Muddy Stilettos names top 10 most loved Essex pubs

The Three Horseshoes in Fordham has been included in the list <i>(Image: Newsquest)</i>
The Three Horseshoes in Fordham has been included in the list (Image: Newsquest)
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The most-loved pubs across Essex have been named, with all 10 hoping to win at an annual awards.

Each year, lifestyle magazine Muddy Stilettos get their readers to vote for the best businesses across the county.

Many are recognised across a range of categories, including cafes, pubs, restaurants, and much more.

The nominees have now been announced, with readers able to choose their favourite up to May 26, when voting closes.

The regional winners will be revealed on Tuesday, June 16 2026


Most-loved pub in Essex nominees

  • Jolly Sailor (Heybridge Basin)
  • Lion and Lamb (Dunmow)
  • The Butchers Arms (Dunmow)
  • The Chequers (Matching Green)
  • The Cricketers Arms (Rickling Green)
  • The Hare & Hounds (Layer Breton)
  • The Hoop (Stock)
  • The Plough (Great Bentley)
  • The Three Horseshoes (Fordham)
  • The White Hart Inn (Margaretting Tye)

The website publishes live updates, giving readers a better idea of who may be in line to win through their "voting cocktail", showing the percentage of votes that have been collected.


This year, the Muddy Stilettos awards are bigger than ever.

Residents can vote for their favourite places and venues across Essex in 21 categories

New categories for 2026

  • Best Afternoon Tea
  • Fashion & Interiors
  • Artisan Food & Drink Producer
  • Best-Loved Local Pub
  • Wellness Breaks

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