Claret &Brew

Claret & Brew is a bottle shop with a small bar on South Street in Manningtree, run by Dan alongside a business partner, Ruth. The shelves hold up to 40 beers and ciders in bottle and can, almost all from small independent producers, alongside wines from ten countries and a whisky selection. Four rotating taps include a permanent non-alcoholic option served from a dedicated 0% fridge, and canned cocktails and hot sauce have since joined the range. The shop doubles as an informal meeting place, drawing Brantham Athletic supporters before Saturday home games and locals after work. Dogs are welcome throughout. It operates independently, with no ties to a brewery or pub company, and functions as both an off-licence and a bar with a handful of stools and tables for drinking in. It opens Wednesday to Sunday afternoons and evenings, closed Monday and Tuesday.