As the days get darker and colder, one of the few silver linings is the re-emergence of the Sunday roast.

Both Southend and Leigh boast ample restaurants and pubs offering Sunday roasts and to make your life easier, we’ve rounded up our favourites:

Locals love the ExchangeLocals love the Exchange (Image: The Exchange) The Exchange, Southend

Our first pick is a highly recommended Southchurch Road venue which has received rave reviews for its great atmosphere...and its Sunday roasts.

The restaurant has a 4.5 rating on its TripAdvisor page, with one reviewer writing: " Excellent Sunday roast. Had a great Sunday roast at the exchange. Good portions very tasty and cooked just as I like it. We will be back”

The Boatyard, Leigh

This popular Old Leigh restaurant is well-known among locals, which is reflected in its 1,872 Tripadvisor reviews.

Out of the reviews, 634 are 'Excellent', with many praising the restaurant's Sunday roasts.

One reviewer said: "Visited for the first time for Sunday lunch & had a fantastic experience. We were early so sat at the bar for a drink, the ambience is lovely and the boat shaped area for drinks is very nice looking and perfect as by the sea.”

The Mews, Southend

Another of our favourite roasts is available at the Mews restaurant and bar. It has earned a reputation for quality service and offering a Sunday roast with all the trimmings.

Out of its 607 reviews, 413 were rated as 'Excellent' on its TripAdvisor page.

One reviewer wrote: “Came for a Sunday roast dinner and wasn’t disappointed. Had the 3 course meal which was amazing. They even amended the pork belly main so we could have it as a starter. All three courses were delicious. Service was impeccable. Cannot fault it in anyway.”

Bellhouse is known for its delicious roastsBellhouse is known for its delicious roasts (Image: Bellhouse) Bellhouse, Leigh

This Leigh pub has plenty of five-star reviews (and a 4.5 rating on Tripadvisor) for its flavoursome Sunday roasts.

One visitor wrote about the Rayleigh Road venue: " Had a lovely roast dinner at the Bellhouse today on the patio. Sun was shining, the food was top draw, and the service better. Libi was very accommodating and helped us through the menu. Will be coming back soon!”