The Old Ship, Maldon

Opposite the tidal lock that connectes the Chelmer & Blackwater Navigation to the Blackwater Estuary the location is wonderfully interesting for salty sea dogs like myself.The pub itself is quite basic but homely with an open plan interior winding around a three sided bar.To the left is a darts board,a flatscreen with the rugby on at low volume,while to the right are large plate glass windows allowing great views over the coast.It gets very popular with visitors when the weather is good and ,although I didn't eat,plenty of others were from a hearty looking pub grub menu on chalkboards to one side.It appears there are three rugular real ale in Doom Bar,Adnams Broadside and Mighty Oak Maldon Gold,the latter in very decent shape.It's family run and the service was polite and cheerful,and I expect at quieter times a good pub atmosphere would prevail.The furniture is well worn ,there are no pretentions here. Outside there are wooden benches at the lock side which is a great place to drink al fresco ,the surrounding area is popular with dog walkers ,and the interior is very dog friendly. I enjoyed my trip and would use it again when in the area.