Beloved Essex seaside pub once loved by King Henry VIII reopens after huge £300k refurb

A historic Essex pub, The Bellhouse, reopened on Wednesday (November 6) following a three week, £300,000 transformation. Built as a hunting lodge around the 16th century, The Bellhouse in Leigh-on-Sea was recent renovated, as its team have taken care to retain and enhance the pub’s original features while creating a fresh, stylish feel.

The pub was originally built as a hunting lodge, where it sits in the perfect hunting spot by the dense woodland. The hourly "dong" of its bell was known as a directional guide for hunters and travelling folk moving around the area. It is thought that from as early as the 13th century, English kings would visit the district for hunting, where they stayed nearby at Hadleigh Castle.

Henry VIII is the last king known to have hunted in the woods and is thought to have frequently visited the Bellhouse. It is reported that the ghost of Anne Boleyn may even still appear on site as it was one of her favourite hunting spots - before she was beheaded that is.

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Nowadays though, in the refurb, work has included redecorating throughout in warm colours and reupholstering all the furniture in soft tartans and velvets. The pub’s herringbone wooden floor has been restored, brightening the dining area, and its restaurant carpet has been replaced with a more contemporary design. The main bar has also been refurbished, keeping its classic brass look. An eye-catching new swing sign has been added, featuring a real bell, and the pub is being completely repainted, with the finishing touches expected to be completed at the start of December.

The pub has a large patio area and garden which a spokesperson for the pub shared is “perfect for alfresco drinking and dining, while during the colder months customers can relax by the open fires in the bar and restaurant areas.” The popular function venue, will now be able to cater for up to 200 guests with a range of buffet options available.

A new menu has also been announced, coinciding with the new opening. Head Chef Simon Spooner and his team have introduced a new menu celebrating the best local and seasonal produce.

A spokesperson shared: “Pies are a speciality, with a variety of delicious options - many incorporating Shepherd Neame’s award-winning craft ales and lagers - including Steak Shin and Bishops Finger Ale Pie, and Chicken, Ham Hock, Leek and Whitstable Bay Blonde Pie. Other menu highlights include the popular classics Haddock and Chips with Whitstable Bay Batter, and Ashmore Cheeseburger using Kentish Ashmore Cheese. There are also a tempting range of puddings on offer including Warm Double Chocolate Fondant with Shepherd Neame’s exclusive Creekside Coffee Ice Cream, and Clock House Farm Black Cherry Frangipane Slice using fresh Kentish fruit.”

An extensive selection of Shepherd Neame’s beers are available, along with a selection of acclaimed English wines, along with premium spirits and cocktails.

Managing Director, Pubs, Jonathon Swaine said: “We are delighted with the new look at The Bellhouse, and General Manager Athena Sigismondi and her team have already reported a fantastic reaction from customers. Our aim with this project was to really showcase the unique character of this stunning pub, while keeping its warm, traditional feel, and we are confident that it will continue to go from strength to strength.”

The pub is open every day from 12noon, serving food from 12 noon to 8.30pm, Monday to Saturday, and from 12 noon to 7pm on Sunday.