Friern Manor - Basildon

Having missed last year, for obvious reasons, it was nice to go back there again this year. Little has changed during the odd years we have been going there. Th... read more Having missed last year, for obvious reasons, it was nice to go back there again this year. Little has changed during the odd years we have been going there. This year, there was no covid passport checking, mask wearing or social distancing. But I...am sure that that will now change. There were plenty of fellow party goers when we arrived, and there were the usual pre-dinner drinks. The dinner was varied: my prawn cocktail starter was pleasant but too cold, the turkey was very dry but the vegetables were nice, as was the Christmas Pudding. The pigs in blankets were too salty. The service was efficient. One of my bugbears concerns the drinks. Obviously the management doesn't want everyone to get completely wasted, but the beer is so weak and the spirit measures so measly probably less than in pubs that you would have to drink copious amounts of it even to get a little bit tipsy! The disco music was rubbish. The DJ started with some Christmas favourites, but then it descended into, well, I don't know what. I have never understood the appeal of The Killer's Mr.Brightside, All in all, it wasn't a bad night out. Reasonable value at a head. However, I feel that they could increase the quality of the food and drink if they raised the price a little.

The restaurant staff were professional, friendly, and accommodating. The venue was fabulous and became even more beautiful as the day went on. I can't wait to g... read more The restaurant staff were professional, friendly, and accommodating. The venue was fabulous and became even more beautiful as the day went on. I can't wait to go back for our anniversary! The prices were very reasonable and the portions were very generous for both the meal and the BBQ. Visiting this restaurant is a must - you will love the place and the people. Charis, Andrew, Peter, and the entire waiting staff are a credit to the venue and its owners.

Fabulous place attended a evening wedding her last week we had the BBQ in the evening very smart and lovely grounds such nice young friendly staff – think they... read more Fabulous place attended a evening wedding her last week we had the BBQ in the evening very smart and lovely grounds such nice young friendly staff – think they had just reopened after covid lockdown but were so helpful and sweet in their uniforms

I recently visited a high time here and was a full-day guest. the layout of the place was beautiful. service was excellent. to go to so far as to call me “Sir”... read more I recently visited a high time here and was a full-day guest. the layout of the place was beautiful. service was excellent. to go to so far as to call me “Sir” and with full silver service experience was none. Many paintings would come the employees round. to ask if we want more wein, all employees were also happy to answer and welcome us to professional and courteous wise. in any case, my high time here would look in potential.

From our first meeting to our special day, all staff members were amazing in ensuring that every detail was taken care of, even during the pandemic without any... read more From our first meeting to our special day, all staff members were amazing in ensuring that every detail was taken care of, even during the pandemic without any issues. Their service and hospitality on the day were outstanding. Our special day could not have been any better. A special place with special people.