The Castle at Great Leighs: A Quintessential English Village Pub
A charming and cozy English village pub in Great Leighs serving freshly cooked, reasonably priced meals with friendly service and warm ambiance.
The Castle at Great Leighs is a welcoming and charming village pub located in Chelmsford, Essex. Known for its cozy ambiance, freshly cooked meals, and friendly service, it offers a pleasant dining experience with a moderately priced menu. The pub combines traditional English pub culture with a warm, inviting atmosphere, making it a favored local spot for both casual lunches and relaxed evening meals.
A brief summary to Castle - Great Leighs
- Main Rd, Chelmsford, Great Leighs, CM3 1NE, GB
- +441245362630
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 pm-10 pm
- Tuesday 12 pm-10 pm
- Wednesday 11 am-10 pm
- Thursday 12 pm-10 pm
- Friday 12 pm-11 pm
- Saturday 12 pm-11 pm
- Sunday 12 pm-10 pm
Local tips
- Visit during weekday lunchtimes for a quieter experience and enjoy smaller portion options on the menu.
- Try the classic pub dishes which are freshly cooked and highly praised by regular patrons.
- Reserve a table on Friday or Saturday evenings as the pub can get busier during these peak times.
- Engage with the friendly staff, who are known for their excellent service and local knowledge.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Castle - Great Leighs location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
-
Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Castle - Great Leighs
A Historic Village Pub with Character
Nestled in the village of Great Leighs near Chelmsford, The Castle at Great Leighs embodies the quintessential English pub experience. Its name evokes the rich heritage of the area, and the building itself reflects a traditional style that blends seamlessly with the rural Essex surroundings. The pub has long been a community hub, where locals and visitors alike gather to enjoy hearty meals and convivial company.Warm Ambiance and Friendly Service
Inside, the atmosphere is cozy and inviting, with a layout that encourages relaxed socializing. The staff are noted for their efficiency and warmth, contributing to the pub’s reputation as a friendly and welcoming venue. Regulars praise the attentive service, with team members like Amelia and Becky often mentioned for their helpfulness, enhancing the overall guest experience.Menu Highlights and Dining Experience
The Castle offers a menu that, while not extensive, is thoughtfully curated to provide good variety and quality. Dishes are freshly prepared, piping hot, and reasonably priced, catering well to both lunch and dinner crowds. The pub is known for its 'good grub,' appealing to those seeking classic pub fare with the option of smaller portions. This balance makes it suitable for casual meals or more substantial dining.Community and Cultural Significance
More than just a restaurant, The Castle serves as a social cornerstone in Great Leighs. Its role extends beyond dining, providing a space for local events and gatherings that strengthen community ties. The pub’s historic charm and enduring presence contribute to the cultural fabric of the village, making it a meaningful stop for visitors exploring the Essex countryside.Accessibility and Visitor Comfort
Open daily with extended hours on weekends, The Castle is accessible for both locals and travelers. The venue maintains a clean and comfortable environment, adhering to health and safety standards. Its location on Main Road makes it easy to find, and the welcoming setting ensures visitors feel at home whether stopping by for a quick meal or a leisurely evening.A Unique Blend of Tradition and Hospitality
The Castle at Great Leighs stands out as a blend of historic charm and contemporary hospitality. Its moderate pricing, combined with quality food and personable service, makes it a standout choice for those seeking an authentic English pub experience in a tranquil village setting. The pub’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to offer both comfort and character, inviting guests to relax and savor the best of Essex’s local culture.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Great Baddow Chain Home Radar Tower
13.2 km
The only complete Chain Home radar tower in the UK, a towering symbol of WWII air defence and Cold War innovation in Great Baddow.
Finchingfield Post Mill
16.4 km
Discover Essex’s oldest post mill, a charming 18th-century landmark overlooking the picturesque village of Finchingfield.
Nigel’s Gate
23.1 km
Discover Nigel’s Gate, a tranquil historic landmark in Little Henham blending rural charm with timeless English heritage.
Balkerne Gate
27.6 km
Explore Balkerne Gate, Britain's largest surviving Roman gateway, a monumental symbol of Colchester’s ancient Roman heritage and architectural mastery.
Roman Theatre
28.1 km
Ancient Roman amphitheatre where 3,000 spectators once gathered, now marked by darker paving in Colchester's historic streets.
Middle Mill Weir
28.2 km
Historic Middle Mill Weir on the River Colne, a testament to Colchester’s water-powered industrial heritage and enduring community spirit.
Natural History Museum
28.2 km
Discover Colchester’s natural past and present in a charming historic church turned family-friendly museum with free entry and engaging exhibits.
Colchester War Memorial
28.2 km
A dignified tribute in the heart of Colchester honoring the sacrifice and service of its wartime heroes.
Laindon War Memorial
28.6 km
A solemn tribute in Basildon honoring Laindon's wartime heroes, blending history with community remembrance.
Essex Wildlife Trust Fingringhoe Wick Nature Discovery Park
32.0 km
Discover the beauty of nature at Fingringhoe Wick Nature Discovery Park, a serene escape featuring diverse habitats and abundant wildlife.
Hadleigh Castle
32.1 km
Discover Hadleigh Castle, a historical gem in Essex with breathtaking views and rich heritage, perfect for history lovers and nature enthusiasts.
Prittlewell Priory
33.3 km
Discover the rich history and tranquil beauty of Prittlewell Priory, a captivating museum and former monastery in Southend-on-Sea.
Prittlewell royal Anglo-Saxon burial
33.4 km
Explore the earliest princely Anglo-Saxon burial in England, revealing a royal Christian tomb rich with ancient treasures and history.
Two Tree Island
33.5 km
Explore the natural beauty and tranquility of Two Tree Island, a perfect getaway for nature lovers and adventure seekers in the UK.
Kentwell Hall
33.6 km
Explore Kentwell Hall, a stunning Tudor gem in Suffolk, rich in history, lush gardens, and engaging events for an unforgettable experience.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Rayleigh Arms
4.7 km
A warm, traditional Essex gastropub in Terling serving hearty classics and fostering community spirit.
Braintree & Bocking Public Gardens
7.2 km
Discover peaceful walks, diverse trees, family fun, and a welcoming café in Braintree’s cherished green oasis.
Cressing Temple Barns
7.3 km
Explore 13th-century Templar barns and a Tudor walled garden in the Essex countryside – a peaceful, historic escape with free public access on non-event days.
Essex Police Museum
9.9 km
Explore Essex’s policing history through engaging exhibits and interactive displays at this family-friendly museum in Chelmsford.
Admirals Park and Tower Gardens
10.4 km
A historic and tranquil green oasis in Chelmsford, blending Victorian gardens, riverside walks, and family-friendly recreation.
Chelmsford Cathedral
10.4 km
A peaceful, historic sanctuary in Chelmsford city centre blending medieval charm with vibrant community spirit and cultural events.
Bond Street Chelmsford
10.5 km
A vibrant modern shopping and leisure precinct in Chelmsford, blending retail, dining, and riverside charm.
High Chelmer Shopping Centre
10.6 km
Chelmsford’s vibrant indoor shopping centre with over 80 stores, diverse dining, and convenient parking all under one roof.
Meadows Shopping Centre
10.7 km
A vibrant community hub in Chelmsford offering diverse shopping, dining, and family-friendly leisure in the heart of the city.
Central Park
10.8 km
Historic Chelmsford park blending nature, sports, family fun, and vibrant community events across 35 acres of green space.
Talliston House & Gardens
11.7 km
Explore a magical 25-year transformation of an ordinary house into Britain’s most extraordinary home filled with stories, art, and global treasures.
Chelmsford Museum
11.9 km
Explore Chelmsford’s rich history through immersive exhibits and family-friendly activities in the heart of Oaklands Park.
The Essex Regiment Museum
11.9 km
Explore the rich military heritage of the Essex Regiment amidst the tranquil beauty of Oaklands Park in Chelmsford.
Danbury Country Park
12.9 km
Historic lakes, ancient woodlands, and vibrant meadows converge in this tranquil Grade II listed country park near Chelmsford.
Hylands Park
13.0 km
Explore 574 acres of historic parkland and a stunning neo-classical mansion in Chelmsford's cherished Hylands Park.
Essential places to dine
Castle - Great Leighs
0.0 km
A charming and cozy English village pub in Great Leighs serving freshly cooked, reasonably priced meals with friendly service and warm ambiance.
The Square & Compasses
2.3 km
A charming Essex countryside gastropub blending rustic warmth with refined British cuisine and local ales.
Galvin Green Man
3.9 km
Historic 14th-century gastropub near Chelmsford offering award-winning seasonal British cuisine in a charming countryside setting.
Rose & Crown - Great Waltham
4.9 km
Essex village gastro pub where seasonal menus and warm hospitality create memorable dining moments.
Pig & Whistle Restaurant
7.8 km
Charming 16th-century countryside restaurant in Chelmsford offering award-winning British cuisine and a cosy, intimate dining experience.
Pig & Truffle
8.3 km
Historic charm meets modern British cuisine in a cozy village setting, delivering refined flavors and warm hospitality at Pig & Truffle.
Samphire Restaurant @ The County Hotel
10.3 km
Award-winning British cuisine with fresh, local ingredients in a stylish, family-friendly Chelmsford setting.
Bill's Chelmsford Restaurant
10.5 km
A vibrant British restaurant in Chelmsford’s town centre, serving all-day meals, seasonal specials, and welcoming guests with a lively atmosphere.
Cosy Club
10.6 km
Experience timeless art deco charm and inclusive British dining at Cosy Club Chelmsford, open all day for every occasion.
Fête at Grays Brewery Yard
10.6 km
Eclectic global flavours and vibrant cocktails in a quirky, welcoming eatery at Chelmsford’s lively Brewery Yard.
Acanteen
10.7 km
Chelmsford’s all-day bar, restaurant and live music venue – brunch, pizza, cocktails and events in a buzzing city-centre setting.
The New London
11.2 km
Upscale Chelmsford restaurant offering scratch-made dishes, attentive service, and a cozy contemporary lounge atmosphere.
Russells Restaurant
12.3 km
Historic vaulted barn setting meets refined French and English fine dining with seasonal dishes and exceptional service in Great Baddow.
Bartellas Restaurant
16.2 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean cuisine in a warm, inviting setting nestled in the Essex countryside near Ingatestone.
Vita Bella
16.4 km
Authentic Italian cuisine with fresh local ingredients in a charming village setting near Chelmsford.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
George Yard Shopping Centre
6.6 km
A vibrant pedestrianised shopping hub in Braintree offering diverse stores and a welcoming community atmosphere.
Riverside Retail Park
10.0 km
A convenient and lively retail hub in Chelmsford offering diverse stores, eateries, and accessible parking on Victoria Road.
The Curiosity Shop
11.1 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures in the heart of Great Dunmow at The Curiosity Shop, a charming boutique with a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The Emporium Maldon
16.0 km
A beloved family-run gift and garden shop in Maldon’s historic High Street, renowned for variety, community spirit, and local charm.
Love Local Essex & Suffolk
20.8 km
Discover unique, handcrafted treasures celebrating the rich heritage and creativity of Essex and Suffolk at this charming Copford gift shop.
The Baytree Shopping Centre
27.0 km
A practical and accessible shopping centre at the heart of Brentwood, offering everyday essentials and local services.
French Quarter
27.0 km
Discover unique gifts and artisan homewares in Brentwood’s welcoming French Quarter boutique.
Minnie's Boutique
27.0 km
Discover unique styles and personalized service at Minnie's Boutique, a charming ladies' clothing shop in Brentwood, perfect for every fashion enthusiast.
The Factory Shops
27.5 km
Discover unbeatable bargains and a diverse range of discounted goods at The Factory Shops, Rayleigh’s favorite value retail destination.
Bestdays Vintage
27.9 km
Discover sustainable vintage fashion and eclectic music treasures in a cozy, welcoming Colchester shop with a personal touch.
Rocks & Rubies
28.1 km
Discover rare crystals, artisan gifts, and spiritual treasures in the heart of historic Colchester.
B-Invogue - Ladies Clothes Essex
29.2 km
A friendly Epping boutique offering stylish, affordable ladies’ fashion in a welcoming, personal setting.
Blush Boutique Essex
30.7 km
Chic and contemporary ladies’ fashion boutique on Epping High Street, blending quality, style, and comfort in every piece.
The Lovely Shop
30.8 km
Explore the unique offerings of The Lovely Shop in Burnham-on-Crouch, where local craftsmanship meets delightful gift ideas.
Emporium on the Quay
31.1 km
Discover unique local crafts and gifts in a charming riverside boutique on Burnham-on-Crouch’s scenic Quay.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Ale House
10.4 km
Chelmsford’s vibrant craft beer bar where you can bring your own food and enjoy a welcoming, lively atmosphere with expert service.
Voodoo Keller Bar
10.4 km
Discover Chelmsford’s underground cellar bar with 12 craft taps, lively rock vibes, and a cosy atmosphere perfect for beer lovers and night owls.
Boom Battle Bar Chelmsford
10.5 km
Chelmsford’s premier games bar blending axe throwing, shuffleboard, street food, and cocktails for unforgettable nights out.
Slug & Lettuce - Chelmsford
10.7 km
A vibrant cocktail bar and restaurant in Chelmsford offering creative drinks, stylish interiors, and a lively social atmosphere from brunch to late night.
The Bootmaker
10.8 km
Historic Chelmsford pub and cocktail bar blending tradition with modern social dining and handcrafted drinks.
Be At One - Chelmsford
10.8 km
Discover over 100 cocktails and vibrant nightlife at Be At One Chelmsford, featuring rooftop terrace and unbeatable happy hour deals.
The Orange Tree
11.2 km
A lively gastro pub in Chelmsford offering excellent ales, hearty meals, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
Fox & Hounds
12.5 km
A welcoming Chelmsford pub offering hearty British classics, lively sports viewing, and a warm, friendly atmosphere for all visitors.
The Fox and Goose
14.9 km
A modern gastropub in Chelmsford blending traditional charm with seasonal British cuisine and inviting garden dining.
The Queen Victoria Public House
15.7 km
Historic British pub in Maldon offering freshly prepared fare, an extensive wine list, and warm, attentive service in a charming setting.
The Bear Inn - Stock
18.6 km
A warm, traditional gastropub in Stock offering hearty British fare, a large beer garden, and a welcoming village atmosphere.
The Leather Bottle Blackmore
19.6 km
A charming gastropub in Blackmore blending quirky decor, seasonal British cuisine, and a welcoming village atmosphere all year round.
George And Dragon Mount Nessin
22.0 km
A charming British gastropub in Mountnessing blending rustic tradition with modern dining and a welcoming atmosphere.
Harry's Bar
23.0 km
A stylish and welcoming bar and restaurant in Billericay’s heart, perfect for relaxed dining and vibrant socializing.
Cristi's Bar
23.5 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and expertly crafted cocktails in Billericay’s vibrant and stylish Cristi's Bar.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Popworld - Chelmsford
10.6 km
Experience Chelmsford’s ultimate pop-themed nightclub with vibrant music, creative cocktails, and unforgettable themed parties.
Club Tantalize
10.8 km
Chelmsford’s largest and most luxurious lapdancing club offering stylish nightlife with live pole shows and private VIP experiences.
Bar & Beyond Chelmsford
10.8 km
A large, lively nightclub in Chelmsford known for affordable drinks, vibrant atmosphere, and a mix of praise and controversy around its staff and music.
Rubix Bar & Nightclub
27.6 km
Experience Colchester’s lively nightlife with Rubix Bar & Nightclub’s energetic music, vibrant dance floor, and welcoming social scene every weekend night.
Trilogy Nightclub
28.0 km
Experience Colchester’s vibrant nightlife at Trilogy Nightclub, where diverse music and energetic crowds create unforgettable weekends.
The Loft Basildon
28.9 km
Experience Basildon’s vibrant dance scene with energetic music nights, friendly staff, and a lively atmosphere at The Loft Basildon.
Epping Roof Garden & Nightclub
30.6 km
A stylish rooftop nightclub in Epping blending lively nightlife with blooming garden charm and sophisticated cocktails.
The Lounge Jazz Club
30.8 km
Experience intimate jazz and soul performances in a cozy, elegant venue near Southend Airport with fine drinks and a lively atmosphere.
The Moonraker Club
34.5 km
A vibrant, intimate nightclub in Westcliff-on-Sea with top DJs, a powerful sound system, and a lively social scene for unforgettable nights out.
MooMoo Clubrooms Southend
34.5 km
Experience Southend’s vibrant nightlife with diverse music rooms, top DJs, and a lively atmosphere at MooMoo Clubrooms.
Just Vibez
35.0 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and non-stop dancing at Just Vibez, Southend-on-Sea’s energetic nightclub hotspot.
Foundation
35.4 km
Vibrant nightclub and bar in Southend-on-Sea offering lively music, crafted cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere for memorable nights out.
Sunrooms2
35.4 km
Experience Southend-on-Sea’s dynamic nightlife at Sunrooms², where live music and DJ-driven parties keep the energy alive until the early hours.
MYST Club
35.7 km
Experience the vibrant pulse of Southend-on-Sea’s nightlife at MYST Club, where music, dancing, and social energy converge.
The Hertford Club
40.3 km
A historic private members’ club in Hertford, renowned for real ales, hearty home-cooked meals, and a vibrant social scene.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Cozy
- Relaxing
- Casual
- Lively
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Weekend Getaway
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly