Two contrasting local pubs, both doing a roaring trade

I visited a couple of rural pubs recently, they were quite contradictory in nature, despite being relatively close to one another. The main difference between them is is that one is independent, and family owned, whilst the other is part of a chain of decidedly upmarket public houses. The one thing they have in common is their relative proximity to the River Medway, Kent’s major river, which runs roughly south to north bisecting the county in two. My son and I enjoyed a meal, along with a quick pint in the first of these two hostelries, whist I just happened to stop off for a quick drink at the other one. Mind you, the world and his wife seemed to be dining out there.        

Let’s start with the Chequers, an attractive oak-beamed 15th-century pub, situated in the small settlement of Laddingford, in the midst of the English hop growing countryside. The Chequers sits at the very heart of the village and is a cornerstone of village life. A true family village pub. Good quality, value for money food, including daily specials, Sunday Roast and a children's menu. The pub frontage is a sea of flowers in summer and has a covered seating area. Whilst in winter, a roaring log fire keeps customers warm.

The pub hosts a variety of events, including an annual beer festival, held to mark St George’s Day. The event takes place in the pub itself and also in the extensive garden behind. The majority of the beers are racked up in an old oast house, at the side of the pub, which looked as if it may have been a stable block, back in the day. In true festival fashion, the beers are dispensed straight from the cask. For those who prefer vertical drinking and standing at the bar, there are usually three more cask ales were available inside the pub.

A couple of weeks ago, Mrs PBT’s had gone out for a meal, with a group of her girly friends, so left to our own devices, it was boys night out as well! Matthew and I drove over to Laddingford and parked a short distance up the road from the Chequers. Matthew particularly likes this pub, and with good reason. It was a balmy summer’s evening, so we chose to sit outside, on the comfy chairs, situated beneath a canvas canopy. I didn’t take a photo of the pump clips, but I’m reasonably certain that the beer I ordered was Tim Taylor’s Golden Best. This light mild is a beer that we rarely, if ever, see in the south-east, as it seems as if the brewery is content to flood the market with its flagship, Landlord. I’m pleased to report the Golden Best was on good form, but I’m not sure what Matthew’s lager was like – I told you that I wasn’t really paying attention!

For some reason, pub seemed popular with cyclists. A small group pulled up outside the pub, and then one or two of them would head off for a short ride, only to reappear 15 minutes or so later. After a few mouthfuls of beer, some more of them would ride off, before eventually returning again. All very strange, but the terrain in this part of the county, is dead flat, as it forms part of the River Medway floodplain, and this might explain its appeal to those on two wheels. As far as the food was concerned, our meal choices were pretty conservative – cheeseburger & chips, for the lad, plus fish - variety not specified, chips & mushy peas for me.

Five days later, and on a blisteringly hot Sunday afternoon, I stopped off in Tudeley, at the Poacher & Partridge. The latter is a large and sprawling pub that boasts a large, open-plan restaurant, bar, terrace and garden area, with uninhabited views across open farmlands. Like the previous pub, the Poacher lies on the same floodplain, although is sited a bit further upstream from the Chequers. 

 The Poacher & Partridge, started life as the Red Cow – and then went through several name changes. It was known as the Hartlake for a while, because it is situated in Hartlake Road, and an entry in 1993 Real Ale Drinker’s Guide to Kent Pubs lists the pub as the Pig in Hiding. Fortunately, that daft name didn’t hang around too long, and the pub then became the Poacher. The pub underwent further enlargement in 2006, along with another makeover, plus the addition of “Partridge” to the pub’s name.

Today the Poacher & Partridge is owned by Elite Pubs, a chain of 11 up-market pubs, occupying a relatively narrow area of West Kent and East Sussex. With its mix of traditional farmhouse decor with a modern, contemporary twist, The Poacher & Partridge is perfect for alfresco dining, especially when the weather is as good as it’s been recently. The place was absolutely rammed on Sunday, and I was lucky to find a parking place, despite the recently enlarged car-park occupying three small fields.

Given the fine weather, I was keen to sit outside, although not in direct sunlight, but first a beer was in order. The cask offerings were a choice between the ubiquitous Harvey’s Best, plus India Pale Ale, from Tonbridge Brewery. I opted for the Harvey’s, as I’ve never been a massive fan of the more local beer. I’m sure it’s just me being over fussy, because I was talking to a work colleague earlier today, and she really rates Tonbridge beers. Horses for courses, I suppose, and possible proof that I perhaps need to approach Tonbridge Brewery with more of an open mind. Also, Tonbridge Coppernob is the only non-rotating cask beer, sold in both branches of Fuggles. By that I mean that particular beer is always available, regardless of what other cask ales are on sale.

After ordering my pint of Sussex Best, I headed out, through the dining area, to the extensive garden at the rear. That too was packed, with the best tables being those with parasols providing welcome shade. I was lucky to find an empty table, and whilst it was one without any shade, my wide-brim sunhat, protected me from the worst of the sun’s rays. 

I sat at the table, enjoying an excellent glass of Harvey’s whilst watching the punters soaking up the sun, the beer and the food in equal quantities. With a separate outside bar, serving wine, lager and cocktails, plus numerous members of the Poacher’s team in their distinctive black and yellow, corporate attire, the place had the appearance and feel of a well-oiled, military encampment. Everyone seemed to be having a good time, even the couple I noted earlier, who’d managed to find some shade for their two hounds.

As I was driving, I limited myself to a single pint – although that might be too much if the government carry out their treat to reduce the drink-drive limit! Later that afternoon, I saw a local news update about the Hilden Manor, a Beefeater restaurant on the edge of Tonbridge. Owners Whitbread have already announce the closure of this imposing Grade II-listed building, which dates back to the 14^th & 15^th centuries. The breaking news is the site will be reopening under the name of the Never-Say-Never, in December this year. It will be a part of the Elite Pubs group, the same chain that own and operate the Poacher, (see above). I’m not sure about the name, but I shall look forward to seeing what the new owners have planned for this rambling old building.

 

 

No GBBF for Paul this year. Meanwhile AI marches steadily on

Yesterday, Friday, I was supposed to be attending the Great British Beer Festival.  This was because I managed to obtain a Press Pass, in my capacity of a blog writer/owner, that entitled me to free admission to the event. I was therefore looking forward, believe it or not, to experiencing this iconic event, in its new home. The “new home” tag refers to the festival’s move from London Olympia to Birmingham’s National Exhibition Centre (NEC). This follows an 11-year run at Olympia (although the 2020 & 2021 events were cancelled, due to COVID) – alternating somewhat in the early days, between Olympia and the now demolished, Earl’s Court. Problems last year, affecting the availability of Olympia, led to cancellation of the 2024 festival, leaving CAMRA looking for a new site.

The move to the NEC made perfect sense, given its more central location, and associated ease of access, but having attended numerous, work-related trade-events at this venue, I had my doubts. These were related to the structure of the NEC, rather than the venue itself, as like most exhibition halls (and I’ve been to several overseas events, as well), the place is pretty soulless, consisting in the main, of a series of connected metal “sheds”. Despite these misgivings, I was determined to give the new venue a go, and if I’d got my a*se in gear sooner, I would definitely have gone. Distracted by other things, and taking my eye of the ball last weekend, meant that the £30 Advanced Return ticket I could (and should) have bought at the end of July, would now cost me more than double that price!

This put a whole different spin on things, and whilst I still could have afforded that price, I like to get value for money, and a 100% increase in the rail fare, didn’t tick that box. Instead, I shall put that £60+ quid towards a trip somewhere else in the British Isles, and somewhere I haven’t been to before, but have a serious longing to visit – Totnes/Topsham, Hebden Bridge, Newcastle, & Huddersfield are towns that look like favourites, at the moment.

Before signing off, here’s something to grab your attention, because when I started writing this piece, Artificial Intelligence (AI) popped up on my computer screen,  and asked me to describe what I’d like to write. The programme I use is Microsoft Word, I’m not sure which version it is, but as I pay a yearly subscription, I’m assuming it is the latest version. Somewhat “tongue in cheek” I typed in “Great British Festival” and in less than a minute, Mr Gates’s software came up with the piece in coloured text, below. Readable and accurate, apart from not mentioning the change in venue, from Olympia to the NEC.

Frightening too, as it stifles creativity, and the effort needed to research and write a blog piece in the first place. Is this the way the world is going? Because if so, it’s going to put a lot of people who write for a living, out of work. That doesn’t include me, as I write for pleasure, rather than to make a living, but I am concerned that stifling the thought processes involved with creative works, and the deeply personal input that writers and authors can give, we’re going to be turning out a whole generation of automatons. Ignore at your peril, and don’t say, I didn’t tell you so!

Great British Beer Festival

A Celebration of British Brewing Excellence

The Great British Beer Festival (GBBF) is one of the UK's largest and most renowned beer festivals, organised annually by the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA). Held in London, this iconic event brings together beer lovers from across Britain and beyond to celebrate the rich heritage and diversity of British brewing.

Event Highlights

·         Wide Selection of Beers: Featuring hundreds of real ales, ciders, and perries from traditional breweries and innovative newcomers.

·        International Flavours: Alongside British brews, the festival showcases beers from across Europe and further afield.

·        Live Entertainment: Attendees can enjoy live music, pub games, and a lively atmosphere throughout the event.

·        Expert Talks and Tastings: Masterclasses, guided tastings, and talks from brewers and industry experts offer insight into the world of beer.

·        Food Stalls: A range of classic British fare and international cuisine complements the extensive drinks selection.

Who Should Attend?

The GBBF is ideal for anyone with a passion for beer, whether you're a seasoned aficionado or simply curious to explore new flavours. It is a fantastic way to experience British pub culture, meet fellow enthusiasts, and discover the latest trends in brewing.

When and Where?

The festival typically takes place in early August at Olympia London, easily accessible via public transport. For up-to-date information on dates, tickets, and featured brewers, visit the official CAMRA website.

Fun Fact

Since its inception in 1977, the Great British Beer Festival has grown to become a cornerstone event for beer lovers, often referred to as the "biggest pub in the world" during its run.

 

Which Swan should I go for?

Sunday’s trip out, postponed from Friday, came down to a choice between two very different options. The simplest, and perhaps the easier of the two was a long overdue visit to the Swan-on-the-Green at West Peckham.  The second was a trip out along the Tonbridge-Redhill railway line, a route I was singing the praises of in my recent posts about a day out in Farnham. 

The train journey I had in mind, involved alighting (always a strange turn of phrase) at Nutfield – the penultimate stop before the end of the line at Redhill, visiting the pub nearest the station, and then heading two stops back, on the homeward journey towards, Tonbridge and again leaving the train in search of a nearby pub. That stop would have been Edenbridge, at what is known as the top station (there are two unconnected stations in the town), and then visiting the nearest of the town’s five pubs. For the record the pubs concerned were the Station, at South Nutfield (the pub that’s just a stone’s throw from the station) and the Swan, Edenbridge, again the nearest hostelry to the train stop.

I’ve been to the Swan a couple of times before, but Nutfield represents unknown territory.  I’ve never left the train there, and I’ve never visited any of the village’s three pubs. In the end, the nearest of the two Swans won the day, although I plan on reserving my mini Redhill line exploration for a day when the weather is far less clement than it’s been of late, and when I’m looking for a spot of pub exploration nearer to home. It’s amazing though, that sometimes you don’t realise what’s virtually on your own doorstep, but that triangle of territory, where three counties meet (Surrey, Sussex and Kent) is the south-east’s “Bermuda triangle.”

It’s a place where identities become blurred and where it’s easy to lose one’s bearings, but that’s all for another day, as my visit to the West Peckham, and its community-owned pub, was a chance to see how things were progressing since the pub was acquired by the village. 

It also provided an opportunity to see how my investment was progressing, because as you may remember, I purchased some shares in the pub, at the end of last year, being one of many local people determined to help save the Swan for the local community. Well, I’m pleased to report that the pub appears to be thriving, as I’m going to relate shortly, but first some information on how to get there using public transport (and Shank’s Pony), from either Tonbridge or Maidstone.

Arriva bus No. 7 operates a half-hourly service, in both directions, between Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells, and that 30-minute frequency amazingly applies on Sundays as well. Mereworth school is the stop you require, and from there it is roughly a 25-minute walk, to West Peckham. After leaving the bus, walk back for a short distance, towards the B2016 Seven Mile lane. Cross with care, making full use of the pedestrian refuge (traffic island) halfway across. Almost straight ahead is Mereworth Road which you need to follow for a mile or so, in order to take you to West Peckham. Like all country roads you need to have your wits about you, as whilst traffic is relatively light, drivers sometimes forget the pedestrians might also want to use the road, as well as themselves.

You will eventually see the sign, indicating you have reached the village, but make sure that you follow the left-hand fork, that is Church Road, into the village centre. On your right you will notice the attractive, little church of St Dunstan, which dates back to the 14^th century, although it is believed that a previous building of Saxon-Norman origin, predates this. The church looks out over the green, and on the left-hand side of this pleasant open space you will find the Swan-on-the-Green.

At the end of 2023, Gordon Milligan, the previous owner of the Swan, announced his intention to sell the pub, after 24 years in the trade. Instead of converting the pub into housing, Mr Milligan offered the opportunity for local residents to purchase it. The community formed a steering group with the goal of collectively buying the building. 

Interest in the project extended beyond West Peckham and into neighbouring areas of west Kent, which led to Mr Milligan granting the group six months’ exclusivity to come up with a plan.  After reaching a purchase agreement in principle, the group sought funding through the Community Ownership Grant scheme and solicited donations from villagers, other private individuals and local businesses. This was followed by the establishment of the Swan Community Project Ltd, a “not for profit” company with a mission to own and manage the Swan, for the benefit of the Community. Any profits generated are to be re-invested in the project. Last November, after expressing an interest in the project, I took the plunge and am now the proud owner of 250 shares in the Swan.

The weather last Sunday was dry and bright, but quite blustery, and with the buses operating mainly to time, it wasn’t long before I was deposited outside Mereworth Primary School. The conditions were ideal for a walk, and it wasn’t long before I reached West Peckham. The Sunday service at the church, was just finishing as I strolled by, and the vicar was shaking hands with his parishioners as they filed out through the front porch. Reaching the pub, I noticed quite a few customers sitting at tables, on the edge of the green, under the trees, opposite the pub.

This was obviously a good sign, and after popping inside I could see that quite a few tables were either occupied by diners or had signs indicating they were reserved.  Approaching the bar, I discovered there were two cask offering from Tonbridge Brewery, plus local, west-Kent favourite, Larkin's Traditional. I opted for Tonbridge Easy Street Pale which, as its name implies, is an easy drinking, mid-strength, pale ale. The beer fitted its description, and given the pleasant weather conditions, I took my pint outside, and parked myself at one of the bench tables, just outside the pub. I watched with interest, as a group, led by the vicar who I’d just seen, strolled over from the church and ordered themselves some drinks. They were sitting a few tables away from me, so I couldn’t really hear what they were saying – not that I wanted to, anyway!

The pub itself was ticking over nicely, which is good, regardless of any financial interest I might have, in the place. I asked one of the bar staff, how things were going, and he confirmed that the trade was good. For my second pint, I decided to go for something different, and having noticed a tap on the bar for Hawkstone Session – a beer associated with former Top Gear presenter, turned farmer, Jeremy Clarkson, I thought I’d give it a try. If nothing else, it would mean another tick on Untappd, but it was a bit more than that. The Session is 4.0%, whilst Hawkstone’s Premium weighs in at 4.8% abv. The company behind the brand, was formerly known as Cotswolds Brewing Company, before changing its name to Hawkstone.  

I timed my walk back to Mereworth just right, leaving sufficient time, if necessary, to nip behind a hedge, in order to siphon off any excess beer, but fortunately no such stop was necessary. Not quite so fortunate was the lack of buses up to Bailey Towers, from the Tonbridge High Street. Having just missed one and not wishing to wait 50 minutes for the next one, I trudged my way back up the hill. Once home, I found Mrs PBT’s taking much more of an interest than usual in my pub expedition.  It looks as if she wants to accompany me, next time although, as she doesn’t really do walking along country lanes,  I will need to drive us both there!