STAFF at a hugely popular pub are celebrating after being named as one of the best pubs for food in the country.

The Bell Inn, in Horndon-on-the-Hill, was named as one of the top ten pubs in the country in the Good Pub Guide, earned a spot in the prestigious Good Food Guide 2018, as well as being named as the country pub of the year for Essex.

The guide aims to highlight restaurants where chefs have shown “excellence in their field and exceptional talent” - and nine of Essex’s finest eateries have been included.

Dating back to 1951, the Good Food Guide is the best-selling restaurant guide in the UK.

Nestled in the historic village of Horndon-on-the-Hill, The Bell Inn has been run by the same family for more than 75 years.

John and Christine Vereker have been running The Bell since 1970, and has been in the same family since it was bought in 1938.

Based in a 15th century coaching inn, the menu changes on a daily basis, using seasonal and local produce – all to be enjoyed next to the open fire.

The popular pub was also named as one of the top 30 best places to eat, drink or stay according to the Times.

A review about the venue said: “It’s easy to picture this inn as the bustling travellers’ pit stop it once was, with copper pots still hanging in rows from the timber beams.

“Many centuries ago visitors would rest here before crossing the Thames at Higham causeway.

“Now The Good Pub Guide’s Essex dining pub of the year is busy with guests keen to sample its decorative cocktails, or try a venison fillet with honey-glazed turnip, cider and raisin puree and confit game ravioli.

“Run by the same family for more than 75 years, the Bell has comfortable hotel rooms.”

The family also run The Ostlers Cocktail Bar and Restaurant just up the road.