of a group and had pre-ordered. Meals were all delivered very promptly. Good and attentive service. Very tasty food and particularly, the Mediterranean Vegetable Tart eaten by my wife and a non vegetarian amongst us. We were inside but the external canal side seating was very attractive.

Popped in on a sunny Sunday afternoon looking forward to an hour or so relaxing with a nice drink by the river.

Just goes to show you shouldn’t rely on reviews at all times! We enjoyed good service and a hearty well cooked meal, for not a lot of money. No complaints at all, thank you.

We visited for a family get together, with high Hope's with family that had been before, lovely setting along river , nice building, once inside ceiling paper coming off very tatty ,cobwebs hanging off lights above tables and dead flies a.ong window seals !

On a hot summer day, the outdoor seating area was packed. It sits along the river which was nice on a scorching day. The pub is big and outdoors there are plenty of tables. It was busy but we got served quickly. Staff were friendly.

This is the second review I've written for this place and such a shame as irrespective of the generally bad reviews it seems to get, the first one I wrote was 5 star as we actually thought the food and service were really good.

Been for breakfast once, it was lovely but had issues when visiting for lunch. My fiancee ordered a halloumi and avocardo sandwich. It came out with no avocardo. We asked to have it rectified, it came back out with frozen avocardo in it. On another occasion, my fiancée's burger was undercooked, again we asked to have it rectified, it came back out but it took quite a while which meant I had to eat my food in the meantime. Not sure if we would go back.

Went for lunch today- 15 minute wait for a coffee - then half an hour for a starter - salads so no cooking! No cutlery after a wait we went and got our own. Overpriced and very basic - not worth the wait. The staff were curt and not particularly attentive or friendly. Certainly will not go again or recommend.

finally went back to the waterside inn after years of boycotting only to be met with millennial staff talking about themselves and what they are and what they are not instead of concentrating on what they are doing!!

Nice pub, decent outside area with good seating. Drinks not the cheapest. Nice decor and seating inside too. Staff efficient.

Three choices were not available. Chose a burger and was asked if I wanted chips or sweet potato chips and was charged extra for the sweet potato. My husband pie crust could not be cut with a knife and all the food was lukewarm. We were not asked if everything was ok because we would have mentioned this, although the server could see how much was sent back.

The welcome was far from friendly and regrettably, the fare wasn't much better. The fisherman's pie was lacking in fish pieces and I counted only two prawns. There was a great deal of mash topping and the vegetables were horribly overcooked.

Had Saturday lunch here today with the family. When my 7 year old daughter complained that she was hungry, I checked my watch to discover that we had been waiting for about 40 mins from the time of paying. I went to the bar to politely enquire how long it was going to be (explaining that we had a seven year old that was hungry). The woman behind the bar replied “15 - 20 mins... like it always is”. I explained that we’d already waited for over 15 - 20 mins. She replied “it’s the next one down... it’ll be 5 mins”. Well - it wasn’t the next one down (and took at least a further 10 mins).

Amazing, so relieved the waterside inn has once again got a chef that cares. It shows! I visit Ware every Saturday for about 3hours. 2years ago when I first began visiting, Waterside Inn was always the choice to have breakfast. Slowly the quality slipped away, as did the team morale. For along time my friend and I didn’t have much good to say about our Saturday morning experiences, apart from good parking and great location. After too many unsatisfying visits we took our money to other places along Ware high street. Last week and today have been stunning, the quality is fantastic again and the presentation shows, the chef must take pride in their work. Keep up the hard work. Some FOH team could do with a boost in customer service skills. We will be back again

Came in here to grab a quick beer and lunch at the weekend having only been years ago for drinks and not expecting much. We were very pleasantly surprised, good choice on the menu and very nice food and seemed fairly good value. It really sure why he reviews were so bad?!