FOOD + DRINK
THE
ULTIMATE
KENT
PUB
CRAWL
The good old British pub is a tradition and an institution . It is something that many other countries try to emulate , but never get quite right ( ask anyone who has ever visited a ‘ tradition English pub ’ whilst on holiday ), and it is a symbol of British culture that is often the very heart of a town or village .
The idea of a public house goes all the way back to the Roman invasion of AD43 , when not only did the Romans bring us their straight roads , calendars and central heating , but they also brought their ‘ tabernae ’ too . Tabernae were really wine shops which were set up alongside the Roman roads as they were built , so that the workers could quench their thirst . Soon enough locals started to use them too , ale was added to the menu , and the word used to describe these places became ‘ tavern ’.
Kent itself has a wide variety of pubs that range from the chic bistro to the village local , and each one has a charm all of its own . But the best way to experience each different type – and each different tipple – is to try the ultimate Kent pub crawl !
1 . The Five Bells Inn , Brabourne
At The Five Bells Inn the owners – and regulars – have a passion for simple things such as friendship , good company , and the culture of Kent ’ s North Downs with its stunning landscapes , beautiful flora and fauna , and excellent local produce . This lovely pub serves beer from Kent ’ s hop gardens , wine from its vineyards and cider from its orchards . Everything at The Five Bells is fresh and local . Set in a gorgeous rural location , this is a place where everyone is welcome . This is a place that has a roaring log fire in the winter and even bedrooms to rest your weary head . www . fivebellsinnbrabourne . com
2 . The Kings Arms , Elham
The Kings Arms in beautiful , idyllic Elham is a warm and welcoming inn , serving fine food , ales and wines from around the globe . When the staff themselves are as much a part of the pub as the décor , the drinks , the food and the atmosphere , you know you ’ ve found a place to come back to time and again . There are stories to be heard here , and history to learn . www . kingsarmselham . com
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