FOOD + DRINK
KENT ' S BEST BEER STOPS
WITH HOPS ROOTED SO FIRMLY IN BOTH KENT ’ S RICH SOIL AND HISTORY , IT COMES AS NO SURPRISE THAT THE GARDEN OF ENGLAND HAS ALSO SPROUTED A VAST ARRAY OF PLACES IN WHICH TO ENJOY THE COUNTY ’ S BEER AND ALES .
From historic pubs with crooked beams and cosy fireplaces that date back to the times of the monks who first made beer and wine here , to the newfound micropubs made up of singular rooms which celebrate the best of artisan craft beers , Kent is sure to have a beer stop to suit everyone . No matter what your taste in ale might be , you are sure to enjoy the best of Kent ’ s coast and countryside at one of Kent ’ s pubs with a view , or enjoy sharing in the knowledge of the county ’ s brewers and the history of brewing at one of Kent ’ s renowned brewery tours .
KENT ’ S BEST BREWERY TOURS AND BREWERS low and behold , one year later , we have it . Constellation Brewery is now a reality - fully equipped with flowing beer .”
Head brewer Rob gained 10 years ’ experience as head brewer at another great Kentish brewery , whereas Barry ’ s experience lies in technical services and refrigeration . The pair have now combined their expertise , setting themselves up with a 30 BBL brewery , which allows them to brew up to 8,500 pints per brew . Guests can now sample these beers in their taproom which has indoor and outdoor seating as well as accompanying Greek food from Filakia ( www . instagram . com / filakiagreekstreetfood ).
Constellation Brewery , Tonbridge ( www . constellationbrewery . co . uk )
Based in the market town of Tonbridge , just off the River Medway , explore this new and exciting brewery looking to bring some ‘ great tasting beers from the stars ’. With six core products available all year round alongside regular seasonals that will arrive as the sun passes through the constellations , enjoy craft beers and ales available in can , mini keg , kegs and casks each named after the different star constellations . After spending the day at The Great British Beer Festival in 2021 , founders Rob and Barry decided to open their own brewery . “ We were both a bit intoxicated ,” laughs Barry . “ Rob just said ‘ let ’ s open our own brewery !’ and
NorthDown Brewery , Margate ( www . northdownbrewery . com )
Founded in 2018 by husband and wife duo Jonny and Katie Spanjar who were drawn to Margate for its coastal vibes , embracing community and bountiful history , NorthDown Brewery Taproom provides the opportunity for you to try their artisan beers brewed by Margate ’ s iconic British beach . Recent industry gongs for their two most loved beers include the Taste of Kent Awards taking home Best Kent Beer 2020 for Pale Ale Mary pale ale and winning praise from the cask ale aficionados CAMRA with a medal for Merry Margate Golden Session Ale in the Kent CAMRA festival 2019 .
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