The Royal Oak, Tunbridge Wells

First thing to say is that any reviews that pre-date the change of ownership of the Royal Oak can be safely ignored. The new landladies, who took over about eighteen months or so ago, have made a huge effort to move the place on from the run-down and slightly depressing dive that it had become.

The bitters are great and well kept; there's usually something new and interesting to try, and the wine options, while small, are well chosen too. Good simple, home-cooked food is available every day apart from Monday and Tuesday, and while I've never tried the Sunday lunch it always seems to attract a full-house.

The monthly quiz night is also packed out, and there's regular live music too if that's your thang. All in all it's well worth a visit - while not particularly quaint or gastro, if you're looking for a nice honest local with good food and beer, and a friendly welcome too, the Royal Oak fits the bill perfectly.

23 Apr 2009 13:21