The owners of The Queen Victoria pub in Spital Road, Maldon, are "absolutely delighted" that customers rated it the best place in town for dinner.

Coming out on top with 540 reviews on TripAdvisor, the 180-year-old pub continues to go from strength to strength, even hosting local events. Landlord James Burrell-Cook told Nub News he was "very humbled" by customers' supportive comments.

He said: "We really recognise the importance of both TripAdvisor and Google reviews and respond to all of them. Many of our guests say they found us via those sites.

"If our customers take the time to give feedback, it's very important we listen and make time to respond."

The Queen Victoria is also the second most popular eatery in Maldon overall, after Mrs Salisbury's Famous Tea Rooms. Both businesses have proven extremely popular with the community. However, the Queen Vic's landlords say their success is owed to the pub's "wonderfully talented" 30-person strong team.

Mr Burrell-Cook added: "They genuinely care about our guests and the service they deliver - making sure it's warm and welcoming from the moment our guests step through the door. 

"I am immensely thankful to every single one of them. Each member brings their own personality - and a wealth of knowledge and experience - to The Queen Victoria.

"One thing that sets us apart from other establishments is we are a community pub that offers a varied choice. Our talented chef team, led by Head Chef Dave, has created menu items using local produce and Essex suppliers wherever possible."

The pub supports local charities through regular quiz nights and other fundraising events – and has recently had a defibrillator installed outside. Landlord James and his husband Paul hope to collaborate with even more charities and local sports teams next year.

Read more

• Maldon: Essex cops bust driver with suspected Class A drugs | Local News | News | Maldon Nub News
• In Case You Missed It: Man arrested on suspicion of GBH, Plume Academy's rugby stars, Maldon Festival's new youth programme, and more near you
• Maldon District: Over-55s development refused, new corner shop in Tolleshunt D'Arcy, public path to move for new crematorium, and 9 more planning applications near you