FOOD + DRINK
Gastropub Greatness cont... by its beautiful village surroundings and strives to serve all of the moments that bring people together through unwavering hospitality and an honest love of good food.
The Farm House, West Malling elitepubs. com
Situated on the bustling high street of West Malling, the family and pup-friendly Farm House offers a relaxed and homely ambience that works equally well for both laid-back pub lunches and lively gettogethers. With rustic decor, a buzzing cocktail bar, an artisan wood-fired pizza shack and private dining areas fit for any occasion- including stylish Christmas soirées- this locally loved market-town pub is devoted to all things seasonality and celebration. At this time of year, house-crafted cocktails are enriched with winter spice and dishes are as hearty and joyful as they come.
COUNTRY CRAFT & COMFORT
The Milk House, Sissinghurst themilkhouse. co. uk
A former coaching inn steeped in character tucked away in the quaint, leafy village of Sissinghurst, The Milk House comprises a village pub, a bright and airy dining room and comfortable accommodation. At the bar, a fantastic variety of local cask ales, draught beer, cider and Kentish still and sparkling wines are served alongside a delightful seasonal grazing menu featuring warm breads, olives and flavour-packed small plates to enjoy alongside your preferred tipple.
In the dining room, the focus turns to ingredient-led, brilliantly executed menus where creativity and heritage both shine. Pairing with The Milk House’ s wide array of Debonair teas and Rye Bay coffees for those who like a cup of something warm post-feast, desserts here are a triumph- particularly as the new season welcomes the return of classic crumbles, spiced cakes and winter fruits.
The Pepperbox Inn, Harrietsham, nr Maidstone thepepperboxinn. co. uk
A 15th-century country pub boasting beautiful low timbered ceilings and inglenook fireplaces, The Pepperbox Inn has been family-run since 1958, passed through passionate generations, each upholding the pub’ s local legacy for honest cooking and heartfelt hospitality. Situated on one of the highest points overlooking the Weald of Kent, it offers plentiful nearby walks for before or after your meal and stunning views to be enjoyed from the large garden terrace.
Choose between delicious inn creations or unbeatable pub classics, or sample the festive menu, which features dishes such as roasted root vegetable and cranberry nut roast, and brown butter poached hake fillet, followed by decadent desserts like treacle and whiskey tart or a generous cheeseboard with plum chutney.
The Samuel Palmer, Shoreham, nr Sevenoaks thesamuelpalmer. com
A flourishing dining destination where great food, fine wine and artistic heritage are cherished in equal measure, The Samuel Palmer takes its name from the celebrated British landscape painter who lived in Shoreham between 1826 and 1835, during which he created many of his most renowned works. Prints of his paintings today proudly adorn the pub’ s modern interiors, while the menu takes its lead from classic flavour pairings with a contemporary edge, with an emphasis on local, highquality ingredients. The wine list is equally impressive- each bottle individually chosen to be savoured alongside the dishes and some hailing from the pub’ s own 10-acre vineyard that produces award-winning still and sparkling wines.
Red Lion at Baddlesmere, Faversham redlionbadlesmere. com
Kent’ s only fully gluten-free kitchen, the Red Lion at Baddlesmere is a unique haven for those seeking delicious wheat-free fare. Set in a charming village pub, its modern culinary creativity ensures every guest can tuck into delicious dishes handcrafted with the utmost care- prioritising their vast options for all tastes and dietary requirements while never compromising on quality and flavour. Completing the experience, a varied list of beverages, warm service with a smile and an ever-changing roster of dishes continue to delight both first-time visitors and longstanding regulars.
The Poet at Matfield, Matfield, Tonbridge thepoetatmatfield. co. uk
Lovingly prepared by a small team of chefs led by head chef and director Lee Adams, dining at the award-winning Poet is informal yet refined. Named in honour of World War I poet Siegfried Sassoon, who lived in Matfield, the pub nods to his bravery and literary acclaim.
Alongside monthly innovative set menus, à la carte creations and popular Sunday lunch spreads, The Poet holds a weekly steak night, sourcing beef from across Britain and ageing it in-house to bring out exceptional flavour and texture. Premium cuts might include aged Scotch sirloin, smoked hanger steak or wild boar loin, with everything cooked over charcoal and served with seasonal vegetables, potatoes and sauces designed to complement the meats of the day.
THE SAMUEL PALMER
THE KING’ S ARMS
The King’ s Arms, Elham thekingsarmselham. com
A Grade II listed jewel wonderfully restored to its former glory, this Elham Valley gastro-star aims to serve up classic pub food executed to the very highest standard alongside inventive premium dishes that keep taste buds on their toes. Its talkedabout wine list is curated in partnership with Clive Barlow- a renowned Master of Wine- featuring some of the world’ s mostcelebrated bottles including standout Kentish picks. Guests can also opt for a perfectly poured local ale or a crisp craft beer when choosing a glass to cosy up by the fire with, pre or post-supper. For the months ahead, produced-packed winter warmers are at the fore- roasted vegetables, rich soups and lavish seasonal specials too good to be missed.
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