Neptunes Hall, Broadstairs

GOOD BEER (if you don't mind Shep's), GOOD CROWD, FRIENDLY STAFF.......(nowt else t'say!)

4 Sep 2009 05:08

The Charles Dickens, Broadstairs

Sorry to correct you Thebman, but this establishment is not a Thorley Tavern, despite its decor suggesting it might be ( one colour tiled toilets, wood panels with obligatory hand painted signage adourning the canopy of the bar...etc, etc.). This comes from the fact that many years ago it was indeed one of FGT's fine establishments and the current owners (and the owners prior) have not made any effort to redecorate since then!
Once a fantastic pub (not just when under the control of Thor.Tavs, but certainly since. Particularly when Neil was at the helm (mid -late 1990's) and not forgetting the wonderfully jovial Nigel (early 2000's), it has a tired feel that is unfortunate, particularly when you consider its fantastic cliff top location.
Once famed for its entertainment and atmosphere, I felt both were sorely lacking during my most recent visit.
I asked the barman (a potential extra from a "Green Day" video) about one of the ales on offer, (I forget the name, it was that exciting (The ale, not the barman!!)) and he did not have a clue, call me old fashioned but...surely a good landlord's/manager's duty is to ensure his/her staff are knowledgable and able to respond with confidence and perhaps even false excitement (if necessary) when asked about a particular product??!!?? Could this be the reason for the obvious lack of enthusiasm from the bar staff?
A shame as I am confident that in the right pair of hands, a little TLC and certainly some new carpet, this pub could easily be restored to its former glory!!
In recent years I have only visited Sunny Broadstairs on a handful of occasions and I still always make a bee-line for this one, as despite my perhaps harsh comments above, it is, as Thebman so rightly posted probably one of the best in central Broadstairs...but then again, look at it competitors, The Rose..., The Crown..., The Prince Albert...!!!

4 Sep 2009 05:00