Pubs in Kent Guide
Welcome to our guide to Pubs in Kent
One of our favourite topics and guides at The Kent Tourist, pubs are what makes Kent great.
Some of the best pubs in the country reside here in Kent and we’re proud to serve some of the finest pours. What really sets Kent up as a pub-hub is the eclectic mix of local breweries, history and how good the food and drink tastes from Spring all the way to Winter. Read on and discover more about our favourite pubs in the Garden of England.
About Pubs in Kent
Kent’s pub culture is steeped in history. The county is home to Shepherd Neame in Faversham, Britain’s oldest brewer, and boasts centuries-old taverns that once served smugglers, sailors and travellers along the ancient roads to London. Today, you can expect everything from charming thatched-roof inns to modern venues serving craft beer, fine wine and locally sourced food.
Many pubs celebrate Kent’s farming and brewing heritage, featuring ingredients from the county’s orchards, hop gardens and vineyards. Expect menus filled with Kentish ales, ciders, cheeses, meats and seasonal produce, as well as an unmistakable sense of local pride.
Types of Pubs to Visit in Kent
Country Pubs - Hidden among the rolling hills of the Kent Downs, traditional inns such as The Three Chimneys in Biddenden or The Plough at Stalisfield offer open fires, hearty Sunday roasts and dog-friendly gardens.
Coastal Pubs - Along the coast, enjoy sea views and fresh seafood at spots like Old Neptune in Whitstable, The Zetland Arms in Kingsdown or one of our favourites, The Port Arms in Deal (especially during the Summer).
Historic Taverns - In towns such as Canterbury, Sandwich and Rochester, you’ll find pubs dating back to the medieval and Tudor eras, each with stories of pilgrims, smugglers and writers.
Gastro and Boutique Pubs – Kent’s dining scene is flourishing, with modern pubs blending traditional character with refined menus and award-winning wines from local vineyards. One of the best pubs in the country sits in the north east of Kent: The Sportsman.
Our Best Kent Pubs Guides
Local Drinks and Breweries
No visit to Kent is complete without sampling its local brews.
Shepherd Neame (Faversham) – Britain’s oldest brewery, producing classics like Spitfire and Whitstable Bay.
Goacher’s Brewery (Maidstone) – Traditional ales brewed with Kentish hops.
Canterbury Ales, Romney Marsh Brewery, and The Curious Brewery in Ashford – all worth seeking out for something different.
Kent’s growing wine industry also influences many pub wine lists, featuring bottles from vineyards like Chapel Down, Gusbourne and Balfour.
Planning Your Visit
If you’re touring Kent’s towns or countryside, pub-hopping is one of the most rewarding ways to experience local life. Combine your trip with visits to local attractions, scenic walks or coastal viewpoints, and explore nearby destinations such as Whitstable, Canterbury, Deal, and Sevenoaks.
For more inspiration, explore our guides to:
Our guide to the best Sunday roast pubs in Kent