Wheatsheaf in Epping Forest

Had a lovely lunch here and enjoyed the outside space which kept our daughter entertained. Food was good but some dishes could be better.

On arrival, the pub was quite empty. Hand sanitisers by the front door, with a book where you sign in (contravening GDPR) for track and trace COVID.Food was ordered as had to wait ages for starters. Mains took just as long. I ordered Cajun Chicken wrap, but couldn’t make out where any Cajun spice may have been. Staff were all friendly and the place looked clean and tidy, so although the food was mediocre, I would stop by again for a drink.

Waiting for food for over 45 mins, not much on menu.v slow, no beer, no atmosphere, seen happier staff with Gordon Ramsey.

A really Good sunday Lunch and kids menu Great choice of meat and vegetables Good Yorkshire puddings for a tenner

Had a Sunday carvery here with the family, great food and a great atmosphere. The new people running the pub have turned this place around, it’s clean with a great pint and well priced. I will certainly return if it stays at this standard

I went here with family a couple of weeks ago, and have been back 3 times because the food, the staff are very friendly and couldn’t do enough for us, the food is all home cooked and tastes amazing, I highly recommend a visit

My husband and I had a fantastic 3 course meal, food was cooked beautifully, the chocolate brownies were cooked to perfection watch out Mr Kipling!!! the staff made you feel welcome, and the cost was so reasonable, will definitely be returning Well Done Annie and Co.

Very enjoyable home cooked food. Friendly staff. Would definitely come back Free children’s meal with adults at certain times. Under new management

Food was amazing. Annie made us feel do welcome, we are coming back for dinner tomorrow night, highly recommend xx

So glad this pub is now being managed by new staff. The new carvery on a sunday is absolutely lovely, nice week day menu too and kids eat free with 1 paying adult The staff are warm and welcoming, such a nice family and animal friendly pub. Speaking to manager who couldn't have been more helpful about booking a baby shower and a birthday party which she is more than happy to do, she has said lots to come over the summer music etc. Thank you for a lovely afternoon looking forward to coming back soon.

Live locally and came in today for lunch with a friend. Was a lovely atmosphere and very clean (decorated for Valentines Day too which was a nice touch). There was a variety on the menu and was advised everything is homemade. I ordered Fish & Chips and my friend ordered the Pie which was chicken & ham. Both dishes were delicious and could tell everything was fresh and home cooked. Have been to this pub many times before but mostly in the summer for the big garden, was never very impressed by the food and didn’t really get the best atmosphere inside the pub in my opinion. Was told that new management have taken over and it really can be seen not only with the quality of food but quality of time spent as all staff were very friendly and accommodating. Would highly recommend and will definitely come again for lunch ☺️

Visited today with friends and after reading some past reviews was very unsure whether we would enjoy our evening. But we were pleasantly surprised! Under new management and wow...... food was amazing and staff were really friendly. Made us all feel at home, so will definately be returning.

new management great service lovely food would highly recommend definitely a turnaround for the better

Living in the area, the Wheatsheaf was a delightful local when run by a guy "from up north" called Chis. He virtually rebuilt the place with outside play area and very family orientated. When he moved on a lady called Viv took over and maintained it's high standards and even improved on the outside eating area and interior decor. Always the food was very good. Then it changed hands again and, to be polite, lost a lot of it luster and we went less often, then seldom. Another change of ownership and we stopped going altogether as there was nothing pleasent about it and so for a year or more we kept further afield.We noticed last month it had changed hands again so popped in for a drink and was pleasantly surprised. The atmosphere was welcoming, it was clean again. Today we decided to try dining there and... wow.Since chemo I am unable to eat as I used to and tonight it was heart-breaking not being able to finish my meal. I rarely eat Steak & Ale pie as usually half the meat it too chew to get through, but not here. The expression 'Melts in your Mouth' came to life, the mash was creamy but not stodgy, I could find one piece of meat that wasn't delicious and tender.At last, a local we can be proud of again. New Year, New Decade = New Wheatsheaf.

If there was a button for 0 stars this place would get one. We arrived for a Sunday lunch with family. Before arriving we were called to be told they were only able to sell roasts and provided no veggie/vegan options. Upon arrival we were greeted by a waitress who looked as if she had no clue what she was doing. We ordered our roasts, expecting a lovely filling Sunday lunch, but we got the opposite. First of all the food arrived cold, which after telling the waitress she just put it in the microwave (rehearing meat, a big no no) and didn’t seem that bothered. It then arrived luke warm, after attempting to eat the veg I gave up, it was uncooked and still frozen. Nothing was warm and nothing was fresh and the meat was like paper, it had clearly all been taken from the freezer and half heartedly chucked on a plate. When talking with the manager he was as incompetent as all the other staff and proceeding to take £4 off our £50 food bill, when nothing was eaten. Absolutely atrocious and will be taking this further.

We were driving past and decided to call in for lunch, never having been here before.

I write this review as I was a regular here and wasn’t happy with the place as the management at the time banned dogs.

Please don’t book a group booking or party event. After changing management my friend was reassured that the booking she made in August for a birthday party for 70 people would still be okay for the end of October. She then received a call a week before the party to say they can no longer cater for the party as they do not have the manpower. She asked to speak to the manager and number of times each time she was called back by member of staff the member of staff she spoke to stated that they would be busy that weekend already. The booking was made in August she was assured when it changed hands and even given a discount for her trouble. For them to cancel. She now has a week to find another venue for 70 people. Absolutely appalling customer service

Due to disgusting customer services from the wheat-sheaf pub had cancelled us on the 26th October.

I visited this pub yesterday for lunch.

Called in here for lunch while passing through the area. We were looking for a light bite (ie sandwich) and so ended up ordering a baguette each. When the food turned up it looked lovely - full of filling, with a decent size salad garnish and some skin on fries - it was all delicious. Only drawback was that the Stowford Cider on draught was unavaible as was the San Miguel (and it looked like the ales were also unavailable as the pump clips all seemed to be turned round). Friendly service and great food.

Don't think i will ever ask for another coffee in Mcmullen's Wheatsheaf on the Crooked Mile. 6 of us went in for dinner. Choice of menu was appalling. No chicken, fish, diet coke, sausages, Either a burger and chips, no cheese and only enough bacon for 2 burgers. Two of the burgers were burnt! Or scampi which was alright...ish. Don't think we will be coming back !

Thought we would try this pub as wanted to for a while but was sadly disappointed. Decor is nice, it's clean and staff seemed friendly enough.

Didn’t want to give even one star. I never had so bad service and so bad food in my life. We was walking with kids all day and was really hungry. Driving pass we stopped to this pub as we soo nice play area for kids and it looked very friendly from outside. At the bar we asked for menu and when we was ready we went to order but then we find out that they run out of roast dinner , on Sunday ( so we had to choice agan as nobody told us from beginning) . Not a problem! When food arrived ( 3 meals out off 7) I went to the bar and I believe it was manager was chatting to another costumer and took his time! When hi finally come to me I sad to him that we are still waiting for 4 more meals! ( oh of course you are! Hi said!) finally we got all hours food and it was cold. All meals should be served with skinny fries, but arrived with chips, ( nobody didn’t tell us nothing) we had some burned pieces I don’t know from what even! It was rice on my plate and we didn’t even order anything with rice. Salad was old. We tried to eat as we was so hungry! No one come to us! It’s very bad! And then sign outside saying that food served all day, but one boy wanted to order food a bit after us and they said that kitchen is closed! Was also sign outside that kids eat 1 pound and we was charged full price! No one explain nothing! Very very bad!

This has to be the worst Sunday Lunch ever. The Sunday Roast was not what it said on the menu, the gravy was disgustingly watery, and overall tasteless. Coffee undrinkable. The service was good and the waiter very pleasant.

had driven past this pub a few times and thought the play area looked nice for the girls ,Pub looked okay as well.

I would like say a massive thank you to the new manager and his staff for being so lovely and accommodating ! The spread I ordered was lovely the staff were helpful and friendly , the kids were happy and I can honestly say I had the best day ! We have also eaten here a couple of times since being taken over and I am pleased to say the food was very good ! The last managers ran the place into the ground as food was poor never had no stock ! I wish you all the best and will being defo be paying lots of visits throughout the summer

Went in today with a few friends for a spot of lunch! My God the roast beef was amazing! I have to admit I heard very bad things about this pub but what a load of rubbish! Probably one of the best roast dinners I have ever had in my life!

Do not go here if you wish to eat. The children’s burgers were the lowest grade ‘meat’ burgers... frozen rubbish. The curry was microwaved. We waited 30 mins for this awful awful food.

Don't go to this pub kitchen was closed at 7.30 no AK bitter other beer was undrinkable also the cleaner began to hoover around our table at 8.30 no atmosphere only 2 other people present don't bother

We went hear for lunch after seeing how popular it is every time we go past.

I had not read previous reviews but we had driven past this place many times, since the change of ownership so decided to give it a whirl.

We have been coming regularly to this pub for years as we always had a good experience there so we invited our daughter in law and grandkids there for a treat on Sunday. My husband wanted a pint of bitter but was told that they had run out! We had to wait 15 to 20 minutes for our drinks, well some of them as they had forgotten about the daughter in law's drink. I was given my glass of red wine but was told that I could not have anymore as they had also run out of red wine! The order for food was done promptly but we had to wait ages for the food to come and the poor children were completely famished. We were not given napkins and when we asked for some we were told that they had misplaced them. On the positive side the food was very good and the barmaid, who was very friendly, kindly replaced the glass of orange juice that the grandson knocked over. And the 2 children had a great time playing pool. We stayed for another hour or so after the end of our meal and nobody came to clear our empty plates although the pub was near empty so in the end I cleared the table myself! Add to that that there was no soap in the ladies. So sad to see such a good place deteriorate so badly. We certainly won't go back there.

I frequented this pub for the second time, this evening, nice atmosphere, great music, friendly, welcoming owner...but barmaid was greedy with money.

We visited as a family of three, the staff were really nice and helpful. The meals we had was delicious and the service we received was good. This is a good family friendly pub, the play area outside is spacious and lots to do for kids. Parking is available, overall a good place to eat.

Went to the wheatsheaf at eight o'clock but it was closed said open on-line not sure if this is a usual event but it would be great if this was advised by the public house so we don't waste our time

Awful place AVOID – food is well below average, overcooked, tasteless and highly overpriced. I doubt the owner / manager will take into account any of this review as she cares very little for the wellbeing of her customers and has no regard for allergies especially when serving food to young children, shocking!

Is this pub under new management? I have been coming here for years for business lunches, family meals and taking the grandkids to play in the excellent garden. I have always said I have never had a bad meal in a McMullens pub...well that changed drastically on Tuesday 7th August...... Firstly the grounds were filthy, cigarette butts, food debris, straws etc strrewn all across the grass in the garden area, this needs a serious clean up! My little 14 month old grandson picked up cigarette butts, yuck! We ordered a coke & lime and soda, the coke was soo pale it was just basically brown water, we had to send it back, my lime and soda, sorry soda and a dash of ime was ok.................. I ordered kids chicken nuggets, when they arrived they were fish fingers, we had to send that back..... my daughter ordered a jacket potato with cheese and coleslaw, can't go wrong with that? Well you can......what arrived was a jacket potato with what I can only describe as cat sick topping, it looked disgusting, some idiot (I assume a 'chef') had put cheese and coleslaw on a jacket potato and microwaved the whole thing, who in hell serves hot coleslaw?!?!? That obviously went back, what was replaced didn't look much better but at least the coleslaw was cold................... I ordered a jacket with tuna mayo, what I got was a well done on the outside jacket potato that was still hard on the inside covered in beige gloop................massive amount of horrible mayo speckled with tuna. The kids meal at £5.95 consisted of 5 chicken nuggets and some soggy, underdone chips. We left and went somewhere better value for money that serves edible food in a clean premises............................. lost a customer.

Nice family pub/ restaurant well over priced For pub food and not that good . Would pay the prices if the food was good But it’s not.

Visited here 3/6/18 around 1pm was quite to begin with but soon packed up. Food was pleasant and hot (glad we ate before it got to busy)Had various things off the menu but the halloumi fries stand out they were lovely but the rest of the food was just decent pub grub. Was a boiling hot day so I was surprised to see no umbrellas on the tables made it very uncomfortable to eat. Only a selected few tables were under the canopy. Kids had fun on the playground equipment but We ended up leaving earlier then we liked because a) there was literally no shade and the 5 kids were getting over hot and b) an hour after eating our plates still hadn’t been cleared. There seem to be only 1 gentleman serving food . This place has the potential to be great especially on a warm day but there just not there yet. Definitely room for improvement.

1) I asked for a brolly for outside on a boiling day ... They said they had none.

Went here for lunch last week with a friend and it was lovely. Ordered from their lunch menu and had the tuna melt sandwich, it came with a salad and a decent portion of fries that and my drink came to less than a tenner! Staff were friendly and helpful. Hadn't been here in a few months but will definitely come back sooner.

Wouldn't eat in the wheatsheaf again .Food cold and tasteless the place has gone done hill since eating there last summer it feels dirty inside and shabby the garden area all over grown only one member of staff on duty

At 51 I have eaten in many pubs over the years and a mixed bag of service and quality food. I am sitting here now have been served up a plate food that wouldn’t be good enough for the local homeless shelter

Decided to pop into this place as we were passing through and fancied Sunday Lunch. Inside is really worn, restaurant is basic and uncomfortable. Food all over the floor, dirty glasses all over tables.

Popped in today with my husband and two kids and had a great time. Attentive staff and a great play area for the kids. We had steak and was good value for money. Definitely be back!

Came here today with a couple of friends that are down from Scotland and I must say we were very impressed. We were served by a very friendly young man and the food was very good especially the homemade chips! Will be back soon.

We were a party of six adults and booked a table for dinner @ 20.00hours but was requested that could we come earlier at 19.45 hours and we assumed this was because the place would be busy. On arrival @ 19.45, we were the only customers in the pub and our table was the only one laid out! There was a special board on the wall that informed you of the other dishes that were available in addition to the dinner menu. We all chose our dishes but when the landlord came up to take our orders, he advised us that certain dishes were no longer available, including half roast chicken,rack of pork ribs,mixed grill and pie of the day. This put a dampener on the evening and most of ended up having either a steak and chips or scampi and chips which none of us really wanted. When I booked the reservation, the landlord must have known that he could not offer a full menu because we were the only diners he had that evening and our evening was spoilt by him not being honest with me and it will be a long time before we try out this place again

I went with family members for dinner one sunday evening. It is the first time for me since last October and the transformation was very good. It has been refurbished and now has a comfortable feel. The menu has also changed for the better. We all commented about the menu and enjoyed our meals. Good value

I have previously reviewed this place and don’t normally review a place twice but I feel the need.

Este es un ir al pub con el buen tiempo, debido a la fabuloso jardín y zona de juegos para niños. Desgraciadamente, la comida y el servicio es seriamente. . . . . . . . . No hay menú infantil. a la vista hoy. . . . . . Pedí un asado los domingos, era mediocre, el principal problema que la placa general era nadar en salsa de verduras sin sabor basado en hacer todo empapados. . . . carne estaba bien, pero cocidas y un poco duro. A la izquierda el yorkshire como era y realmente pasada mayoría underdone debido a estar cubierto de salsa aguada. Las opciones de menú se han vuelto muy restringido últimamente (como en todos los McMullen's) tratando de hacer una opción saludable es casi imposible. Se usa para servir el salmón con patatas, etc. ahora todo parece ser es comida de pub y patatas fritas y patatas fritas y patatas fritas. . . . . . . . . . . . Muy decepcionante. Comida mcmullen ha empeorado gravemente en el pasado año o así, es el mismo en la vid, es 2017 La gente quiere opciones saludables no sólo pasable, comida de pub estoy muy triste sobre eso:

He visto que hay algunos comentarios que no son demasiado buenas para este lugar, pero mi experiencia fue muy diferente. Llegamos a las 7 de la noche y disfrutamos de una comida. La zona del restaurante es amplia y no han intentado poner demasiadas tablas en el espacio. El personal era muy agradable y no esperar mucho tiempo para nuestra entrada. Toda la comida estaba bien presentada y muy agradable. Sólo había dos empleados del bar que también daban servicio a las mesas cuando estuvimos allí y veo que si mucha más gente, ellos pueden han luchado. Todo en el menú estaba disponible y todo a un precio razonable. Y sí, volvería.

Comido aquí mucho en el pasado, con un buen servicio.

Visité aquí para el almuerzo en 22 de junio, con mi hermana y mi sobrina que es autista y también sufre de TDAH. Ella corrió por el pub y pueden tener un chip robó de una placa de caballeros. Ella es 3. El director de forma grosera me dijo mi hermana "no creo que a su hijo le cabía muy bien aquí", el personal es antipático y no mostrar una sonrisa. Horrible.

La mitad del menú no estaba disponible, al parecer, la máquina de café y té se calienta cuando el clima se calienta (20 c).

Esperamos una hora y cuarenta minutos a que llegara nuestra comida. No se disculparon por el personal o de gestión. No podía creer que la falta de atención al cliente.

Pedimos nuestras comidas, pedí un recibo de su tarjeta de crédito, el chico reaccionó como él no me escuchaba. No recibo, no prueba ni mi pedido. Fuimos afuera. Hermoso día. 45 minutos después, uno de nuestro grupo fuimos a preguntar donde estaba la comida. Otros que después de nosotros tenía la suya y eran el mismo plato. Revisaron y dijo que debería ser que pronto. 10 minutos más tarde una persona diferente dentro de preguntar, fuimos les dijeron que estaba siendo adornos y sería poco. 10 minutos después de 1 hora y 16 minutos. nos dijeron que estaba hecho y sería el siguiente. 15 minutos más tarde (uno de nuestro grupo necesitaba salir para ir a trabajar), nos informaron de que la impresora había atorado, y la comida era justo entonces estar preparado. Ya que estaban haciendo entonces no podíamos irnos y obtener un reembolso. En los próximos 30 minutos nos dieron excusas como que no hay recibos como la impresora no funciona, la comida está siendo preparado, sin tener la comida en breve. Finalmente llegó mi plato y no como se explica en el menú. Me dieron más excusas. Varias personas vieron los problemas que estaban teniendo y llegó a hablar con nosotros. Algunos habían estado esperando durante más de una hora por sólo un plato de patatas fritas. Por último, el director dijo que después de que me dieron mi comida podría volver en parte por una sola copa en la casa. 8 personas alrededor de casi 2 horas. Por entonces estaba frío, no había asientos en el interior y uno de nuestro grupo de trabajo y más tarde dieron problemas. Nos mintieron a cuatro veces. Dos veces por el director y él sabía que él estaba mintiendo. Como el número de otras personas nos levantamos y salimos al mismo tiempo.

Visited on Mothers day having pre booked for 1200. There was not a written menu we were just told the choices, unclearly, by the waiter as he took each order. A print out of the special menu would have been a simple solution as this became very involved . After waiting 2 hours the main meals started to arrive . The meals all arrived separately and incorrectly. The staff kept bringing roast meals out that we had not ordered and steaks knives had to be requested. Bread rolls served were not Gluten free as asked for and had to be replaced. Eventually with some of the meals served asked for the Manager. Told him service was a complete shamballs. He said indifferently that the kitchen was small and that was the way it was run!!. At no time did any of the staff check we were ok or even acknowledge the length of time we waited for out food. They were still trying to give us another roast beef dinner, even though we all had meals, at one stage. Do not recommend going here until they get their act together. This pub in the past has been extremely busy and popular. They will loose custom unless they iron out customer service and new management teething problems.

Dropped in here for refreshments after a lovely walk in Lee Valley Park. Unfortunately the staff couldn't open the wine we chose! Very worrying for a pub.

Don't bother at the moment pub is between tenants. And is a. Bit rundown after the previous tenant was terminated due to falling sales a bit of a disaster for the brewer's.

There was a skeleton staff on 29th when we visited but the atmosphere, cleanliness and service did not fail because of this. The food was delicious too.

Nice pub feeling quite spacious inside. Good play area for little ones safely enclosed, as well as food changing facilities. Food over an hours wait which we were warned about before we ordered, however the coffee was good and all staff very friendly and helpful.

I stopped here last week for a late lunch and was really glad I did .pub was really clean and welcoming. Two staff members were really polite and welcoming .I ordered fish and chips and it arrived after about 15 minutes and it was really good .portions size is perfect .well done wheatsheaf will call again on next trip to Waltham Abbey area.

First time visiting the Wheatsheaf, very small and cosy looking pub. I came in for a meal with a friend, we both ordered a roast.A young chap with curly hair served us, he was very polite and served us with a smile, even came over to check on us and our food, the food was lovely.

Being in proximity to the Lea Valley country walks, we had intended to visit for some time. We arrived at the end of the Sunday lunch peak and we were well served. The main courses took half an hour but the order was correct and the food was hot. The staff were polite and attentive. The only real criticism I would have is that the cutlery should be provided during the 30 minute wait, not 3 minutes after the food has arrived!

Since the new management have taken over it is appalling. We went with my young son and was told to wait we waited for 30mins and not came over we then asked for a high chair was told by staff they would get one we waited 15mins in the end we just walked out after being in there 45mins and nothing my son was moaning as he normally has dinner at 6 and we went about 5 thinking he could have it early well we had to walk out just before 6

What a shame! It used to be good here but now gone downhill. Service recently is always very slow, even when there are hardly any customers?! To make it worse, the manager? (I think) actually had a go at one of his staff in front of a group of customers!! He was rude to her and his tone was absolutely unacceptable. All she did was ask a question about which tap to use and he really went on and on at her. It was embarrassing to watch and I felt really bad for her.Plus points would be that the pub does always seem to be spotless and when our food did eventually come it has been good, although one of our party got the wrong meal - not what you need when you have been waiting and hour for it!

put a review here after last visit, and it seems to have disappeared!! Very strange, as it seems to be only negative comments that stay?? We as a group of two families have never experienced any of the negative stuff on here. Went yesterday for the bank holiday sunday roast. It rained but kids were still happy colouring in. This place has simply, Good food, child friendly play area, car park, plus disabled access for friend who joined us. Would recommend.

This place used to be such a little gem in Waltham Abbey but since the new management have taken over I think it's the worst in the Abbey. 28th August Bank holiday Sunday I was invited for a meal with my hubby and baby, I did advise the Birthday boy that this pub isn't what it once was! A table of 12 of us arrived at 17:30 to find the place practically empty! Hardly any restaurant/pub is empty bank holiday Sunday! Ordered our food and sat outside. Food started coming in dribs and drabs - some people's starters arriving with their main meals (Staff said you didn't SAY IT WAS A STARTER even though it was a starter!) By 19:50 3 main meals hadn't even come no longer hungry, baby tired I just wanted to go home. After waiting nearly 3 hours our food came and it was a joke - Overcooked rice, chicken was chewy and was overall not what I expected for £10 a dish. The staff here need proper training on their menu as they all walk around with a glazed expression and seem to panic when you ask a question. Such a shame, when the old land lady was here the pub would have been packed to the rafters every Sunday and most definitely on a bank holiday.Plenty of other pubs in Waltham Abbey, just avoid this one!

The food was excellent. The restuarant was spotless. The staff were very friendly. The service was spot on. I would reccomend it .

My previous visit to the wheatsheaf was a disappointment really it use to be so nice and have lots of lovely food but now there is not a lot of choice and I had to wait nearly 1 hour for some cheesy wedges and it was hardly busy... It used to be one of my fav places to go but I am now gutted!

The Garden is the only thing going for this pub,. we ordrerd our drinks and food & told there was 45mins to an hour wait... we sat in the garden, tied our small dog under the table as we have always done every August for the last 6 years... when our food was served up, my husband popped back in to get another round of drinks and was told that the owner of the pub is asking why there is a dog in the garden area... staff felt embarrassed as they had just served up our food, (we had no idea the rules had changed about dogs) ,after my husband had eaten his food, and went in the pub again to get a cold drink for our grandaughter, owner complained again why is the dog still there! he had to go outside by the carpark, it was very hot and nowhere for him to sit, so he decided to go home... we stayed another 2 hours and in all that time, the plates were never collected.... We will not be going again, such a shame really, as the garden is ideal for small children.

Waste of money don't go you will regret it really bad service food terrible we left and went to the plough which was amazing

I would not recommend hiring/ dinning at the Wheatsheef Crooked Mile, Waltham Abbey. My family and I have experienced very poor customer service/ management and witnessed no real process's in place for new management/ private hiring contracts. I wouldn't want anyone else go through the same ordeal we did, please read below if you are looking to hire for any functions. January 2016, I made a booking with the Wheatsheaf for Saturday 10th June 2016 to celebrate my parents 10th Wedding anniversary for 50-80 people to attend. We was advised that we could hire the venue and we could hire a private DJ and order buffet food, we was also advised that we could have a member of staff on door duty to ensure that the party was kept as a private hire. The manager wrote the information down in the pub diary, taking our contact information and confirmed the booking verbally and supplied us with the buffet menu options in which we were to come back and confirm our choices. March 2016, My parents met with a male manager and gave the menu options finger buffet for 30 people stating that this is just the food amount required and does not reflect the numbers of attendees.On Tuesday 7th June 2016 (four days before the party) my parents dropped into the pub as courtesy to ensure the booking was all ok for Saturday. Sam (The managers partner) was in the bar at the time and showed them around to the area she thought was booked, where we were given a small area for 30 people. My father and his wife were very confused by this and later came home and discussed with myself, in which I wanted to contact Sam and clarify the booking as this worried us. I contacted the pub and went over the booking that was originally made with the Wheatsheaf and was advised that they are in fact new managers (of four months). I was advised that we could not hire the entire venue as they are not allowed to shut to the public and also could not shut the kitchen however we could have a area, this was not a preferred choice as we were originally promised private hire, however we would have gone ahead with these changes to ensure it did not affect our booking. We were also told that the pub did not have a DJ license as they were new owners and were not aware that any entertainment booked for Saturday. Sam advised and it takes 7days to apply for the DJ license or 5days for a rushed license to go though. Sam’s attitude throughout the conversation was very unprofessional she stated that this was ‘not her problem’ and ‘we should have contacted her out of courtesy to let her know about the booking’ in which this turned into heated discussion as we (the customers) were unaware of any new management as no one had informed us. I then pleaded with Sam asking to look into rushing through a DJ license as were now in a very stressful situation. Sam agreed to come back to us the following morning to advise if she was able to get a DJ license. Wednesday 8th June 2016, Sam contacted my father advising that she couldn’t get a DJ license and we could not use the venue. As soon as my father told me this information our priority was to get a venue booked ASAP. Utterly disappointed. In the meantime I contacted the McMullen’s head office and was told I would need to speak with ‘Luke’ the area Manager, I spoke with the receptionist and told her the matter of urgency as we were now without a venue. I did not hear back from Luke and then contacted again speaking with the PA who agreed that the situation was not dealt with professionally and she would pass the message on to Luke to contact me as a matter of urgency. Again no contact from Luke. I contacted the head office again on Thursday 9th June for an update, hoping to speak with Luke however he was again unavailable. Thursday 9th June at 15:34 I received a call from the Regional Director, we went over the circumstances and they tried to offer a ‘solution’ that we could now have the venue (the wheatsheaf), to me this was not a solution as we was told the day before that the venue was not available therefore we have had NO choice but to find a new venue as soon as possible and the party would be in two days time. I do also want to highlight the nonfactual information we received from Sam regarding the DJ license timescale as they managed to get one in 1 working day. Researching the license agreement act it seems that a license is only required between 8am and 11pm so I’m unsure of how this is a legitimate reason. I then got offered a quick fix of £100 bar tab towards drinks on the night at the new venue the plough (also one of McMullen’s), in which I did not accept.I have taken this further to the chairman of McMullen's and still awaiting a reply re my complaint on 10/06/16.

We arrived for a Father's Day meal, it wasn't busy which I found surprising! I ordered some food with my children and partner and was told a forty minute wait, baby was fed and happy,sun was shinning and children playing so I said fine. One hour and ten minutes later a member of staff approached and told us one of the items we ordered was not available which in its self is no issue but this is half hour over our waiting time and also meant our meal had not been cooked. One and a half hours later after baby was screaming and children were moaning because they were hungry I approached the bar and asked where our food was to be told " it will be with you soon" ten minutes later the food arrived for the adults but not the children's I took a bite into my burger to find it frozen in the middle, this was the last straw I went and asked to see the manager and found other people complaining and being told the manager was busy. I demanded a full refund which I received part of. I left hungry and very disappointed as the manger could not be bothered to rectify the issue. I couldn't knock the staff as they were helpful and trying the best.All in all I found that this ruined my fathers Day and had to come home and cook. I would not recommend until improvements have been made.

This pub has really gone down hill since Macks got rid. I can't comment on the food, but whoever looks after the beer needs retraining. Five times I've popped in for a quick pint, and there's never any A.K. on. It's a joke. I won't bother visiting any more.

Visited for lunch with friends it's been a while since I've been there. I chose from the specials menu as did 2 of my friendsThe food when it arrived was very well presented and far exceeded my expectations. The staff were helpful and very attentive. I will be coming back perhaps with family

Ive been here a few times before, and the service here has really improved. We were given a lovely welcome when we arrived looking to have a meal. We hadn't booked a table but were given some menus and also directed to their specials menu. That had some lovely interesting choices. I would recommend the Mexican Chicken. Our meals arrived really promptly and good value for money too!!The lady serving us was very friendly and stopped for a chat with us, which I felt was a lovely touch. I have been here before when its warm, they have a lovely beer garden-highly recommend

I visited the Wheatsheaf today with family. I would like to compliment the chef. I dined from the Specials board. The food was all home cooked and a very welcome changefrom the usual pub menu's.The service was friendly and they couldn't do enough for us.Will def. come back again with friends.

We went again give this place 1 more chance. Unfortunately nothing been changed. Really really poor service & this time food was not nice.we order bbq ribs & steak. Both of them was dry & over cook. No more this anymore.

Idyllic location beautiful sunny day lovely food but let down by unattentive staff and arrogant owner !

This place has always been a busy pub grub place, foods always been more than acceptable.Mistakes happen so an apology is normally expected !.The head honcho of this place does not think so.Go for a nice walk around High Beech in Epping Forest which is very close by, there are lots of nice eateries to chose from.

Food ok, steak a bit tough but it's pub grub so that was ok. Really disappointed that we finished eating the main meal at 8.40pm then tried to order the dessert at 9.05pm only to be told that the kitchen was shut, so we couldn't have a dessert !!! Would have been nice when the main meal plates were collected to have been told that we only had till 9.00pm to order. Shame really as we are local and will not be returning and will tell family and friends to avoid this pub. :(

I recently held my 60th birthday party here and I couldn't have asked for a better venue. I had about 90 family and friends attend and it was a perfect place. I had Kevin and his staff do the catering. Everyone said how lovely the buffet was and there was plenty of it. The staff were so friendly and helpful, they made the evening go so smoothly. I might add that my husband and I often eat there anyway and the food is always delicious. Prices are what you expect to pay in a pub and it is always served hot and with a smile.

Visited the Wheatsheaf for a post Christmas get together. Upon ordering drinks at the bar, other diners we complaining about the waiting time for food, although the restaurant was not busy. We wrote our food orders down and took these to the bar to place order. Even by doing this the order was processed wrongly and the wait for the correct food was an eternity. Only after several attempts to find out where the outstanding food wad did we get any sort of apology from staff.Could not recommend!!

We went for lunch with friends and their family. The staff welcomed us on arrival and showed us to our table. They were so helpful with the menu, as one of our children has a severe food allergy. They couldn't have been more helpful. The chef came out to speak to us, they got ingredients lists out and we selected something. I was pleased the kids menu wasn't full of rubbish but tempting to our children at the same time. The food arrived and was so tasty. We all cleared our plates. The roast turkey and veggie lasagne went down particularly well. The prices were really good value considering the service and freshness of the food. I'd definitely recommend the Wheatsheaf. A lovely pub, clean and welcoming with great food. There's a super little playground outside too.

Was a great experience and the food was quick hot and very nice to look at. Would recommend this pub to anyone especially families for a meal out being lunch or dinner. Excellent!

What a lovely Sunday roast this was on 6th September unlike the previous weekends very hit and miss describes it better. Was your last chance to prove yourselves with me you were successful. Was a very busy day and staff must have been rushed off their feet but standards were good. Keep up the good work in the kitchens

If you are looking for a nice place to eat either alone. couples or with kids this restaurant is ideal.There is plenty of parking, and once inside, it's bright. with plenty of seating and lots of space around. Moreoever the service is excellent.The menu is varied and don't forget to look at the chalk board for the dishes of the day. One can have fish, salads steak plenty to choose from. There is a kids menu as well.If the weather is nice eat outside and let the kids play in an area set aside for them. Swings and a bouncy castle too! And the price? Very reasonable.Would definitely go back again

My son and daughter in law actually worked here so although im biased it is a nice pub with good food and a very large play area when it is nice to relax have a drink and watch the children play on the items provided.

We often pop in here for lunch as a break from work. Food menu is pretty standard pub type fayre, reasonably priced. The pub it's self it nicely decorated. Service is generally good, however we avoid going in school holiday times as it gets very busy with young mums, kids, prams etc. good enclosed garden for he kids to play if you need that facility, often have a bouncy castle in the garden too.

Stopped here for lunch, food was nice - food came out quiet quick after ordering. Nice pub, friendly staff, only issue is the parking is limited.

Had a lovely lunch here with our family party of 14 without booking at lunchtime. Michelle did an excellent job in keeping us all happy with a variety of starters and mains for lunch. Food was nice, served quickly and all out at the same time without any problems.

Visited 4th May (Bank holiday) so expected it to be busy.. Car park was packed people even parking on the pavement! .. GREAT kids area with bouncy castle and alot of grass for them to run about on.Went in to the bar to order food and was told very bluntly food orders were not being taken for at least 30minutes. I then have to ask for an explanation.. I was told the kitchen was full of customer food orders that were from over an hour ago!My thought is MORE staff need to be working to keep up with the customer demand.Ended up walking out of the place because if you have to wait over 2hours for food then you know it will be rushed!

An average pub with great play area for kids and lovely staff. Food wont win prizes but the overall experience for families is good. An excellent play area with bouncy castle. Parking however is dreadful, parking on the path,blocking a busy road and no chance of using the pavement with a pushchair or wheelchair.

Went here for lunch with a group of friends from day centre. There was easy access ramps tinside and up to outside area under cover but steps down to grasses outside if you wanted to sit in sun Yuri would have to cross grass and Hanover steps.We had a table reserved for 5 wheechairs and 5 mobile people. We had to go to bar to order food and drinks we brought our own drinks to table. Food did not take long to arrive I ordered a chicken escalate which was slightly overcooked but still 'tasty with curly chips.portions were a good size and food was hot but Plate could have been warmer my dinner was cold within half an hour. Staff were very courtious and helpful looked like bartender was serving drinks and meals no one had any complaints about the food except the portions were too big. Disabled toilet and ramps.where we sat at back of pub was a little dark.

Booked table for six to celebrate 30th Birthday party, as it was a sunny day the pub grounds were heaving and what available staff that was visible were rushed off their feet. Sdaly as always, the British have NO clue whatsoever when it comes to lateral thinking in business ie: hot summers day, increased sales, more staff, more food stocks etc etc.I blame not the overworked and staff and Chef but the fat cat managers at the top who want maximum sweat out of minimal wages/staff. That said, due to the 'unexpected' rush the kitchen had to close at 7pm (how do these companys ever make a profit I ask?) after taking our order as they were running out of food...Aye Carumba...you coud not make it up.But once our order taken the food not only arrived in good time but was plentiful in the extreme, the hard working staff that were in attendance were brilliant, the food excellent. So kudos to those staff who made it a sucessful night for my daughters celebration-including the lovely lad who brought out her cake etc. You guys were brilliant....but fat cat management/owners..wake up, you are paid more than enough money so start reviewing your staffing levels and support your grafting staff.

Took family of 5 on Easter Day. It wasn't too busy, so can't explain the terrible service. 4 mains were quick to arrive, but the 5th failed to turn up. After asking twice it eventually arrived 15 mins after everyone else. In fairness they offered not to charge us for it.To follow we ordered a drink and 3 ice creams. Not complicated, but still took over 10 mins for the drink and over 15 for the ice creams. When you have tired, hungry children this sort of wait is painful.Even paying took ages. The food was fine, the play area was great, but we won't be going back.

This pub has a lovely menu and is a great find for a family Sunday lunch. The food is of a very high standard, everybody enjoyed their meals - from roasts to salads. The staff are all really friendly and accommodating. The pub itself is quite large, and benefits from a massive garden with a play area for the kids. We will definitely be coming back as we received a really warm welcome from the manageress and other staff, left with full tummies and had a lot of fun here.

Visited this pub today with my children for lunch all had a main course and a drink and £52 for 5 of us and no complaints everyone enjoyed it