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Detail Pages
The Old Bell, Sawbridgeworth
Sawbridgeworth
CM21 9AN
Reviews (Current Rating Average: 7½ of 10) see review guidelines
Bucking Fastard left this review about The Old Bell
Clearly an old building giving it's name to the street outside but there has been an aggressive refurb leaving a modern feel but lifeless vibe.The righthand door gives way to the tap room with some boxy modern tables and chairs,while the left hand door gives access to a lounge with dining style modern tables and fairylight .I walked into the beer garden with a terrific floral display and a vast awning at the end with ranks of high tables but No Smoking sighs everywhere.The mindless muzak was piped outside too.From the beer garden you can see the age of the building and also marvel at how much land is given over to the carpark which is barely used apart from a non operation food van.You could build a small town on that site and maybe the pub owner is waiting for the local planners to agree.
The kitchen wasn't turning out food as the pub was pretty much deserted on a Friday afternoon ,while the ale options were Doom Bar and Fullers Hophead,NBSS barely Acceptable and might explain the lack of customers.There is live music advertised and a quiz but I wouldn't rush back.
On 9th August 2026
- rating: 5
[User has posted 3252 recommendations about 3252 pubs]
Please Note: This review is over a year old.
Strongers . left this review about The Old Bell Inn
The left hand bar of the Old Bell feels like a hotel lobby and not just because there were people walking through with luggage as my wife and I entered. We soon made our way around to the right hand bar where the other patrons could be found. There was some background music playing from the jukebox and I noted that live music was advertised for the upcoming Friday evening. On the left hand wall is a decorated inglenook and throughout the pub are horse brasses, framed old money, plates and other knickknacks. Out the back is a beer garden that I did not visit.
The bar was stocked with standard draught and I counted four hand pumps. These were drawing Woodfordes Wherry, Adnams Broadside, Wychwood’s Hobgoblin Gold and Slack Alice Cider.
I like the friendly local atmosphere in here and would return if on the area.
On 6th June 2015
- rating: 7
[User has posted 6826 recommendations about 6787 pubs]
Please Note: This review is over a year old.
S D left this review about The Old Bell Inn
The Old Bell is now under new management - what a relief!! New Chef, soon they'll be a whole new menu and there are some new staff. The atmosphere is much nicer and we had a lovely roast in there yesterday. I look forward to being able to visit my local again!! Would recommend people give this place a try.
On 24th November 2008
- rating: 10
[User has posted 1 recommendations about 1 pubs]
Please Note: This review is over a year old.
edna daisy left this review about The Old Bell Inn
Apart from the dodgy rock bands, this pubs has great singers from time to time. Check out JD - great male singer who's had top 40 hits in his time. Also, Mia - she's also down at the King Willy - another (actually, even better) great little pub.
On 25th June 2008
- no rating submitted
[User has posted 1 recommendations about 1 pubs]