top of page
All Posts


ART AT THE PARK
From 1st February to 4th February, Braxted Park in Essex will be hosting a unique contemporary art show , featuring over fifty local and national artists, including many established and sought after names, alongside new and emerging talent. Not only will attendees have the opportunity to view and purchase original art, sculpture, prints, glass, and ceramics, all proceeds will go directly to Home-Start Essex , a family support charity. THE LOCATION Set in 500 acres of parklan
Jan 3, 2024


WINTER GUIDE 2023
Explore the charm of East Anglia in winter with our complete guide for the colder months of 2024. Discover the finest gardens of Essex to explore on a crisp morning, immerse yourself in history on the Norfolk coast or at Norwich Castle, connect with nature by seeking out wildlife in Suffolk, and experience hidden spots of Cambridge. All of these activities are within reach of one of our cosy pubs. E S S E X C A M B R I D G E N O R F O L K S U F F O L K E S S E
Dec 21, 2023


CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE
Whether you're agonising over what to get your Dad or looking for a stocking filler for the work Secret Santa, our gift guide is home to an array of ideas that aren't spotted on the high street shelves. STOCKING FILLERS Created and brewed by The Eight Bells Head Chef, David, in collaboration with Barsham Brewery , Eastern Gold brings together two businesses where provenance is an essential ingredient. Our 10th anniversary brew is sold on tap in our pubs, but also ask behind
Dec 9, 2023


A FESTIVE FAMILY STAY AT THE WEEPING WILLOW
Written by Katie of @thesundayfeeling - gifted pr stay There’s nothing quite like being tucked up by a roaring fire in a cosy country pub to start the festive season. The Weeping Willow , located in the heart of the Suffolk countryside in Barrow, is the perfect spot to do just that. I was delighted to have the opportunity to visit last weekend with my husband and two children to experience the wonderful Festive Stay package. THE WEEPING WILLOW PUB It’s always a joy stepping
Dec 1, 2023


CHRISTMAS EXPERIENCE GUIDE
From Christmas light shows to Father Christmas himself, gift fairs to winter workshops, there's so much to see and do in our region this season. It is easy to imagine yourself in the pub cosying up by the fireside with a mulled wine in hand after spending a day enjoying festive fun in East Anglia. Read on to discover a some of our favourite events and experiences happening in and around our pubs this Christmas. SUFFOLK Kick off the Christmas countdown in our Winter Garden Tip
Nov 13, 2023


WE'RE HERE FOR THE BOOS!
Just as the clock struck midnight, a glass fell with a smash on the bar floor and footsteps were heard running down the corridor above... Whether you're a believer or not, there's no denying that haunted pubs are a great topic of walking tours, paranormal investigations and chats, over a pint at the dead of night! And, while it's Halloween and all, we thought we'd share a few stories of our own that we were told while researching the history of some of our pubs. THE WEEPING W
Oct 20, 2023


COLD WATER SWIMMING SPOTS AND THE SURPRISE BENEFITS
Cold water swimming is not only an exhilarating and enjoyable activity but also offers a range of remarkable health advantages. You might be wondering how subjecting yourself to icy waters could be beneficial, but trust us; the benefits are numerous! Plus, we've sought out the best spots for chilly dips near our pubs. UNVEILING THE HEALTH BENEFITS Many avid swimmers have embraced cold water swimming during the colder months for its potential health perks. If you're hesitatin
Oct 18, 2023


LOCAL LEGEND: CHRIS AT THE THREE BLACKBIRDS
For over ten years Chris was Artist in Residence at The National Stud, so it doesn’t surprise me that the man walking through the bar is wearing a paisley print cravat and fleece gilet. Although I imagine that The National Stud would have been one of the most rewarding places to exhibit, the most interesting certainly sounds like the time he got back to his car after a food shop and a stranger had left a note on the windscreen asking if they could buy the painting they’d seen
Oct 18, 2023


AUTUMN DINING
Nothing says autumn quite like crispy pork crackling and roast potatoes. Or maybe settling in by the fire and sharing a molten camembert and bottle of red. Or, a juicy steak straight off the coals or a burger stacked nice and high. Not forgetting the most popular dish of the colder season, the sticky toffee pudding! Our autumn menus are in full swing and ready to be taste-tested by you... SHARING ROAST Think fluffy roast potatoes, giant Yorkies, lashings of gravy and plentifu
Oct 18, 2023


LOCAL LEGEND: KEV AT THE FEATHERS
Introducing our latest project showcasing the role of our pubs in the local community with stories told by ‘local legends’. It may be that they hold interesting anecdotes about the pubs past, or are a character rooted in the community, or they may hold knowledge about the history of the town or village. This month we introduce our first, rock ‘n’ roller, ‘local legend’ Kevin. Or Kev for short. “I like rock and roll, man, I don’t like much else” Sitting opposite me in dark sha
Sep 26, 2023
bottom of page


