The Lion Inn hotel, Boreham, Chelmsford
With origins dating back to 1495, The Lion Inn Hotel in Chelmsford stands as a proud part of Essex history, a place where heritage and modern comfort meet. Once a humble farmhouse and alehouse, it has evolved into a welcoming boutique hotel in Essex, with 23 boutique bedrooms, a carefully curated bar and pub, and a menu of honest, seasonal award winning food, beautifully prepared. The Lion House Wedding & Event Venue, our dedicated function space, offers an elegant setting for weddings, celebrations, and gatherings of all kinds. Whether you’re joining us for a leisurely pub lunch, an evening with friends, or a restful night’s stay in our of our boutique bedrooms, every experience is delivered with care, attention to detail, and quiet warmth. The recent addition of Beaulieu Park Station Chelmsford, the first station to be built on the Great Eastern main line for over a century means The Lion is accessible from Central London in just 40 minutes.
A Premium Collection Hotel
THE COACHING INN GROUP IS PROUD TO BE NAMED WHICH? HOTEL GROUP OF THE YEAR
We’re proud to share that The Coaching Inn Group has been named Hotel Group of the Year in the large hotel chains category by consumer champion Which? - a major milestone for our business and a powerful endorsement of our strategic focus on accommodation.
This recognition reflects the dedication and passion of our teams across the country, who deliver hospitality from the heart - creating characterful stays and memorable experiences in some of the UK’s most historic market towns.
THE COACHING INN CELEBRATES 30 YEARS OF HOSPITALITY FROM THE HEART
2026 marks 30 years The Coaching Inn Group welcoming its guests with warm fires, generous plates and genuine hospitality. From historic market towns to countryside beauty spots, every inn is shaped by character, comfort and our enduring belief in Hospitality from the Heart.
From May 23rd this year will celebrate our achievement with some exciting additions to the experience, including music from 1996, Golden Ducks, brand No96 Anniversary Bespoke Wines and Gins and many other surprises so watch this space
Wine, Dine & So Much More-Experience the Difference!
A stay at The Lion Inn Hotel Chelmsford offers an experience that appeals to the senses. Dreamy and creative, the unique attention to detail throughout will leave you relaxed and wanting more. with award winning dining and boutique bedrooms, it's your perfect stay in Chelmsford Essex.
Why Stay at The Lion Inn?
Premium boutique bedrooms are designed for comfort and style with the added touches that make the difference and leave you with a lasting impression. Choose from our selection to suit all and just relax and enjoy free parking and award winning dining
Wine & Dine at The Lion Inn
Inspired by Modern British cuisine and crafted with locally sourced ingredients, our menus celebrate bold, confident flavours. Each dish is thoughtfully created by our chefs to offer a restaurant dining experience that is both memorable and distinctive
Meetings, Weddings & Parties
Weddings and events should be firmly established in the calendar. Business or pleasure our private spaces are characterful & varied. Turning the wheels of industry or planning a get together contact us today at the finest wedding & events venue in Essex
The Best Celebrations Happen With Us!
There are times throughout the year that need big celebrations , and a superb meal with friends and family are a must
Chelmsford Summer Inn Style!
Summer’s here, do you wish you were here? It’s all about great food, fresh air and good times. Our gardens, terraces and courtyards are open so gather your people, tuck in, raise a glass and make the most of it
Meet The Dream Team
Simply put, our team is charming, attentive, and effortlessly professional, making your visit splendid from start to finish
Inn Room Features To Make You Smile
Premium Rooms offer tranquility with premium linens, soft pillows and comfortable mattresses. All rooms offer high speed wifi, H2K of Harrogate botanicals, hairdryer, smart TV, Radio, premium teas and coffee in room, premium biscuits and British spring water.
Wish you were here- Staying at The Lion Inn
The Lion Inn is one of the most popular hotels in Chelmsford for business travel accommodation and short breaks in Essex, renowned for its blend of historic charm and modern comfort. With 23 beautifully appointed boutique en-suite hotel rooms, fully equipped with complimentary Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and tea and coffee-making facilities, guests enjoy a relaxing and memorable stay.
Deluxe Suite
You won’t want to leave our luxury stay option, a refuge in the midst of your adventure and our largest room with seating area, little extras and a place you wont want to leave. Accommodates up to two people
Deluxe 4 Poster Room
A little bit of style, a little bit of luxury. The noticeable extras and size make it worth the spoil with a four poster bed to boot. Accommodates up to two people
Superior Double Room
A mid class of room with double bed and no shortage of space or style will leave you with a lasting impression. Accommodates up to two people
Feature Double Room
A little bit of style, a little bit of luxury. The noticeable extras and size make it worth the spoil. Accommodates up to two people
Classic Double Room
Our value standard room, four walls, a bed, and a whole lot of style. The perfect match for short trips will leave you wanting more. Accommodates up to two people
Classic Accessible Double Room
Our classic Accessible rooms have easy access from public areas with accessible bathrooms and all the comforts of our Classic range of rooms with a touch more space. Accommodates up to two people
Wine & Dine at The Lion Inn
The Dining Room at the Lion Inn offers a unique dining experience that blends the best of old and new. Guests can enjoy the finest cuisine prepared with locally sourced ingredients, all served in a relaxed setting that embodies the rich history and timeless elegance of the inn.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a meal out, you can look forward to an unforgettable experience at one of the oldest hotels in Chelmsford, Essex. Whilst we welcome and encourage our walk-in service, we have launched an online booking system to allow a limited number of reservations each day.
The Lion House Grande Hall-Meetings, Weddings & Parties
Ranked among the leading luxury hotels in Essex, the Lion Inn is the perfect place to host your special events. Whether you’re planning a grand wedding, intimate party or corporate meeting, our elegant and versatile event spaces offer a stunning backdrop for any occasion.
Events are held within the Lion House, a purposely built venue featuring a striking Art Deco style and abundant natural light. With a sophisticated design and modern amenities, it provides an exquisite setting for various celebrations and business functions. Our attentive staff will ensure that every detail of your event is expertly executed, from the delectable cuisine to flawless décor. There are few better places to hold your next event than one of the top luxury hotels in Chelmsford, Essex. Enquiries send to lionevents@innmail.co.uk
Gallery Photo Album
The Lion Inn Boreham Essex
A Fascinating History
A former hunting lodge steeped in history, was built in 1740. The hotel has been re-designed with a tasteful blend of contemporary and traditional styles, to complement this grand building and its outstanding location.
The Pride of Chelmsford
Ranked among the leading luxury hotels in Essex, the Lion Inn is the perfect place to host your special events. Whether a grand wedding, intimate party or corporate meeting, our elegant and versatile event spaces offer a stunning backdrop for any occasion.
The Lion Inn People
Wherever you stay with us you'll find our wonderful and extraordinary people. A family orientated culture translates into a heartfelt welcome for all of our guests and visitors and makes us a first choice in Chelmsford.
Don't take our
word for it!
You never forget your first time, and neither did they. Here’s what some of our guest had to say
Upcoming Lion Events
Keep an eye on our website for events happening soon
Courtyard Dining
When the weather permits, our charming courtyard offers the perfect setting for alfresco dining. Located between The Inn and The House, this sun-drenched area is adorned with vibrant flowers and bordered by elegant pleached lime trees, creating an atmosphere that feels almost as if you’re dining in Provence rather than Chelmsford! The Lion Inn’s splendid courtyard area contributes to our reputation as one of the best pub restaurants in Essex, offering a fantastic alfresco dining experience. Dogs are welcome in our Courtyard
Marking Milestones
Parties & Celebrations
Your celebrations deserve more than candles and cake, they deserve style, a private bar and dining space, sparkle and a setting that says “you've arrived so let's celebrate”, so join us for your parties at The Lion Inn Chelmsford
Celebration of Life Events
Our compassionate co-ordinators are on-hand to assist in organising a fitting send-off to your loved one. With private spaces available for between 20 and 150 guests, we will guide you to finding the perfect surrounding for your event
Exclusive Lion offers
Keep an eye on our website for promotions happening soon
Saying “I do” at
The Lion
Weddings at The Lion Inn are a splendid affair, refined, warm and steeped in character. With impeccable service and historic charm you’ll experience tradition with joy and an event tailored to you that gives a most distinguished celebration.
Local Attractions
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Chelmsford Cathedral
The church of St Mary the Virgin in Chelmsford was probably first built along with the town eight hundred years ago. It was rebuilt in the 15th and early 16th centuries, with walls of flint rubble, stone and brick. There is also a tower and spire with a ring of thirteen bells, 12 of which were cast by John Warner and Sons at Cripplegate. The nave was again rebuilt in the early 19th century, after it had partially collapsed. The stained-glass windows were all installed in the 19th and 20th centuries. The south porch was extended in 1953 to mark Anglo-American friendship after the World War II and the many US airmen stationed in Essex. In 1954, the cathedral was additionally dedicated to Saints Peter and Cedd. In 1983, the interior of the cathedral was extensively refurbished, with a new floor, seating, altar, Bishop's throne, font and artwork. In 1994 and 1995 two pipe organs were installed, the first in the nave and the second in the chancel. -
Danbury Country Park
Danbury Country Park is an award-winning and grade II listed park and garden set in the remains of the 13th century Danbury Palace. It is perfect for walking, families with young children and picnics with friends. The park is known for its historic lakes, ancient woodland, wildflower meadows and formal gardens. The park is accessible with well-maintained paths and many seating areas around the lake and across the park. You can take a path around the lakes, through the formal lawn garden and down to the ice house front, or choose the woodland route through dappled shade and ancient trees to the wildflower meadow which was once part of the medieval deer park. On both routes you will see a variety of wildlife including squirrels, ducks and if you are lucky a deer. -
Hylands Estate and Gardens Chelmsford
Hylands House is a Grade II* listed Neo-Classical elegant villa with meticulously restored period rooms from both Georgian and Victorian eras. Originally built as a modest red brick Queen Anne style home in 1730 by local MP Sir John Comyns, the house and parkland was redesigned by famous landscape designer and architect Humphry Repton. Hylands House was rescued from ruin by Chelmsford City Council and restoration was completed in 2007. Steeped in history and set amongst beautiful surroundings Hylands House is a fascinating place to explore. The house is open to the public during our Open Estate Days on the second Sunday of every month -
Promenade Park Maldon Essex
Located on the sloping bank of the river Blackwater, Maldon's Promenade Park has been a popular leisure destination for over a hundred years. Avenues of mature trees and recreation areas lead down to the ornamental lake complete with fountains and resident swans and other birds and wildlife. Smaller children will love the sand pit, which is located at one end of the lake. The pit is adjacent to one of the many refreshment kiosks in the park, so you can relax with a cup of tea and watch the kids enjoying themselves. There is also a seafood bar which is open on weekends and bank holidays.
Showing 4 local attractions near Lion - Boreham
The Burning Questions?
Check in is guaranteed from 03.00pm, Check out is 11.00am
Yes, plenty of on site free parking to the left and rear of the Inn
No, however just a few minutes drive at the Grange Service Area on the A12, there are ultra high speed charging stations, just 0.7 miles
Yes, the village and Beaulieu Park station are within walking distance
Yes wifi is free of charge by registering with your name and e mail
This depends on the room terms booked, we offer room and breakfast and room only. Breakfast can be purchased in advance or on arrival
Yes, we also have non accessible ground floor rooms with shower
Yes, As a much loved venue for celebrations we often hold events at weekends in particular. If you’d prefer a quieter room, please contact the hotel directly and we’d be delighted to assist selecting a quieter room that’s less impacted by any weekend events if available
Tables can be booked Monday to Friday but are limited. Primarily we operate a walk in table system, so please just come along if the on line reservations are unavailable. Mother's Day and Christmas Day are reservations only. Weekends are walk in dining.
Yes, we have a lovely private dining space within the Lion Inn which is ideal for celebrations, meetings and events. We can accommodate a maximum of 24 persons.
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Gift Vouchers
The Art of Giving can be experienced with our gift vouchers and cards
Contact & Location
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