The delightful Essex village pub loved for its scrumptious roast dinners often visited by celebrities

Singer Rod Stewart having lunch at The Barge Inn in Battlesbridge
-Credit: (Image: Barge Inn)


Pubs with a brilliant roast dinner, a class lager line up and dog-friendly facilities are a must-visit across the county. One Essex pub has all of this and more - and has even been visited by some A-list celebs.

If you are looking for an individual pub with great character, fantastic beer, delicious food and excellent service – look no further than The Barge Inn at Battlesbridge, a dog friendly pub. Well-behaved dogs are welcome in both the beer garden and bar here.

The pub says that it is the perfect place to enjoy cask-conditioned ales and craft beers. It also offers an interesting range of bottled beers, craft ales and lagers from around the UK and across the world.

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The Barge Inn's roast dinners are also top tier, too, with customers giving them the utmost praise. One reviewer said: The BEST roast dinner I've ever had (and I've had my fair share)."

Others praised the portion sizes, and the pub's value for money. Unlike some, the pub also has vegan and gluten free options, making it a brilliant dinner out for everyone.

The pub is not just loved by locals, either, as some pretty big names have lunched in the Barge Inn. Sir Rod Stewart was photographed by staff at the Barge Inn in Battlesbridge as he tucked into his lunch on Sunday September 5 2021.

At the time, David Ripo, owner of the pub, said his staff were over the moon with Sir Rod coming to visit. He said: "It came out of the blue, he was out on a bit of a walk around the area, and around the antiques store in Battlesbridge.

"He said he had heard good things about the Barge. Grace Perkins, our supervisor, served him and said to him 'Are you who we think you are', and he said 'I think so'."

The pub is well known in the area, and really tries to have a brilliant team serving customers. The Barge Inn says: "No great pub experience is complete without great people – and we pride ourselves in offering a truly excellent service.

"We have a well-motivated and experienced team both front of house, and in the kitchen. We are focused on providing high-quality service and customer satisfaction – we will do everything we can to meet your expectations."

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