The Windmill

The story

The Windmill, Chatham Green – Modern Cuisine in a Michelin-Recommended Essex Pub

A Pub at Heart

Tucked into the Essex countryside near Chelmsford, The Windmill at Chatham Green is a former windmill that has been reimagined as a welcoming pub and restaurant. It retains the spirit of a traditional pub, with a dedicated bar area, a terrace for outdoor seating, and a relaxed atmosphere that suits everything from a quick drink and a snack to a full evening out. The setting is rural, close to the Essex Walkway, and the building’s character gives it a quiet charm.

Seasonal and Sustainable

The kitchen focuses on modern cuisine, keeping the menu short and changing it often to reflect what is in season and what can be sourced sustainably. Ingredients come from local producers and further afield, chosen for their quality. The result is a menu that feels both grounded and refined. Sunday roasts are a highlight, with aged beef sirloin, lamb, or chicken served with all the trimmings, while lighter options such as stone bass appear regularly. Tasting menus of five or eight courses offer a broader exploration of the kitchen’s approach, often paired with wines.

The Dining Experience

Guests consistently praise the warmth of the welcome and the attentiveness of the service. One reviewer described the food as “Michelin quality without the Michelin price tag” – a sentiment echoed by many. The Michelin guide awarded The Windmill its “Recommended” status in 2026, recognising the consistency and ambition of the cooking. Dishes such as citrus-cured salmon with goat cheese mousse, dark chocolate cremeux with pistachio financier, and the carefully prepared roasts appear frequently in guest feedback. The eight-course taster menu, in particular, has drawn strong praise for its variety and presentation.

Private Dining and More

A private dining room, the Millers Room, is available for celebrations and larger groups. The Windmill also offers a few rooms for overnight stays, making it a destination for those who want to linger. Whether you come for a Sunday lunch, a tasting menu, or simply a drink on the terrace, the experience is consistently described as memorable – and well worth the journey into the Essex countryside.