Braintree’s character, shaped by its history as a market town with roots in the wool and silk trade, is reflected in its venues. From former textile mills now serving new purposes to long-standing inns, the town’s architectural spirit permeates its gathering spaces. This blend of the old and the reimagined offers a unique character to each establishment, echoing Braintree’s evolution from a Saxon settlement by the River Brain to its present form. Exploring venues across Braintree reveals these influences. In the Town Centre, you can find traditional establishments housed in buildings once serving the bustling market, alongside contemporary offerings in repurposed structures. Heading towards Bocking, the older village architecture often translates into venues with a more intimate appeal. Meanwhile, areas like Great Notley feature newer spaces designed to complement its green landscapes, or facilities catering to a modern community. This directory provides a view of these locations, detailing places for leisure, dining, and community events. Our entries are reviewed to capture the rhythm of Braintree life, ensuring what you discover here reflects the experiences available throughout the town and its neighbourhoods. Each venue, in its own way, contributes to the town's fabric, reflecting Braintree’s heritage and contemporary character.
Featured places are selected local venues we recommend or that partner with The City Brief.
Pub Restaurant
Mulberry TreeThe Mulberry Tree Brewers Fayre is a pub restaurant located on the Braintree Bypass, within the Braintree Village area. This spot is known for its Sunday Carvery, a traditional roast with plenty of extras. Locals and visitors go to the Mulberry Tree for family meals, casual lunches, and evening drinks.
View Info →Food & Drink
The StoresThe Stores, located on Bank Street in Braintree, is part of the town’s growing local commerce scene. It’s known for its clothing, homeware, and gifts, and is a key shopping destination. Both residents and visitors come to The Stores for everyday purchases or to browse new items.
View Info →Cat Cafe
Meow Cat CafeMeow Cat Cafe is a cat cafe on High Street in Braintree. It’s a calm place to escape the activity of the local market and shops. The cafe lets visitors spend time with cats while they enjoy refreshments.
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Coffee SquaredCoffee Squared Beaulieu is an independent coffee shop on Centenary Way in Chelmsford. It offers a calm atmosphere within a busy area, providing a welcome break for residents and visitors. Coffee Squared is known for its Smoked Salmon & Smashed Avocado on Sourdough Toast, plus a menu of coffees and cocktails.
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D's Cafe DinerD's Cafe Diner is an American-style diner on Bocking End in Braintree. It’s a handy spot for anyone traveling through Essex. D's Cafe Diner is known for its generous all-day breakfasts and classic comfort food.
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Curry BoxCurry Box is an Indian restaurant on Cressing Road in Braintree. It's a convenient dining spot for those nearby. Locals and visitors consistently praise their Chicken Tikka Masala.
View Info →231 total places
The Stores, located on Bank Street in Braintree, is part of the town’s growing local commerce scene.
View Info →Cat Cafe
Meow Cat CafeMeow Cat Cafe is a cat cafe on High Street in Braintree.
View Info →Cafe
Coffee SquaredCoffee Squared Beaulieu is an independent coffee shop on Centenary Way in Chelmsford.
View Info →D's Cafe Diner is an American-style diner on Bocking End in Braintree.
View Info →Restaurant
Curry BoxCurry Box is an Indian restaurant on Cressing Road in Braintree.
View Info →The Lounge Bar is a bar on Market Square in Braintree.
View Info →42 total places
181 total places
Pub Restaurant
Mulberry TreeThe Mulberry Tree Brewers Fayre is a pub restaurant located on the Braintree Bypass, within the Braintree Village area.
View Info →Flying Theater
The FlyerThe Flyer is a Flying Theater located on 39 Pier Jamboree Road at The Embarcadero Pier 39 in San Francisco.
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Square and CompassesThe Square and Compasses is a public house located on Fuller Street in Great Leighs.
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The White Horse InnThe White Horse Inn is a pub on Mill Road, Ridgewell, offering a traditional atmosphere in the local area.
View Info →Hotel
Fox and HoundsThe Fox and Hounds is a hotel located on Chapel Street in Steeple Bumpstead, a village just outside Braintree.
View Info →Restaurant
The Battesford CourtThe Battesford Court is a restaurant on Newland Street in Braintree.
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