The Cross Keys is based a couple of miles south of Braintree itself, in the lovely village of White Notley. With beautiful countryside and fantastic walks surrounding White Notley, it's a hotspot for nature lovers and dog walkers alike, and we highly recommend driving down from Braintree to explore the area surrounding the village with your dog.

Whilst you're there, you will of course need some grub and a drink. We couldn't recommend The Cross Keys more for such an excursion. It's well loved by Braintree and Essex locals. There's plenty of reasons why. It's situated in a beautiful Grade II 17th Century building. They serve a whole range of local Essex ales. And the food is all fantastic wholesome stuff, cooked only with the most local of suppliers.