The best pubs in Kent

The Rose

If you’re looking for a simple, down-to-earth pub in Dartford, the Rose is for you. Located on Overy Street with the River Darent flowing behind it, the pub is highly rated by former guests both for its food and drinks. The family-run pub takes good care of its menu, with the Sunday Roast having a reputation as being one of the best you can get for miles around. It is also famous for its warm and welcoming atmosphere.

Compasses Inn

One of the best country pubs in Kent, the Compasses Inn lies in the rural village of Crundale between Canterbury and Ashford. The pub dates back to the 1420s and as such is bursting with character, original features and tasteful restoration works that help create a wonderful atmosphere, especially when the fire’s roaring. The food is so good that the pub also features in the Michelin Guide! You can visit for a drink and bite to eat whenever you want from our Chilmington development on the edge of Ashford, little more than 10 miles away.

The Poet at Matfield

Another pub featured in the Michelin Guide on account of its exceptional food menu, the Poet at Matfield may look relatively modest from the outside, but truly comes to life once you step inside. Original wooden beams span the ceiling and plunge down to the rustic wooden and tiled floor, while antique furniture and interesting heirlooms add to the arresting ambience. There’s a beer garden to enjoy some summer sunshine while discussing the merits of war poet Siegfried Sassoon, the Matfield native the pub is named after.

The Windmill

There are more exposed beams, crackling fires and opportunities to enjoy some fresh air outside one of the best gastropubs in Kent. The Windmill is on the one hand a traditional pub serving classic British food including hearty Sunday roasts. On the other, there are more refined options on the menu to tempt those with broader tastes. Whichever route you go down at this lovely pub in Hollingbourne, all of the dishes are immaculately presented and can be accompanied by a selection of real ales, beers, wines and even speciality cocktails.

The Pullman

The Pullman is around seven miles west along the coast from Dover, and part of Folkestone’s ever-improving pub scene. Just a stone’s throw from the beach and ideal for a drink after a stroll around the harbour or a longer walk around the Warren, this gastropub is a real sun trap. It will transport you to faraway places with its overhanging palm trees on a sunny day. You can also enjoy your cask ale or glass of wine indoors, with bar stools next to the fire and plenty of tables too. Our Martello Lakes development is only six miles from the Pullman, over in neighbouring Hythe.