Pig & Whistle Restaurant, Chelmsford
Charming 16th-century countryside restaurant in Chelmsford offering award-winning British cuisine and a cosy, intimate dining experience.
Nestled in the tranquil countryside of Chelmsford, the Pig & Whistle Restaurant offers a unique fine dining experience within a charming 16th-century setting. Known for its warm, cosy ambiance and attentive service, it serves a diverse menu featuring locally sourced British dishes, seasonal specials, and a celebrated Sunday carvery. Ideal for intimate meals, celebrations, and enjoying picturesque rural views, this award-winning venue blends rustic charm with elevated cuisine.
A brief summary to Pig & Whistle Restaurant
- Chignal Road, Chelmsford, CM1 4SZ, GB
- +441245443186
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2.5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Wednesday 12 pm-4 pm
- Thursday 12 pm-4 pm
- Friday 12 pm-4 pm
- Saturday 12 pm-4 pm
- Sunday 12 pm-7 pm
Local tips
- Book in advance, especially for weekend dinners and special events like Steak Saturdays or the Taste of Essex.
- Try the Sunday carvery for a generous and traditional British roast experience.
- Consider dining in the outdoor elevated dining room during warmer months for scenic countryside views.
- Children under 10 are not permitted, ensuring a quiet and adult-focused atmosphere.
- Look out for seasonal set menus and festive specials for great value and unique dishes.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Pig & Whistle Restaurant location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Pig & Whistle Restaurant
A Historic Countryside Gem
Set in a beautifully preserved 16th-century building on Chignal Road, the Pig & Whistle Restaurant exudes rustic charm and character. Its antique-filled interior, decorated with eclectic treasures and trinkets, creates an intimate and welcoming atmosphere that feels both cosy and refined. The restaurant’s countryside location offers peaceful views over rolling farmland, enhancing the sense of escape from urban bustle.Exquisite Culinary Craftsmanship
The kitchen, led by award-winning Chef John Saward, crafts a menu that celebrates local Essex produce with a modern British flair. Dishes range from hearty Sunday roasts and classic fish and chips to innovative seasonal creations like pan-seared duck breast or tofu pad thai rice noodles. The menu includes vegetarian and vegan options, with a focus on fresh, thoughtfully sourced ingredients. Signature dishes such as Beef Wellington and Great Garnetts pork trio showcase the chef’s skill and dedication.An Ambience of Warmth and Elegance
The Pig & Whistle’s ambiance is a harmonious blend of cosy and elegant, enhanced by soft jazz music and candlelit tables. Its quirky, eccentric decor complements the relaxed yet sophisticated vibe, making it a perfect setting for romantic dinners, family celebrations, or special occasions. The recently added outdoor dining room offers a shaded elevated platform with stunning views of the surrounding countryside, ideal for warm-weather dining.Award-Winning Service and Local Commitment
Recognized with multiple Essex Life Food and Drink Awards, including Best Fine Dining and Outstanding Service, the restaurant prides itself on exceptional hospitality. The friendly and attentive staff create a welcoming environment where guests feel truly valued. The Pig & Whistle also hosts annual events like the Taste of Essex, highlighting the best local ingredients and producers, reinforcing its commitment to the community and sustainability.Seasonal Menus and Special Offers
The menu changes seasonally to reflect the freshest available produce, ensuring a dynamic and exciting dining experience year-round. Notable offerings include affordable set menus, Steak Saturday specials, and a festive menu during the holiday season. Desserts such as the highly recommended blueberry panna cotta provide a delightful finish to any meal.Perfect for Memorable Occasions
With its combination of historic charm, culinary excellence, and attentive service, the Pig & Whistle is a sought-after venue for weddings, anniversaries, and intimate gatherings. The restaurant’s adults-focused ambiance (children under 10 are not permitted) ensures a peaceful and refined dining experience. Whether dining indoors or enjoying the scenic outdoor space, guests are treated to a truly memorable visit in the heart of Essex countryside.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Great Baddow Chain Home Radar Tower
8.6 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
21.9 km
Discover Essex’s oldest post mill, a charming 18th-century landmark overlooking the picturesque village of Finchingfield.
Laindon War Memorial
22.2 km
A solemn tribute in Basildon honoring Laindon's wartime heroes, blending history with community remembrance.
Nigel’s Gate
23.7 km
Discover Nigel’s Gate, a tranquil historic landmark in Little Henham blending rural charm with timeless English heritage.
Prittlewell Priory
30.9 km
Discover the rich history and tranquil beauty of Prittlewell Priory, a captivating museum and former monastery in Southend-on-Sea.
Walden Castle
30.9 km
A quiet medieval ruin on a grassy mound, Walden Castle in Saffron Walden offers a glimpse into 12th-century power struggles and centuries of quiet decay.
Saffron Walden Museum
30.9 km
Explore Saffron Walden Museum, a historical gem showcasing local heritage, archaeology, and natural history in a charming setting.
Prittlewell royal Anglo-Saxon burial
31.0 km
Explore the earliest princely Anglo-Saxon burial in England, revealing a royal Christian tomb rich with ancient treasures and history.
Bridge End Garden
31.1 km
Explore the enchanting Bridge End Garden in Saffron Walden, a serene park filled with vibrant flowers, historic features, and tranquil pathways.
Audley End House and Gardens
31.1 km
Explore the grand Audley End House and its stunning gardens, a historical gem in Saffron Walden showcasing England's heritage and architectural beauty.
Hillhouse Wood
31.6 km
Experience the tranquility of Hillhouse Wood in Colchester, a perfect escape into nature with stunning views and diverse wildlife.
Southend Central Museum & Planetarium
32.1 km
Discover local history and celestial wonders at Southend Central Museum & Planetarium, a must-visit attraction in Southend-on-Sea.
Lexden Earthworks & Bluebottle Grove
32.2 km
Explore Lexden Earthworks & Bluebottle Grove, a historical landmark in Colchester rich in ancient heritage and serene natural beauty.
Wayfinding Stone
32.3 km
Explore the Wayfinding Stone in Southend-on-Sea, a unique monument that symbolizes navigation and adventure, connecting visitors to local heritage.
Mersea Island Museum
33.0 km
Explore the rich maritime heritage of Mersea Island at the captivating Mersea Island Museum, a hidden gem for history enthusiasts and travelers alike.
Unmissable attractions to see
Chelmsford Cathedral
5.1 km
A peaceful, historic sanctuary in Chelmsford city centre blending medieval charm with vibrant community spirit and cultural events.
Central Park
5.1 km
Historic Chelmsford park blending nature, sports, family fun, and vibrant community events across 35 acres of green space.
High Chelmer Shopping Centre
5.2 km
Chelmsford’s vibrant indoor shopping centre with over 80 stores, diverse dining, and convenient parking all under one roof.
Bond Street Chelmsford
5.4 km
A vibrant modern shopping and leisure precinct in Chelmsford, blending retail, dining, and riverside charm.
Meadows Shopping Centre
5.5 km
A vibrant community hub in Chelmsford offering diverse shopping, dining, and family-friendly leisure in the heart of the city.
Essex Police Museum
5.6 km
Explore Essex’s policing history through engaging exhibits and interactive displays at this family-friendly museum in Chelmsford.
Chelmsford Museum
6.0 km
Explore Chelmsford’s rich history through immersive exhibits and family-friendly activities in the heart of Oaklands Park.
The Essex Regiment Museum
6.0 km
Explore the rich military heritage of the Essex Regiment amidst the tranquil beauty of Oaklands Park in Chelmsford.
Hylands Park
6.1 km
Explore 574 acres of historic parkland and a stunning neo-classical mansion in Chelmsford's cherished Hylands Park.
Hylands House
6.9 km
Historic Grade II* listed mansion and expansive parkland offering luxurious weddings, elegant events, and stunning Essex countryside views.
The Rayleigh Arms
9.9 km
A warm, traditional Essex gastropub in Terling serving hearty classics and fostering community spirit.
Danbury Country Park
10.9 km
Historic lakes, ancient woodlands, and vibrant meadows converge in this tranquil Grade II listed country park near Chelmsford.
Great Notley Country Park
11.6 km
Explore Essex’s largest play trail, thrilling Sky Ropes, and serene natural beauty at Great Notley Country Park’s 100-acre family-friendly haven.
Talliston House & Gardens
12.4 km
Explore a magical 25-year transformation of an ordinary house into Britain’s most extraordinary home filled with stories, art, and global treasures.
Ingatestone Hall
12.8 km
Explore the intimate grandeur and Tudor heritage of Ingatestone Hall, set within serene gardens in the heart of Essex countryside.
Essential places to dine
Pig & Whistle Restaurant
0.0 km
Charming 16th-century countryside restaurant in Chelmsford offering award-winning British cuisine and a cosy, intimate dining experience.
Rose & Crown - Great Waltham
2.9 km
Essex village gastro pub where seasonal menus and warm hospitality create memorable dining moments.
Galvin Green Man
4.1 km
Historic 14th-century gastropub near Chelmsford offering award-winning seasonal British cuisine in a charming countryside setting.
Samphire Restaurant @ The County Hotel
4.6 km
Award-winning British cuisine with fresh, local ingredients in a stylish, family-friendly Chelmsford setting.
Bill's Chelmsford Restaurant
5.4 km
A vibrant British restaurant in Chelmsford’s town centre, serving all-day meals, seasonal specials, and welcoming guests with a lively atmosphere.
Fête at Grays Brewery Yard
5.4 km
Eclectic global flavours and vibrant cocktails in a quirky, welcoming eatery at Chelmsford’s lively Brewery Yard.
Acanteen
5.4 km
Chelmsford’s all-day bar, restaurant and live music venue – brunch, pizza, cocktails and events in a buzzing city-centre setting.
Cosy Club
5.5 km
Experience timeless art deco charm and inclusive British dining at Cosy Club Chelmsford, open all day for every occasion.
The New London
5.6 km
Upscale Chelmsford restaurant offering scratch-made dishes, attentive service, and a cozy contemporary lounge atmosphere.
Castle - Great Leighs
7.8 km
A charming and cozy English village pub in Great Leighs serving freshly cooked, reasonably priced meals with friendly service and warm ambiance.
Russells Restaurant
8.0 km
Historic vaulted barn setting meets refined French and English fine dining with seasonal dishes and exceptional service in Great Baddow.
The Square & Compasses
8.4 km
A charming Essex countryside gastropub blending rustic warmth with refined British cuisine and local ales.
Bartellas Restaurant
9.0 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean cuisine in a warm, inviting setting nestled in the Essex countryside near Ingatestone.
Pig & Truffle
10.6 km
Historic charm meets modern British cuisine in a cozy village setting, delivering refined flavors and warm hospitality at Pig & Truffle.
Hoop at Stock
12.2 km
Historic 15th-century gastropub in Stock village serving award-winning modern British cuisine in a cozy, traditional setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Riverside Retail Park
5.1 km
A convenient and lively retail hub in Chelmsford offering diverse stores, eateries, and accessible parking on Victoria Road.
The Curiosity Shop
12.1 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.
George Yard Shopping Centre
14.2 km
A vibrant pedestrianised shopping hub in Braintree offering diverse stores and a welcoming community atmosphere.
The Emporium Maldon
17.7 km
A beloved family-run gift and garden shop in Maldon’s historic High Street, renowned for variety, community spirit, and local charm.
The Baytree Shopping Centre
19.4 km
A practical and accessible shopping centre at the heart of Brentwood, offering everyday essentials and local services.
French Quarter
19.4 km
Discover unique gifts and artisan homewares in Brentwood’s welcoming French Quarter boutique.
Minnie's Boutique
19.4 km
Discover unique styles and personalized service at Minnie's Boutique, a charming ladies' clothing shop in Brentwood, perfect for every fashion enthusiast.
B-Invogue - Ladies Clothes Essex
22.3 km
A friendly Epping boutique offering stylish, affordable ladies’ fashion in a welcoming, personal setting.
Blush Boutique Essex
23.6 km
Chic and contemporary ladies’ fashion boutique on Epping High Street, blending quality, style, and comfort in every piece.
The Factory Shops
24.0 km
Discover unbeatable bargains and a diverse range of discounted goods at The Factory Shops, Rayleigh’s favorite value retail destination.
Gifts for All Home Decor
27.3 km
Discover unique, stylish home decor and gifts at Gifts for All Home Decor, Hadleigh’s charming boutique with quality and affordability.
Love Local Essex & Suffolk
27.7 km
Discover unique, handcrafted treasures celebrating the rich heritage and creativity of Essex and Suffolk at this charming Copford gift shop.
La Luna Boutique
29.2 km
Discover unique bohemian fashion with a vintage rock ’n’ roll edge at La Luna Boutique in Leigh-on-Sea.
Store Thirty3
29.9 km
A charming gift shop on Elm Road offering unique local treasures in the heart of Leigh-on-Sea’s vibrant coastal town.
Latham Street
30.0 km
Discover sustainable vintage fashion reimagined with style and care at Latham Street in the heart of Leigh-on-Sea.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Ale House
4.8 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
5.2 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
5.3 km
Chelmsford’s premier games bar blending axe throwing, shuffleboard, street food, and cocktails for unforgettable nights out.
The Orange Tree
5.5 km
A lively gastro pub in Chelmsford offering excellent ales, hearty meals, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
Slug & Lettuce - Chelmsford
5.5 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
5.5 km
Historic Chelmsford pub and cocktail bar blending tradition with modern social dining and handcrafted drinks.
Be At One - Chelmsford
5.5 km
Discover over 100 cocktails and vibrant nightlife at Be At One Chelmsford, featuring rooftop terrace and unbeatable happy hour deals.
Fox & Hounds
6.5 km
A welcoming Chelmsford pub offering hearty British classics, lively sports viewing, and a warm, friendly atmosphere for all visitors.
The Fox and Goose
7.2 km
A modern gastropub in Chelmsford blending traditional charm with seasonal British cuisine and inviting garden dining.
The Leather Bottle Blackmore
11.9 km
A charming gastropub in Blackmore blending quirky decor, seasonal British cuisine, and a welcoming village atmosphere all year round.
The Bear Inn - Stock
12.3 km
A warm, traditional gastropub in Stock offering hearty British fare, a large beer garden, and a welcoming village atmosphere.
George And Dragon Mount Nessin
14.5 km
A charming British gastropub in Mountnessing blending rustic tradition with modern dining and a welcoming atmosphere.
Harry's Bar
16.4 km
A stylish and welcoming bar and restaurant in Billericay’s heart, perfect for relaxed dining and vibrant socializing.
Cristi's Bar
16.8 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and expertly crafted cocktails in Billericay’s vibrant and stylish Cristi's Bar.
The Queen Victoria Public House
17.0 km
Historic British pub in Maldon offering freshly prepared fare, an extensive wine list, and warm, attentive service in a charming setting.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Popworld - Chelmsford
5.4 km
Experience Chelmsford’s ultimate pop-themed nightclub with vibrant music, creative cocktails, and unforgettable themed parties.
Club Tantalize
5.5 km
Chelmsford’s largest and most luxurious lapdancing club offering stylish nightlife with live pole shows and private VIP experiences.
Bar & Beyond Chelmsford
5.5 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.
The Loft Basildon
22.8 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
23.6 km
A stylish rooftop nightclub in Epping blending lively nightlife with blooming garden charm and sophisticated cocktails.
The Lounge Jazz Club
28.4 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
31.7 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
32.1 km
Experience Southend’s vibrant nightlife with diverse music rooms, top DJs, and a lively atmosphere at MooMoo Clubrooms.
Just Vibez
32.6 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and non-stop dancing at Just Vibez, Southend-on-Sea’s energetic nightclub hotspot.
Foundation
32.8 km
Vibrant nightclub and bar in Southend-on-Sea offering lively music, crafted cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere for memorable nights out.
Sunrooms2
32.9 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
33.2 km
Experience the vibrant pulse of Southend-on-Sea’s nightlife at MYST Club, where music, dancing, and social energy converge.
Faces NightClub
33.3 km
A stylish, vibrant nightclub in Gants Hill with immersive sound, dynamic visuals, and a versatile space for unforgettable nights and events.
Rubix Bar & Nightclub
34.2 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
34.7 km
Experience Colchester’s vibrant nightlife at Trilogy Nightclub, where diverse music and energetic crowds create unforgettable weekends.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Romantic
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Weekend Getaway
- Day Trip
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Adults Only
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly