The Mistley Thorn, Manningtree

A historic inn built on the site of an earlier establishment that was once (reputedly) owned by Matthew Hopkins, the notorious Witchfinder General. However, it is now much more of an upmarket restaurant / boutique hotel than a pub. Completely refurbished inside in a gastro-pub style, with nearly all tables laid for dining but retaining a few stools at the bar and a tiny lounge area near the main door. Just a couple of faded Truman lanterns on the facade remain from its previous incarnation. Two handpumps, offering Adnams Bitter and Gunhill (£3.50, and in good form). Two local lagers - 3Point8 and Premium - from the farm-based Calvors Brewery are also available on tap. Overall, not really my sort of place, but at least it was open on a Friday lunchtime (unlike two other nearby pubs that I tried). NB - The Thorn is located in the shadow of Mistley's working maltings, and the aroma can be pretty overwhelming at times.

Official site of The Mistley Thorn - www.mistleythorn.co.uk

Official site of The Mistley Thorn - www.mistleythorn.co.uk

Wow - my friends and I ate here today as a birthday celebration - We do tend to lunch in and around the area too much!! But I had the Salmon with crayfish and basil sauce today and without doubt this is the most delicious meal I have eaten in as long as I could remember - you know when you eat something and you don't want it to finish - this was my salmon!!! Lovely and thank you x