The Moorhen, Harlow

A purpose built Hungry Horse chain pub in the outskirts of Harlow probably tells you all you need to know about this barn style edifice.Most punters access the interior by going up a flight of exterior steps,but if you walk around the perimeter and into the garden you come across a modern day vision of hell,a restaurant area with it's own bar and a large indoor play area.With children free to roam around the space and into the garden,this really should be avoided by all but the parents and their offspring. The higher level area has a long bar infront of the entrance and a drinking area to the left with it's own pool table ,some bench seating and views over the carpark.To the right of the bar is a large dining area,mainly seating booths, surrounded by picture windows giving good views over the nearby marina and the River Stort with occasional passing boats.Up some stairs there is a small garrett with five tables where it is possible to escape from the worst of the noise of children. There is a bog standard pub grub menu with value pricing and very large portion sizes.The food always arrives in a suspiciously short time .Two handpumps dispense GK IPA in a North/South style and Abbott.I wish I could say that there are better pubs within a short distance,but this is Harlow after all.