insideKENT Magazine Issue 134 - June 2023 | Seite 116

KENT ’ S BEST
FOOD + DRINK
KENT ’ S BEST

BEER STOPS

THERE ’ S NO BETTER TIME THAN THE GLORIOUS BRITISH SUMMER FOR SIPPING BEERS AND ALES IN ONE OF KENT ’ S SUNNY PUB GARDENS . GET READY TO SOAK UP PICTURESQUE SCENES , WARM WEATHER AND THE BEST BEER THE UK HAS TO OFFER .
PIER FIVE
The story of brewing in Kent is typical of the story of brewing throughout Britain , with one notable exception : it was in Kent that hops were first cultivated for mainstream brewing use on these islands . Over 600 years ago , it was at Westbere just outside Canterbury where they were first grown , and since then this county has been at centre of the British hop industry , which remains to this day both an important part of Kent ’ s history and its status in British brewing . With hops and brewing comes beer and pubs , and Kent is home to some of the UK ’ s very best . From big seaside pubs with ocean views to traditional village pubs complete with centuries of character , suntrap gardens and skittles , Kent is full of character when it comes to beer stops . Here are just some of insideKENT ’ s favourites .
PUBS ON THE WATER
The Minnis Bay
Overlooking the golden sands and blue sea of Thanet , The Minnis Bay Bar and Brasserie is a relaxed and stylish pub offering truly outstanding views , great food and an extensive drinks list . Enjoy a glass of cool and refreshing Kentish beer on the terrace while watching the sun sink into the sea . Get those taste buds tingling with your favourite pub dishes or indulge in some traditional seaside fun with an ice cream from their kiosk . A great pub for bringing wellbehaved canine friends to before or after a walk on the beach .
Pier Five , Chatham
Enjoy a pint in historical surrounds at Chatham Maritime at the chic St Mary ’ s Island where you ’ ll find Pier Five , a contemporary waterside bar and kitchen with an international outlook . As well as revelling in crafted ales , spirits and cocktails , you can also sip on the freshest artisan coffees in town while looking out onto the River Medway . The kitchen also packs a punch with their acclaimed ovenbaked , hand-stretched pizzas , flamegrilled chicken , and superfood salads .
The Wharf , Dartford
Situated on pretty Cotton Lake , The Wharf is a destination in itself , or perfect for a relaxed bite to eat after a busy day shopping at the nearby Bluewater . The Wharf serves fine food and drink alongside an array of picturesque views .
Enjoy a great range of specially selected wines and Kentish cask ales , and be sure to grab a seat on the decking overlooking the water . This pub is not only known for its ideal location but also for its famous Sunday carvery with all the trimmings .
The Boathouse Pub and Restaurant , Yalding
Just a few minutes from the quaint village of Yalding , you ’ ll find the delightful Boathouse Pub and Restaurant which sits on the waterside of the River Medway . Its alfresco dining area and restaurant offer everything from a quick bite to eat to a hearty family meal . The pub is also dog friendly so you can bring your trusty four-legged friend along - the best company in which to enjoy gorgeous views and refreshing Kentish beers and ales .
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