The Cricketers Inn, Meopham

Went with large family group (9 adults, 2 kids under 3) and were very pleased with food, service, atmosphere and - most importantly- beer.

Beer:
Harveys Best, Adnams Southwold Bitter, London Pride and Hogsback T.E.A. were all on. I had all except the Pride and all were just about perfect.

Food:
Decent portions, tasted good and not too pricey.

Atmosphere:
Large, lively pub with lots of areas and lots of character. Was busier than expected but we were lucky to walk in and get a table for lunch. Service was very good. Would probably reserve a table in advance next time.

Only issue was a mistake on the bill which was soon rectified without any problems.

Overall:
Large, friendly pub ideal for families as well as regular pub goers.

4 Jan 2013 18:54

The Woodman, Ide Hill

I've been going to this pub for roughly the last 5 years with my wife and her parents and it's always been a pleasant experience.

The beer is well kept (Youngs, Bombardier and Doom Bar were on last time we visited) and the food - whilst it won't blow your socks off - is consistently good.

It's a large pub in an old-country style but never feels too big as it has lots of cosy divided-off areas.

Ideal for families, easy access for prams.

Recommended.

2 Jan 2013 16:03

The Hand in Hand, Boxhill

We went for a Sunday carvery with our 5 month old baby (and two grandparents) and had a lovely time.

Plus points:

The carvery was stupidly good value at £9.95. I've paid more and got less, no complaints about this.

If you've got kids, it's perfect. We got in at opening time and nabbed a corner table in the bar area, loads of room for pram. There was a large separate restaurant area and another space for adults which was showing football, but it was well enough away not to distract us.

Toilets were clean and modern.

Inside was clean and spacious with an open fire. Outside area looked brilliant for better weather.

Service was excellent, staff friendly.

Parking was easy.

Gripes:

Restaurant area looked nice but we decided not to book it as there we would've had to leave the table after a set time (I think it was 90mins). We stayed at our bar table (no time limit) for two hours, which was perfect for a long lazy lunch.

The choice of three ales (one of which was Harveys) quickly became a choice of one as the other two were off. Dissapointed by this but the ale that was on tasted lovely.

Though the inside is clean and modern in a 'Farrow and Ball' style, some may find it a bit soulless. I personally don't mind too much as it worked really well for a relaxing family lunch (especially for my wife who's having to deal with being mum 24/7). I love more traditional pubs, but they're not always as pram-friendly.

Overall:
Perfect pub for a Sunday roast, especially if you've got youngsters (the oldies enjoyed it too). Food, beer and atmosphere were great. Will be returning.

2 Jan 2013 15:51