Just a stone’s throw from Chelmsford, Stock is the sort of village that feels almost too perfect to be real. With its leafy lanes, handsome homes and slow pace of life, it’s a picturesque pocket of rural Essex.
But don’t mistake Stock’s gentility for dullness, this place knows how to pour a pint. With three standout pubs and a lively community spirit, there’s plenty to raise a glass to.
At the heart of the village is The Hoop, a characterful pub with centuries of stories. Originally built in 1460 as three weavers’ cottages, it is now a local institution, with its low ceilings and old warship beams giving it genuine rustic charm.
Each May, it hosts a beer festival known as ‘Hoop Fest’ that draws ale enthusiasts from near and far. There’s music, laughter, and more barrels than you can count. It is a proper village knees-up.
A short stroll down the road takes you to The Bear, another firm favourite with locals and visitors alike. With roaring fires in winter and a smart garden come summer, it’s a year-round destination for relaxed dining and a good chat over a pint.
The third of Stock’s beloved boozers is The Bakers Arms, cosy and quietly stylish. It serves up seasonal dishes and Sunday roasts that keep people coming back week after week.
While the pubs get much of the attention, there’s more to Stock than just good food and drink. The village is steeped in history, from the Grade I-listed All Saints’ Church, which dates back to 1232, to the quietly elegant windmill that sits just beyond the village boundary.
Despite its countryside charm, Stock is surprisingly well-connected. Chelmsford is just minutes away by car, and London is easily accessible by train, making it a popular destination for commuters seeking the best of both worlds.
There used to be a fourth pub, but it’s now a hotel, adding to Stock’s small but growing appeal as a weekend destination. Visitors come for a country escape without sacrificing creature comforts.
The village green is often the site of seasonal events and family fun. Whether it’s Easter egg hunts or Christmas lights, the community always finds a reason to gather.
In Stock, history meets hospitality in the most inviting way. It’s no wonder those who stumble across it often wish they’d found it sooner.
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