Southend seafront pub among best dog-friendly pubs in Essex

As the weather gets warmer, many of us will be looking forward to enjoying a refreshing cold beer in a pub garden during a sunny afternoon.

And, having your furry, four-legged friend by your side really takes the experience up a notch.

While many pubs do not allow dogs into their premises, there are plenty of pup-friendly pubs and bars across south Essex.

So, we asked Echo readers on Facebook to give us their favourite dog-friendly hangouts in the area.

Here are some of the most popular responses:

[This is not an exhaustive list as there are plenty of brilliant dog-friendly pubs in the area, give your favourite a shout-out in the comments if we've missed them!]

The Borough Hotel, Marine Parade

Dogs rule the roost at this Southend seafront pub. 

Dog lovers Joan and Barry Tiney have owned the business for more than 40 years, but Bobby “the boss”, a 12-year-old Staffie, has been greeting regulars and newcomers since he was three months old.

Their daughter Nicki previously told the Echo: "It’s like a kennel in here sometimes. But it’s nice for people to take the dog for a walk, then come out of the cold for a coffee or a pint."

Landlady Joan, 73, says people visit the pub “just to see the dogs” with one couple coming all the way from Wimbledon four times a year to bring them treats.

The pub is among one of the best as the couple behind it see dogs as part of the family and say being "genuinely" dog-friendly is a big draw for people.

Cock Inn, Rochford

This watering hole in Hall Road has a table full of treats for your four-legged friends, water bowls, and even a special menu just for dogs.

The Greene King pub's huge garden is also perfect for both pups and visitors to enjoy the outdoors.

Tripadvisor reviewer Marcelle H said: "Friendly and relaxing place to have very good food and even better that the dogs - well behaved mind - could join us. Plenty of space for them to lie down by the table.

"We had a round table on a raised platform at front of dining area. 

"We will definitely be back thanks to Tony and team!"

Half Crown, Benfleet

This High Street pub was a popular choice among readers, and its no surprise as the business prides itself on being dog-friendly.

Owners are free to use the doggie bowls, water, treats and dog waste bags and - just like the Cock Inn - they even get their own menu.

The pub's pooch station (Image: Half Crown Benfleet)

A Google reviewer shared: "Having spent the morning walking through Benfleet Downs, my pupster and I were tired and hungry. Did a quick bit of Googling, read this pub was dog friendly and we popped in.

"Because pup is a Rottweiler, she is sometimes not welcomed due to misunderstanding of her breed. But this pub did not disappoint.

"Water and treats provided for my pupster, along with a fuss from the staff. Highly recommended."

Lobster Smack, Canvey

Tucked away at the end of Haven Road, this hidden gem is rated among Canvey’s best restaurants. Luckily for owners, it is also very pooch-friendly with its own full menu for dogs - who are allowed in the bar area as well as the pub garden.

The historic pub, which dates back to the 17th century and previously featured as one of the Echo’s pubs of the week, has more than 1,000 Google reviews with dozens praising its dog-friendly atmosphere.

One reviewer commented: "Great family pub to come to enjoy your lunch with family, friends and your four legged friends.

"They have specially designed menus for dogs there too!"

Noak Bridge, Laindon

Last but certainly not least, the Wash Road pub is renowned in the area for being great with dogs.

Four-legged friends are welcomed with open arms, treats and fuss, as they are served food alongside their humans.

One Google reviewer shared: "Went for my birthday, had dinner and some drinks with family.

"Great atmosphere and the staff were very friendly. Love that you can bring dogs here too as we brought ours and they serve food for them too. 

"Better roast dinners than Toby Carvery for sure."