An old smugglers' inn, the Peldon Rose exudes character and charm. With 500 years of hospitality behind them it's no wonder they know exactly what their patrons want. Located just outside historic Colchester, on the way to Mersea Island, it has undergone a refurbishment and presents a refreshing new face.

At the Peldon Rose expect good local food made with fresh produce, notably Mersea Island fish and quality butcher meats. Whet the appetite with deep fried Brie with raspberry sauce, corn fed chicken goujons or Maldon smoked salmon. Then move on to a ploughman's, sirloin baguette or smoked haddock Florentine. For the main course relish slow braised lamb shank, farmhouse omelette or tiger prawns linguine. End the satisfying meal with sticky date pudding, lemon meringue parfait or caramelized rice pudding. A wide range of robust ales and fine new and old world wines is excuse enough for the Peldon Rose's patrons to linger on. There are facilities here for children and the physically challenged.