The best restaurants serving British food in Rettendon and Runwell Chelmsford East of England

We booked at the Lodge today, for a Sunday Carvery with nine adults and three lively grand children in the party. From the moment we walked into the restaurant, we were taken care of by the excellent, capable and super helpful staff. Nothing was too much trouble for them and the young lady who took our varied orders for 12 meals must have a photographic memory as she didnt write it down but was 100% accurate when the drinks and food came out. Jane was running the carvery and had it well under control and was very helpful. where there was a lull in the carvery que, then Jane took the opportunity to check everyone was happy and even made time to entertain the grand children with funny hats etc. The service then, was excellent, so too was the food. The general cleanliness in the restaurant and toilets was also very good indeed. The quality of the carvery meat and associated veg etc was excellent and prices very reasonable. Two of our party are Vegan and were very happy with the nut roast that they had. I would therefore have no hesitation in recommending the Lodge for a Carvery or menu meal to anyone and I will for sure be returning there as soon as I get a chance for another carvery or a meal off the menu. SW Chelmsford 16.3.25

I think this is our favourite nursery cafe. It's a bit dark inside and can be a bit noisy as it's so popular but the staff are great, offering table service, which is so convenient. We were between jobs so just stopped off for some toast and coffee. Very nice. Extra butter and marmite. Yummy.

Exceptional service by Sara!! Very friendly and great ambiance of the place is great as well! First time here and recommend any and everyone to pass By!!

First time I’ve been here today,will definitely return.

Been here a few times to eat and highly recommend the food. Sunday roast was fantastic. Nice friendly staff and feel good pub.

Lunch with a friend and a couple of beers. Great food and service. Busy but time to look after us. A table in the main area. Excellent.

Really lovely pub/restaurant. Been to Battlesbridge many times but never been in the Barge before as gluten free, so presumed they wouldn’t do this. Took a chance this time as hungry and how wrong was I? Great menu. Wasn’t goi g to have a starter but they had White bait GF and haven’t had this in years. Delicious. Then had the pork/bacon egg and chips. Absolutely lovely. Portions were good. Husband had chicken wings starts and the Wednesday roast lamb. So nice we didn’t want to leave anything but I had to. Daughter had white bait and Barge burger. Everyone enjoyed their options. Staff were excellent. Very friendly and helpful. Great value for money. This is really a little gem.