Best Bars in Essex

Discover the finest bars for your corporate events in Essex. Compare the best venues near you to privatise a bar or organise your next cocktail reception and team drinks with our event experts.

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Our top bars in Essex

Looking for the best bar for your corporate event in Essex? Whether you're organising a drinks reception, a team celebration or a cocktail evening, Essex offers excellent bars with private areas and tailored packages.

Holiday Inn Brentwood M25, Jct.28

4.1/5 (1644)

About bars in Essex

Essex is a vibrant corporate bar destination, offering a mix of charming rural pubs, modern cocktail lounges, and trendy waterfront bars. With its diverse landscape ranging from picturesque countryside to bustling urban areas, Essex provides the perfect backdrop for corporate drinks receptions, team celebrations, and cocktail evenings. Key nightlife neighborhoods like Chelmsford and Southend-on-Sea are home to an array of bars that cater to both casual and sophisticated events.

Accessibility is a strong advantage for corporate groups in Essex, with excellent transport links via rail and road. The proximity to London makes it an ideal location for hosting events, while local venues are well-equipped to handle groups of various sizes, ensuring a seamless experience for your corporate gathering.

4 types of bars in Essex

Professionals networking at a corporate event cocktail reception in a modern event space.

waterfront cocktail lounges

Southend-on-Sea boasts stunning waterfront cocktail lounges that are perfect for corporate events. Venues like The Olde Watermen offer a blend of coastal charm and modern amenities, accommodating groups of up to 100 guests. With panoramic views of the estuary, these lounges provide a relaxed environment for team celebrations and networking events.

Glasses of craft beer on tasting paddles at a brewery, ideal for a team building activity.

craft beer bars

For beer enthusiasts, Essex is home to several craft beer bars, such as The Beer Emporium in Chelmsford. With a rotating selection of local brews and a capacity for up to 80 guests, this venue is ideal for informal gatherings and team-building events. The casual atmosphere encourages conversation and camaraderie among colleagues.

Cafe de Paris hotel and restaurant in Biarritz, a corporate dinner venue, with outdoor seating at dusk.

historic pubs

Essex's historic pubs, like The Saracens Head in Braintree, offer a unique setting for corporate drinks. With its rich history and cozy ambiance, this pub can accommodate up to 60 guests, making it perfect for intimate receptions. The combination of traditional charm and modern service ensures a memorable experience for your team.

Aerial view of a tropical corporate retreat venue with palm trees, bungalows, a pool, and a turquoise beach.

garden bars

For a relaxed outdoor setting, garden bars like The Garden at The Compasses in Littley Green provide a beautiful backdrop for corporate events. With ample space for up to 120 guests, this venue features lush greenery and outdoor seating, ideal for summer gatherings and team celebrations. The tranquil atmosphere fosters a sense of relaxation and enjoyment.

Activities & experiences around Essex

Essex offers a variety of activities and experiences to complement your corporate drinks event. Explore local bar experiences with guided brewery tours, wine tasting sessions in nearby vineyards, or team-building activities such as escape rooms and outdoor adventures.

Chelmsford: A bustling city with a vibrant nightlife scene and numerous bars to explore.
Southend-on-Sea: Known for its waterfront attractions and diverse nightlife options, perfect for post-event entertainment.

Why host your corporate drinks in Essex?

Essex is an excellent choice for corporate bar events, offering a blend of urban sophistication and rural charm.

Reason 1: A diverse range of venues from historic pubs to modern cocktail lounges.
Reason 2: Easy accessibility from London and surrounding areas, making it convenient for guests.
Reason 3: Scenic waterfront locations that create a memorable experience.
Reason 4: Abundance of activities and attractions for team-building and entertainment.
Reason 5: A welcoming atmosphere that encourages networking and collaboration.

Six uniformed staff with flags welcome guests at a grand historic chateau, an ideal corporate event venue.

How much does a corporate drinks event in Essex cost?

Corporate drinks events in Essex typically range from £20 to £60 per person for cocktail receptions, depending on the venue and package chosen. Full bar privatization may require a minimum spend of around £1,500, while open bar packages often range from £30 to £50 per person. Use Naboo to compare real quotes and find the best options for your budget.

A white passenger airplane soars through a bright blue sky, perfect for corporate incentive trips.

How to get to Essex

Essex is easily accessible via several transport options. The nearest major airport is London Stansted, which is well-connected to the region. Train services from London Liverpool Street to various Essex towns make travel convenient, while the M25 and A12 highways provide direct road access. Local public transport options, including buses and taxis, ensure smooth transit within the area.

Why choose the best venues to host your events in a bar in Essex ?

A carefully curated bar selection

Naboo offers a tailored selection of bars in Essex, ensuring you find the perfect venue for your corporate event.

Dedicated expert support

Our team is on hand to assist you throughout the planning process, providing expert advice and recommendations.

Everything in one place

With Naboo, you can compare venues, check availability, and book all in one easy-to-use platform.

Transparent pricing

We provide clear pricing options, so you know exactly what to expect without hidden fees.

A large team celebrates in a multi-level corporate event venue, perfect for company offsites.

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FAQ: Bars & corporate drinks in Essex

Essex offers a variety of bars suitable for corporate events including waterfront cocktail lounges, historic pubs, craft beer bars, and garden bars.

To privatise a bar in Essex, you typically need to contact the venue directly or use platforms like Naboo to facilitate the booking and negotiation process.

You should budget between £20 and £60 per person for cocktail receptions, with full bar privatization requiring a minimum spend of around £1,500.

It’s recommended to book your bar at least 4-6 weeks in advance, especially during peak seasons or holidays.

Naboo simplifies the process by allowing you to compare venues, check availability, and get real quotes, ensuring you find the right bar for your needs.

Latest bar & nightlife inspiration for your next event

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