The Old Bell, Sawbridgeworth

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 9^th August 2026 - rating: 5
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