"The rooms were lovely, very well decorated, and the bed really comfortable."
Stephanie from United Kingdom
read full review
"Good evening meal and terrific real ales. 5 in all all served from the barrel"
Peter from United Kingdom
read full review
"Accommodation was very good and spotlessly clean"
Deborah from United Kingdom
read full review
"Lovely quiet rooms, comfortable beds, friendly staff, tasty food in the bar."
Kathryn from United Kingdom
read full review
"The welcoming and service from the bar staff was spot on. So helpful."
gunner10469 from United Kingdom
read full review
4-star family-friendly hotel in Chelmsford with award-winning accommodations
Location
The Compasses offers immediate access to the scenic Chelmer and Blackwater Navigation trail, ideal for walking and cycling. Located just minutes from the town center of Chelmsford, guests are close to local shops and dining. The hotel also provides a convenient base for exploring nearby attractions such as Hylands House and the RHS Gardens.
Dining
The Compasses features an on-site restaurant that provides a diverse menu, with a focus on using locally sourced ingredients. Guests can enjoy a selection of fine wines and seasonal specials, crafted to enhance the dining experience. The outdoor terrace allows for al fresco dining, perfect for warmer months.
Rooms
The hotel offers a variety of room types, including family rooms equipped with necessary amenities for children. Each room features luxurious bedding and modern facilities. Many rooms also include views of the surrounding countryside.
Wellness
The Compasses includes wellness options, such as a fully equipped gym for guests to maintain their fitness routines. There are also outdoor spaces that promote relaxation and leisure. Fitness classes are available upon request, catering to different levels of experience.
Family Amenities
The hotel prioritizes family needs, offering children's menus and play areas to keep young guests entertained. Special family packages are available, including accommodation and meal deals. The surrounding outdoor space encourages adventure and exploration for children.
Highlights
Location: Immediate access to scenic walking and cycling trails
Dining: On-site restaurant with locally sourced ingredients
Rooms: Family rooms equipped for children
Wellness: Fully equipped gym available for guests
“The inn unfolds as a charming country pub, its heart beating with genuinely friendly staff and a well-curated selection of real ales. Guests find comfortable, spacious rooms attached, offering a quiet respite after enjoying hearty, reasonably priced fare. It strikes a fine balance, feeling both established and welcoming, making it a place you'd readily return to.”
James DavidEditor-in-Chief at Ukessex
Select your room type
The Compasses offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
Standard Twin Room
2 persons
12 m²
2 Single beds
Heating
Shower
room details
Superior Double or Twin Room
2 persons
13 m²
1 King-size bed
Heating
Shower
room details
Double or Twin Room Disability Access
2 persons
24 m²
1 King-size bed
Heating
Shower
room details
Show all rooms
Price and Room Availability Calendar
Check availability and prices for your dates now!
Facilities
The Compasses offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences
Facilities: Perfect
9.2/10Review score
General
No smoking on site
Parking
Pets allowed
Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
Wheelchair access
Security
Smoke detectors
Fire extinguishers
Key access
Sports & Fitness
Hiking
Cycling
Darts
Guest Parking
Public parking is possible on site for free.
Services
Pet amenities available
Housekeeping
Welcome drink
Dining
Restaurant
Bar/ Lounge area
Special diet menus
Children
Cots
Board games
Children's menu
Facilities for people with disabilities
Toilet for disabled
Bathroom for disabled
Spa & Leisure
Live entertainment
Sun terrace
Garden area
Room features
Free Wi-Fi in rooms
Heating
Terrace
Garden furniture
Tea and coffee facilities
Ironing facilities
Bathroom
Sink
Self-catering
Electric kettle
Media
Flat-screen TV
Room decor
Parquet floor
Show more
Dining Onsite
At The Compasses, onsite dining celebrates local flavors in a warm and inviting atmosphere. Guests can indulge in hearty meals from a traditional restaurant and unwind with refreshing beverages at cozy bars, making it a delightful choice for families and travelers alike.
Restaurant #1
Traditional local cuisine
Ambiance
Family-friendly setting with a cozy atmosphere, perfect for gathering with loved ones or enjoying food in a relaxed environment.
Key Offerings
Experience a variety of meal options, including a Continental and cooked breakfast, vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free selections. Join for lunch and dinner, and don't miss the local real ales available at the bar.
Reservation
Not needed
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
The Compasses Location
The Compasses, Littley Green, Chelmsford,
Map view
City landmarks
Landmark
Leez Priory Wedding Venue
1.86 km
Landmark
The Old Brewery
1.27 km
Landmark
Leez Priory
1.93 km
Church
Church Of St John The Evangelist
2.07 km
Landmark
Ford End village sign
2.16 km
Landmark
Windmill Motor Inn
2.54 km
Landmark
Great Leighs Free Church
3.12 km
Church
Parish Church
3.74 km
Landmark
Langleys
3.57 km
Church
Black Chapel
3.68 km
Church
United Reformed Chapel
3.83 km
Church
Church Of The Holy Cross
3.86 km
Landmark
Crix Green Mission
3.8 km
Landmark
Great Waltham war memorial
3.8 km
Landmark
Felstar Vineyard and Brewery
3.86 km
Event hall
Royal British Legion
3.88 km
Landmark
Felsted School Chapel
3.9 km
Landmark
Village Hall
3.92 km
Landmark
Pleshey Castle
4.33 km
Event hall
Great Waltham Village Hall
3.94 km
Church
Church Of St Mary The Virgin
4.27 km
Landmark
Little Waltham United Reform Church
4.44 km
Landmark
Little Waltham War Memorial
4.58 km
Church
Church Of Holy Trinity
4.6 km
Landmark
Little Waltham Village sign
4.61 km
Landmark
Church of St Martin
4.72 km
Landmark
Sholdo Hall
4.9 km
Church
St Mary The Virgin Great Dunmow
4.91 km
Museum
Friends of Flitch Way railway carriage museum
5.83 km
Nearby
4 Mill Ln
The Old Brewery
1.08 km
Restaurants
The Compasses Inn
0 m
Chelmsford Great Waltham
Explore Chelmsford
Local Experiences Around The Compasses
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Leez Priory
25 minutes' walk
Leez Priory offers stunning Tudor architecture and lush gardens, ideal for photos or a peaceful stroll.
The Old Brewery
16 minutes' walk
An iconic local pub, The Old Brewery features crafted beers and a charming atmosphere, perfect for a casual outing.
Hiking at Pleshey Castle
10 minutes' drive
A scenic hike at Pleshey Castle features beautiful views and historical ruins, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
Spa Day at Windmill Motor Inn
10 minutes' drive
Relaxation awaits at the Windmill Motor Inn's spa, offering soothing treatments and a serene environment.
The Compasses Inn
1 minute walking
The Compasses Inn serves hearty British fare with a cozy atmosphere, featuring local ingredients and seasonal specials.
Windmill Motor Inn
10 minutes' drive
A relaxed dining experience, featuring classic dishes, great service, and a welcoming atmosphere for families.
Live Music at The Old Brewery
16 minutes' walk
Weekly live music events add a vibrant touch at The Old Brewery, making it a local favorite for nightlife.
Family Fun at Friends of Flitch Way Museum
15 minutes' drive
A charming railway carriage museum with exhibits appealing to all ages, ideal for family-friendly outings.
Getting around
City Centre
Chelmsford 16 min · 10.3 km
Airports
London Stansted (STN) 32 min · 21.3 km
London Southend (SEN) 67 min · 44.2 km
Train
Chelmsford Train Station 16 min · 10.2 km
Chelmsford Railway Station 16 min · 10.2 km
Bus
Bus stop 16 min · 1.3 km
Want to see Exclusive Early Booking Rate?
Get exclusive rates right now!
Check Rates
Property information and rules
Check-in
from 14:00-22:00
Check-out
from 07:00-10:00
Guest Parking
Public parking is possible on site for free.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in the hotel rooms for free.
Breakfast
You can start your day with a full breakfast, which costs GBP 13.95 per person.
Children & extra beds
There are no cots provided in a room.
Pets
Pets are allowed on request.
Reviews and Ratings
Feedback about The Compasses from previous guests about their experience.
Cleanliness
9.4/10
Comfort
9.4/10
Facilities
9.2/10
Free Wi-Fi
9.0/10
Location
9.1/10
Staff
9.4/10
Value for money
9.1/10
Pros
Friendly staff
Quiet rooms
Good food
Authentic character
Cons
Thin walls
Inconsistent service
Maintenance issues
Guest reviews
based on 407 reviews
9.1/10
No reviews yet on our siteUnfortunately, our guests have not yet left any reviews for this hotel, but you can read reviews from Booking.com.