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The Axe and Compasses in Aythorpe Roding, Essex, is a 17th Century traditional country pub serving freshly cooked food and serving a wide selection of real ales, ciders and lagers along with a good selection of wines, including fourteen wines by the glass.

Whilst many know The Axe for our great food, (we serve the best traditional Sunday Roast around!), we also host regular Quiz nights, Texas Hold'Em competitions and Music Nights, so there's plenty to keep everyone entertained!

The Axe and Compasses is situated only thirteen miles from Stansted Airport and Junction 8 of the M11. Close to Chelmsford and a hair's breadth from Great Dunmow we offer a beautiful unspoilt countryside location where you can escape the hustle and bustle of the day.

AWARD WINNING - We can’t believe we’ve done it again!

The Axe and Compasses has won the "BEST TRADITIONAL PUB" category in the Essex Food and Drink Awards FOR THE SECOND YEAR RUNNING! We are all very proud of this amazing achievement and wish to thank our customers, colleagues and friends for helping make this happen. We are also pleased to feature in THE GOOD PUB GUIDE, THE MICHELIN EATING OUT IN PUB GUIDE & THE AA GOOD PUB GUIDE for 2010.

David says “Our vision for the Axe and Compasses is a return to what we call a ‘proper’ pub which hs seen a resurrection of all things quintessentially British about pubs. This philosophy is reflected in every aspect of the Axe and Compasses; from food to décor to community activities.”

"Recapturing that nostalgic pub experience"

David, a self taught chef, cooks with passion and consummate skill, qualities which have been instrumental in the success of previous ventures. The couple’s professional past has seen them gain entries and reviews in publications such as the AA Guide, Michelin Pub Guide and the Guardian.

 At the Axe and Compasses customers are reacquainted with old favourites to be enjoyed, whilst gazing over unspoilt views of the English countryside. Our  menu choices consist of classic items such as New Season Rack of Lamb with Spring Vegetables and Minted Jersey Royals followed by Treacle and Pecan Tart served with Homemade Brown Bread Ice Cream along with a few dishes with a more unique twist!!

Ales direct from the cask,  feature with barrels behind the bar playing host to a vigorous guest beer policy offering seasonal ales from small regional and craft brewers.  

For David and Sheila Hunt, recapturing this nostalgic pub experience extends past the bricks and mortar into the sense of community. At the Axe and Compasses we want to create this feeling in every person through the door whether coming from Aythorpe Roding or Aberdeen. We want customers to be well fed, feel well valued and to be looking forward to returning.