The Hoop's instantly recognisable white wood-fronted building just off Stock's high street shines like a beacon of light whatever the weather.
The 15th century freehouse on the village green screams country pub, offering a warm welcome with authentic pub interiors.
Local reports state the Hoop is the oldest pub in the village and was originally three weavers' cottages, built in 1460 showcasing beams that give it much of its present-day character having been salvaged from warships that docked at Tilbury on the Thames.
Nowadays, fresh and locally sourced produce is key to its food offer, resulting in daily-changing, seasonal menus that have featured the Hoop's Atlantic prawn cocktail, Bolognese arancini and chickpea fritters.
Mains have also included wild Argentinian pink prawn linguine, 'Maureen of Poplar' pie with mash & liquor and its classic toad in the Hoop, which is also available as a veggie option.
When visited by the AA Inspector, they said: "Great cooking at this 15th century weatherboarded pub", praised it for a 'menu of well-executed pub classics with influences that lean mostly toward the French and Italian. Service is relatively formal but still very friendly'.
