The King William IV - Essex

For over a decade, The King William IV has been a cornerstone of Chigwell's dining scene, earning its stellar 4.5/5 from over 1,600 reviews with a reputation for honest, well-executed British fare. Tucked away in this leafy corner of Essex, it's the kind of place where the menu reads like a love letter to classic comfort cooking—think proper Sunday roasts, golden-crusted fish and chips, and sticky toffee pudding that tastes like it came straight from Gran's kitchen. The team here clearly understands that simplicity, done right, is its own kind of brilliance.

What sets this kitchen apart is the attention to detail: the beef in their Sunday roast is slow-cooked until it falls apart, and their gravy is rich and dark, made from proper stock. The chips are twice-cooked for that perfect crunch, and the mushy peas have a freshness that cuts through the richness. Whether you're craving a hearty steak and ale pie or just a perfectly battered cod, this place delivers. They serve across Chigwell and the surrounding areas, making it an easy choice for a proper British dinner without the fuss.