Popped in on our way to Maidstone late afternoon. Sat in the saloon bar. A welcome respite from the M25.

Lunchtime

I have heard many good reports about this pub, and I decided to pay a visit. After reading Andrew's review of December 2006 I decided to change in to collar, tie, jacket, and cords in case I needed to fall off the bar stool, but this did not prove necessary. The railway ticket clerk looked amazed when I purchased a ticket to Sole Street "No ones ever gone there before!" I entered the public bar where all the space was taken up by three gents with baguettes, so I sat in a conservatory area on my own. Personally I found the place a bit twee, but I think it would be better to visit on a wet and windy winter evening when there would be a better chance of meeting interesting locals than on a Sunny Saturday lunchtime.

Last pub on the tour. When Andrew, Jane and I came some years ago, we sat outside and I didn't fully appreciate the loveliness of the interior of this pub. Large building, but with low ceilings, there is a split level between the lounge and public bars. The lounge is non smoking. Pictures of aircraft especially WWII are in evidence. There is a stove and a real fire. Popular with walkers and bikers. The old beer cans in glass display cabinets are worth a look as are the book lined walls. A fabulous pub interior. Pump clips on ceiling show the variety of beers served.

Here with Ian on our tour of North West Kent pubs. This is a great pub. We sat in the Saloon bar which was quiet with people reading or having polite conversation. Through the serving area we could see the Public bar which was very lively. I always think a retired gent in blazer and tie falling off his chair drunk makes a pub!