Had dinner here in January 2010, our food was distinctly average. My green chicken curry was cold, the noodles were undercooked and it distinctly lacked in that key part of food - flavour. My family's food was little different. Now, if this were a pub selling food at pub prices, this would be a far more positive review, but the... More

Came to the Five Bells on Halloween this year with a group of friends. We all had guest beers from a choice of 5, which makes it quite difficult... So over the evening we had them all!! The landlord, Tony I think his name is or maybe Darran? sat with us for a while before disappearing into the kitchen. 30... More

Wonderful ambience, lovely staff and gorgeous, inovative, well-cooked food. We've visited this pub several times over the last couple of years and just can't find anything negative to say. The whole place is unpretentious, but so well-run and the welcome really genuine. Treat yourself to a lovely lunchtime or evening visit. More

We love coming to this place, Gilly is such a wonderful host and makes you feel so relaxed and welcome. After leaving work in London it's our half way stop before we get home. They always have a great selection of specials and the quality of food is exceptional. Cannot recommend this place highly enough. Duncan & Craig More

My husband and I visited the Five Bells last Sunday on their "buskers night" the bar was full of people young and old singing their hearts out! The atmosphere was electric and we felt totally comfortable, the evening was topped off by the most amazing paella cooked outside on the terrace in the biggest paella dish I have ever seen... More

Came here as one of the members of Ceoliac uk Colchester . We had a walk followed by lunch at the pub . The food was fantastic ! it is so hard to enjoy eating out when you are suffering from dietary allergies and this was just lovely . The staff were so helpful and all three courses looked and... More

We ate here for the first time today and really enjoyed our meals. All staff were welcoming and attentive, nothing too much trouble etc. This pub has a very good menu, offering a wide range of food. There are many gluten free dishes which are clearly indicated on the menu, including GF vegetarian choices! The wine list is very good... More

I came to Essex for a weekend visit and had heard very good things about the pub from a friend who lives locally. We came in for Sunday lunch after a country walk on a very hot day, and staff were very friendly and helpful, offering a very flushed-looking me a long glass of iced water the moment I came... More

We visited last night to celebrate my sister's birthday, and visit as regularly as we can. As always the food was amazing. Being able to eat out and knowing allergies are fully catered for makes the whole dining out experience enjoyable once again. Instead of wondering whether I will be able to eat anything at all, I am now spoilt... More