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At first glance the Bell Inn looks to be an ordinary pub. But that doesn't do it justice, because in fact it is quite extraordinary. Outside it is every inch of a magnificent medieval building, built as a prestigious residence in the village center, which despite being only 10 minutes from London's orbital motorway the M25 is a haven of peace and tranquility. Inside there are two wood-paneled and parquet bars, which served more than 140 different real ales last year and a friendly restaurant. And though horse-drawn coaches no longer stop here, the tradition of offering beds for the night continues.
Nothing extraordinary about this - there are probably 100s of pubs with similar descriptions and histories.
But what makes the Bell stand out is the extraordinary attention given by staff to the customers. The licensees John and Christine Vereker have been running this pub for a long time. And this no doubt is the key to its success, for it is a family run pub.
The restaurant's food is seriously good and like the best places features locally sourced ingredients - including Essex wood pigeon.
But the Bells has not forgotten that it is a pub and regulars arrive early and chat about racing dogs and the cost of cab fares, while enjoying a glass of one the well-kept beers.
Yes beer is important at the Bell - for when a German woman arrived in the bar - and couldn't decide what to drink, the barman said: "Madam why not try this," as he offered a sample of Greene King IPA, "its our national drink".
Bell Inn,
High Road,
Horndon-On-The-Hill,
Essex,
SS17 8LD
Tel: 1375 642463
www.bell-inn.co.uk
Tourist information:
www.hidden-treasures.co.uk
"The buildings in the village reflect its antiquity and importance. The parish church of St Peter and St Paul was largely completed in 1315 and stands on the site of a much earlier building."
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Regional Winners 2006
Overall Winners 2005
Regional Winners 2005
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