When there's a chill in the air and the first frost of the year is on the ground, there's nothing like some hearty fayre, a local tipple and a local pub’s cosy corner to help you get toasty. Whether it's a pub with a roaring fire, gastronomic delights or windswept sea views you're looking for, our top Kentish pubs all offer a retreat from the cold and a refreshing local pint or two! And this year, kick off the season with an unforgettable and unmissable fine dining experience at Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve. Ready to dive in? Let's go...
Folkestone & Hythe
An evening of fine dining at Port Lympne
Book in for an exclusive gourmet dinner event at Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve on 26th September. Tuck in as they roll out a delicious 4-course menu alongside some of Kent’s other finest kitchens from The Dog at Wingham and Michelin-starred Hide & Fox. Pair that with award-winning English sparkling wine producer, Gusbourne, and you’ve got yourself the food event of the year. Smoked chalk stream trout, Jerusalem artichoke with lemon verbena beurre, and Manjari chocolate mousse are just some of the dishes you can expect to find on this carefully curated menu. Get a taste of Kent as you prepare for your evening in Port Lympne’s stunning Orangery, filled with unforgettable flavours and fine dining at its best.
The Woolpack Inn, Romney Marsh
Dating from 1410, The Woolpack Inn on Romney Marsh, was once the haunt of smugglers and retains many of its original features such as wattle-and-daub walls and a low, beamed ceiling. Located in great walking country, The Woolpack is a perfect place to stop and satisfy the thirst and appetite during a day out in the country. Excellent traditional pub food is served with all fish and game locally sourced.
Swale
The Maypole Inn
Set in the rural village of Borden, The Maypole Inn is a delightful 18th Century historic village pub with everything you could need for those blustery afternoons. Step inside and you’ll find a restaurant with a menu to fill your belly and put a smile on your face, sat by one of the three log burner fireplaces, and enjoying the welcoming atmosphere. We’ll cheers to that!
The Sun Inn, Faversham
Escape from the everyday to one of the most popular pubs in historic Faversham. With a tale to tell that dates back to the 14th century, The Sun Inn bursts full of history, charm and character. Explore this traditional Kentish pub brimming with intriguing original features – indulging the nostalgic with its inglenook fireplaces and oak beams. Just a short stroll from the Shepherd Neame Brewery, The Sun Inn naturally serves distinctive Kentish cask ales in peak condition. It’s also a great place to eat and even stay - with twelve comfortable and characterful bedrooms providing stylish accommodation.
The Dove, Faversham
Known for its award winning menu The Dove is exactly the place you’d want to be if you’re looking for a delightful dining experience. Whether you need a change of scenery from the spectacular sights of Canterbury or have finished a day surrounded by oysters in the Whitstable Harbour, The Dove is a short 15 minute drive from both so it’s the perfect place to unwind after a busy day and to experience a taste of their finest English and international wines.
The Ferry House Inn, Leysdown-on-Sea
Looking for a delicious meal crafted using locally sourced ingredients? Well, it doesn't get more local than their back garden! The Ferry House Inn uses home-grown produce which flavours their menu with tasty dishes, to warm you up in those cooler months. With an AA Rosette for culinary excellence and two ‘Taste of Kent’ awards, this 16th century restaurant provides all you need when looking for a cosy dining experience.
Maidstone
The Windmill, Hollingbourne
For any couples seeking a romantic Christmas escape, The Windmill at Hollingbourne is the place for you. In the charming Kent countryside, this 17th-century inn exudes traditional charm with its low-beamed ceilings, roaring open fires, and quaint, rustic decor. With a menu filled with locally sourced ingredients, accompanied by a fine selection of wines and ales, now’s the time to bask in Kentish produce, whilst relaxing in intimate settings and enchanting surroundings.
The Pepper Box Inn, Harrietsham
A short distance from Leeds Castle on the Greensand Way and the South Eastern Toll Ride, the Pepper Box is in an ideal place to stop and refresh for those out on a winter walk or ride. The Pepper Box Inn is a traditional pub in the heart of the Kent countryside which has been run by the same family since 1958. Customers can nestle in to the pub’s comfortable leather sofas next to large inglenook fireplaces in the winter months. It is renowned for its delicious á la carte restaurant menu, particularly the game dishes.
The Blackhorse Inn, Thurnham
Decorated with beams and open fires the family run Blackhorse Inn pub is the perfect base for those visitors exploring the historic Kentish countryside and landmarks. With meat delivered by the local butcher, wine from the local vineyards and fresh food prepared by their talented chefs, The Blackhorse Inn is sure to deliver that 5 star experience.
The Potting Shed, Langley
If you’re looking for an unforgettable countryside retreat, you’re looking in the right place. Situated in Langley, only a 15 minute drive from Leeds Castle, The Potting Shed aims to bring the outside in by creating a rustic, country feel. This Scandinavian inspired pub includes 6 distinctive, quirky, eco living bedrooms and an open plan restaurant, with a large outdoor area.
Sevenoaks
King Henry VIII, Edenbridge
A truly historic English pub, with dramatic Tudor chimney stacks, oak beams, open fires and panelled bars – which have all been restored using traditional Tudor craftsmanship. There's been a pub on this site since 1597, but the current King Henry VIII building dates from 1647. Situated opposite the entrance to Hever Castle, where Anne Boleyn spent her early years, this half-timbered and peg-tiled pub is a real gem. In winter, it boasts roaring fires.
The Restoration, Sevenoaks
Give your arms a break from all of those shopping bags and head to The Restoration in Sevenoaks High Street, where you can enjoy a warm fire with a freshly prepared meal and one of their local ales. Dating back to 1616, this pub manages to stay stylish but also remain traditional, with their large seating area being extremely popular with customers. And for those early risers; breakfast is served! Fancy smashed avocado on toast? Or even some spicy beans and eggs? Then you'd better head down to the Restoration where you have all this offered to you and more.
Canterbury
The Abode, Canterbury
Sat by the fireplace, gazing out at passersby wrapped up warm, The Abode ticks our “cosy” box, most definitely. Wander the cobbled streets of Canterbury, and you’ll come across this 4-star hotel, where a relaxing brasserie bar awaits inside. Here, you can treat your palette with some classic cocktails, festive fizz, or even an afternoon tea – it doesn’t get much more autumnal than that! Plus, with up to 20% off on your overnight stay, there’s plenty of reasons why a visit to The Abode this season just makes sense.
The Griffin's Head, Chillenden
This picturesque country pub offers real ales, good food and great views of the Kentish countryside. It is popular during the winter for its two blazing log fires roaring in inglenook fireplaces. Built as a farmhouse in 1405, during the reign of Edward I, The Griffin’s Head building remained a farm until 1766 when it became fully licensed, serving travellers on the main Canterbury to Deal road.
The Millers Arms, Canterbury
Are you looking for somewhere that isn’t too far away from the heart of Canterbury? Then The Millers Arms is the place to go, being just walking distance from some of Canterbury’s best tourist attractions. With fine ales and a delicious menu, one of Canterbury’s top-rated pubs offers superb service while you relax and unwind. This pub offers stylish, modern decor with an inglenook fireplace and a stunning courtyard garden for you to enjoy a fresh pint and maybe even a Sunday roast, before staying the night in their cosy accommodation.
White Hart Inn, Canterbury
The hidden gem of Canterbury. The White Hart Inn is a dog friendly, traditional pub serving up some of the best pub classics, complemented by a variety of drinks including Canterbury’s largest wine selection. The pub is blessed with a large outdoor seating area to drink and dine but don’t worry there is also a warm and cosy interior for those winter days.
Thomas Becket, Canterbury
Oh, a traditional family pub. It’s somewhere we all love to go on a Sunday for a hearty roast, or when you’re craving a pub classic meal, and let’s not pretend you don’t know what you’re ordering. We know you might browse the menu for a minute or two but really, you’ll go with your favourite go-to dish – we all do it! So whether you’re popping in for a light lunch, a proper pub dinner, or maybe a drink (or two) you can guarantee the Thomas Becket pub will be ready to welcome you and the whole family for a wonderful experience.
Tunbridge Wells
The Peacock Inn, Goudhurst
A traditional family-run 14th-century country pub nestled in the Kentish countryside near Goudhurst, The Peacock Inn offers a menu of warming locally-sourced fresh food, beer and wine. Settle down by the pub’s open fire after a walk through this picturesque hill village in the High Weald area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
The George Hotel & Brasserie, Cranbrook
Halfway between Maidstone and Hastings, Cranbrook is a small town in the middle of the High Weald, at the very heart of Kent. The George Hotel is one of the town’s landmark buildings dating back to 13th century. The perfect place to stop for a pint or a plateful, with Kentish ales at the bar and seasonal, local produce on the menu. It’s also a great place to bed down for the night, with rooms available above the bar and restaurant.
The Guinea, Royal Tunbridge Wells
In the heart of Royal Tunbridge Wells The Guinea has that festive feel with a highly recommended Christmas dinner. You can relax in the comfort of their luxury arm chairs and warm up in front of the blazing log fires. Whether you fancy a three course meal with locally sourced traditional foods or a quick stop off drink at the bar, this pub caters for all with its warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Thanet
The George and Heart, Margate
Nestled in one of our favourite seaside spots, this Grade II listed building in Margate's Old Town has most certainly earned its place on our cosy pubs list. At The George and Heart, you'll have everything you could ask for - from a warming meal (did somebody say full roast on a Sunday?) to a festive drink, from pub quizzes to live music, it's all right here. Plus, with rooms to rest your head, your autumnal day out by the sea can be topped off with an overnight stay for ultimate R&R.
The Botany Bay Hotel, Broadstairs
If it’s a blustery walk or a brooding sea view you're after, head to The Botany Bay Hotel in Broadstairs. Situated on the magnificent clifftop, the hotel overlooks one of Britain’s most spectacular beaches with 200 metres of golden sands and rock pools. Stay in one of the 30 en-suite bedrooms, many offering sea views, enjoy a drink in the welcoming lounge bar or sample some delicious food in the á la carte restaurant, both boasting direct views of the English Channel.
The New Inn, Minster
Locals, we know you've heard about this gem and no doubt love it (we’re sure your pups do too!), and if you're visiting the beautiful village of Minster, then The New Inn is certainly a pub you want to check out. With a relaxed and cosy atmosphere, stocked with award-winning wines and Champagnes, as well as a mouth-watering menu that'll cure those rumbling stomachs with traditional dishes, crafted using high quality local ingredients. This is the perfect pit-stop for when you've had a busy morning wandering around the village and just fancy a good old pub lunch.
Four Candles Alehouse, Broadstairs
A swig of the finest real ales and ciders, and sip of fruity wine, whatever your choice of tipple, know that with Four Candles Alehouse you’ll be enjoying the ale from underneath you, quite literally, from their brewery cellar,. It’s sounding like a place you need to visit, right? But, what if we told you this little gem of Broadstairs is Britain’s smallest brew pub! Loved by locals and ready to welcome visitors. It may be small but the cosy and inviting atmosphere will draw you in, we’re sure of it!
Ashford
The Woolpack, Tenterden
Located in the heart of the picturesque town of Tenterden, this charming 15th-century inn is steeped in history and character. The Woolpack welcomes you with its crackling log fires, exposed wooden beams, and traditional décor, all beautifully adorned with festive decorations during the holiday season. Savour a sumptuous menu featuring classic seasonal dishes, crafted from the finest local ingredients, and complemented by a superb selection of wines and ales.
The Vine Inn, Tenterden
With a combination of traditional and contemporary style, The Vine Inn offers a warm conservatory filled with natural light perfect for a daytime visit. On those sunny winter days head outside to the beautiful walled garden and feast on the scrumptious cuisine. Whatever the occasion, you are guaranteed good food, comfort and pure relaxation here at The Vine Inn.
The Three Chimneys. Biddenden
Located in the land that lies between the North and South Downs, The Three Chimneys has it all. A deep history that dates back to approximately 1420 and began as a simple country alehouse. It has since doubled in size, now featuring five dining areas and high furnished rooms for those who want to escape to the warm and relaxing atmosphere of this traditional Kentish pub.
Dover
The St Crispin Inn
Fully immerse yourself in the season at the St Crispin Inn, nestled in the charming village of Worth, encapsulating the charm and character of the Kentish countryside. Pull up a chair and be treated to some fantastic fine dining (just one look at their Insta feed will have your mouth watering!), before sampling some of their on-tap drinks to top off your afternoon.
Fitzwalter Arms
Warm up next to the log fire during the winter months at the Fitzwalter Arms, a 15th century pub and restaurant with excellent food, cooked fresh to order. This stunning building is picture-perfect and will certainly make the perfect addition to those long afternoons spent exploring the Kentish countryside, stepping in to be greeted by friendly faces and mouth-watering smells from the stove.
The Royal Hotel, Deal
After a long walk along the seafront, there is no better place to relax and unwind than at The Royal Hotel. Whether you're spending time with family or you want to treat that special someone; the Royal Hotel offers a delicious menu made up of locally sourced ingredients. With cosy fires, a menu which includes many different international and local wines and beers and with a terrace that overlooks the sea, the Royal Hotel promises a visit you will never forget.
The White Horse, Dover
Before we get stuck into why The White Horse is well worth a visit on those winter days, we just need to mention the fascinating history of this majestic old building, because trust us you’re going to want to learn all about it… But we won’t get into that, because you can read all about it on their website. However, know that when you walk through the doors of this award-winning public house, you’ll be greeted with a warm and cosy atmosphere where you can enjoy traditional, home cooked dishes. And, pet parents listen up, because your furry friends are invited too and might even get to feature on their Instagram as part of their #DogOfTheDay series!
The Chance Inn, Guston
Just a short drive from Dover Castle you can find one of Dover’s 'best kept secrets'. The Chance Inn has that cosy feeling, serving home cooked popular British dishes. With a great location you can find yourself relaxing here with a tipple or two after a stroll from the White cliffs of Dover. It might be chilly in the winter so be sure to warm up in front of their log burners and bring your furry friends inside to warm up too because they are pet friendly!
Stay a little longer with Keepers Cottages
Looking to stay a little longer? Why not check in to a beautiful cottage with Keepers Cottages? Both their Victory Cottage and Meggetts Cottage are located in the Dover area, with Victory Cottage being the ideal location for a family retreat to the coast. While Meggetts Cottage is located in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, perfect for those countryside walks and views.
Medway
The Butcher's Block, Rochester
A country pub with delicious grub, we’re here for it! And just a glance at their October Sunday Lunch menu has our stomach rumbling, and no doubt yours will be too! Using local suppliers for both their food and drinks menu, a proud winner of an AA Rosette award for culinary excellence, and welcoming your four legged friends… You might as well book your table now, we know we will!
Gravesham
The George Inn, Meopham
An oaked-beamed bar, a restaurant boasting with character and not to mention their open log fireplace, which as you can imagine, creates that perfect cosy atmosphere on a frosty day. Just to add to the warmth of this traditional pub, your experience will be topped off with a delicious meal. Whether you opt for their pub and restaurant menu, or fancy a Sunday Lunch, just know that a warm, hearty meal is on the table, quite literally!
