Owl’s Hill Tearoom — Restaurant in Braintree

Three of us went here this morning around 9am as we usually do most Fridays and ordered coffee and breakfast. As it was early the tearoom was empty but we were asked upon arrival if we could sit on a table for three people instead of one for four as more people might be coming in later.. We thought fair enough. By midday a few other people had arrived including a group of 3 women who guess what... occupied the table for 4 that we were originally asked not to sit at upon arrival. 3 rounds of coffee each later, plus food for each of us - we were approached by the lady serving. She asked: "How much longer do you think you will be? As we have a bigger group of people arriving who need the table.." This made us quite uncomfortable and we felt rushed to finish our coffees and/or leave. We had intended to stay for lunch and more drinks but with this sort of attitude you obviously don't need the income or our custom so good luck with the future of your business. It is a shame as we were regular local customers but I think we shall be taking our custom elsewhere in future. We did voice our feelings before leaving and excuse the pun we don't think much of a 'hoot' was given. In answer to the below response from owner: We were a table of 3 with a further person to arrive later meaning 4 in total. You tried to move our table of 4 onto a table of 2 without asking. It is utterly ridiculous to be turning away any custom regardless of how many people you would like to cram in to a small space - especially repeat customers. As damaging as it may be it is the truth.Your loss not ours at the...

Such a Lovely Spot – We’re Lucky to Have Owls Hill Tearoom in Terling

Owls Hill Tearoom is one of those places that just makes you feel good as soon as you walk through the door. It’s warm, welcoming, and has such a relaxed vibe — you can tell straight away it’s run with care and a real love for what they do.

The selection of cakes is amazing. Honestly, every time we go, there’s something new and delicious to try. Whether you’re into rich chocolatey treats or something a bit lighter and fruity, they’ve got it covered. Everything always tastes so fresh and homemade — it’s hard not to want a second slice!

The coffee is just as good — really tasty, smooth and made properly. Whether you’re into a strong espresso or just want a comforting flat white, they know what they’re doing. It pairs perfectly with the cakes, of course.

One of our favourite things about this place is the outdoor seating area. On a sunny day, it’s just lovely to sit outside, sip your coffee, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. It’s tucked away enough to feel like a little escape, but right in the heart of the village.

And the staff? So friendly and down to earth. There’s always a smile and a warm welcome, and it never feels rushed or impersonal. It’s the kind of place where you feel like a regular, even if it’s your first time.

We really do feel lucky to have something like this in Terling. Independent places like Owls Hill bring so much character and charm to the village. If you haven’t been yet, definitely give it a go — you won’t be...

Without doubt the most expensive‘ploughman’s’ I’ve ever had - & the tiniest. It was described as a Ploughmans picnic. See pic of menu. cheese scone-cheese -ham -side salad- chutney and pickles. It actually comprised of : three silverskin onions -two slices of cucumber -one and a half tiny cherry tomatoes -two thin slices of mediocre cheddar -a tiny side of coleslaw and an undercooked bad tasting scone. Oh and a bit of chutney. £7.75 - and a ‘vegetarian’ ploughmans for 75p less. It was actually the same as the first without the ham. £7.00. With a tea and a coffee? £19.00. It honestly was only worth a fiver - if that. Maybe because it was half an hour before closing they were short on ingredients? Needless to say we will NEVER return. I suggest you give it a miss...