The Ale House, Chelmsford

Whoever came up with the idea for this pub is clearly a shrewd operator. Built into three railway arches underneath the end of Chelmsford Station one would not expect this to be an expensive building to buy or lease. The middle arch contains the bar, the left a room with large tables, stools and chairs and the right one the cellar, toilets, kitchen and anything else required. It is also right next to the bus station. The ceiling consists of curved corrugated stainless steel sheets which cover the brick above it and the walls have been covered with wood. There are up to twelve real ales and a similar number of ciders. My original plan was to leave here after one and go to a few pubs on the South side of town. Because it was Cup Final afternoon I checked with the barman to see if they had a TV screen and they didn't! I made the decision to stay as I much prefer the sound of trains trundling overhead than a load of boorish muppets screaming at a TV. They also had a half decent varied soundtrack playing in the background. Beers tried were £3.60 to £3.80 and were Oakham Curmudgeon, Colchester London Porter and Otter Head. Beers also noted were Dark Star Art of Darkness, Redemption Hopspur, Cameron's Galactico and Titanic Cappucino. All in all it's a good job and a must visit Chelmsford pub, but if you arrive by bus or train it's hard to miss!

This pub is situated under the railway arches and has 2 drinking areas and serves up to 12 real ales and a couple of ciders. All the beers I have tried so far have been in top condition. Next to the bus and railway stations

Called in before checking into the Travelodge earlier this month as we had missed it last time we were here and it was recommended to us, and we were impressed by the variety of the beer on offer. Quality was good, and there was a great almosphere in the bar from the workers breaking up for Christmas. We enjoyed beer from Revoltions, Summer Wine and Hop Monster breweries. We went in from the back, but found the front was by the bus station. Also just across the road from the railway station. The soup from the menu was good too. Will call again in Feb as we thought it the best in Chelmsford.