Colchester's first micropub, The Magnet occupies a corner of the former Norfolk pub on North Station Road, a short walk from the mainline station. It opened in 2019 and remains fully independent, tied to no brewery, pub company or distributor. Three handpumps pour regularly changing cask ales, with an emphasis on Essex and East Anglian producers, alongside real cider, keg lines, bottles, cans, spirits and hot drinks. The single room follows the micropub template: no fruit machines or television, conversation over background noise, and a small sheltered courtyard for warmer days. Dogs are welcome and the beer list turns over quickly enough to reward repeat visits. Opening runs Tuesday through Sunday, with core afternoon and evening sessions. It is a straightforward drinking house built around cask beer and the people who order it.
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