Wafts of suntan lotion and the scent of barbeques fill the air, and everyone’s praying for a sunny affair. The shorts are at the ready, the bottle openers are held steady, and people are raring for an al fresco dining experience in the Garden of England.
It’s the time of year when everyone is looking for the ultimate foodie spot with great outdoor spaces and ‘ale’ the best craft beers. Whether you’re looking for a hearty pub lunch in the country, or to enjoy a cold cider in the sun, we are here to serve up our favourite Shepherd Neame pub gardens, set to sizzle this season.
Take a trip to the Swan and Dog pub where you can whet your appetite with their famous burgers and steaks, cooked to order, and vegetarian dishes made with the best local produce the Garden of England has to offer. Soak up the sun in the Swan and Dog’s beer garden, set in the charming village of Great Chart, and enjoy a cool glass of larger, brewed here in Kent.
Venture to the medieval city of Canterbury, where you’ll find the stylish pub and wine bar, The Shakespeare, down one of the city’s iconic cobbled streets. Expect the best of a British fare in this elegant establishment, with a firm focus on delicious home-grown ingredients. Sink your teeth into traditional British dishes, Kentish gourmet burgers and ales with a local flavour, brewed just 10 miles away by Shepheard Neame in Faversham.
If you don't feel like driving or spending money on an expensive taxi fare, The Shakespeare is just a 15 minute walk away from Canterbury West train station.
Overlooking the golden sands and blue sea of Thanet, The Minnis Bay Bar & Brasserie is a relaxed and stylish pub offering outstanding views, great food and an extensive drinks list. Enjoy a glass of dry and crisp wine on the terrace, watching the sun sink into the sea. Get those taste buds tingling with your favourite pub dishes or indulge in some traditional seaside fun with an ice cream by the beach.
Why not save on parking and take the train? Birchington-on-Sea railway station is just a 20 minute walk away
Take a trip to Chatham Maritime where you’ll find Pier Five, a contemporary waterside bar and kitchen with an international outlook. As well as enjoying crafted ales, spirits and cocktails you can also sip on the freshest artisan coffees in town, whilst looking out onto the River Medway. The kitchen also packs a punch. I’m talking oven-baked hand-stretched pizzas, flame-grilled chicken and superfood salads. So go on try something new today.
Are you a fan of seafood? Partial to a sunset and stunning ocean views? Or even an ale fanatic? Well then get yourself over to the Zetland Arms, a beachside pub with a difference. You can skim a stone on the waves from the outside patio and take in the sea breeze whilst tucking into fresh fish caught just off the Kent coast. Sample a perfect pint in either the bar, by the sea or even the suntrap walled garden.
Head to Dartford’s waterside dining destination, The Wharf, which serves fine food and drink with a sprinkling of picturesque views. Enjoy a great range of specially selected wines and Kentish cask ales, and be sure to grab a seat on the decking overlooking the River Thames. This pub is not only known for its ideal location but also for its famous Sunday Carvery with all the trimmings.
Just a 20 minute walk away is Stone Crossing railway, so there is no need to worry about getting a taxi home after your delicious pint.
Just a few minutes from the quaint village of Yalding you’ll find the delightful Boathouse Pub & Restaurant which sits on the waterside of the River Medway. Its alfresco dining area and restaurant offer everything from a quick bite to eat to a hearty family meal. The pub is also dog friendly so you can bring your trusty four legged friend along.
Eight minutes away is Yalding Railway Station, offering a safe journey home after enjoying a few pints in the pub.
