The Barge, Gillingham - pub details
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Address: 63 Layfield Road, Gillingham, Kent, ME7 2QY [map] [gmap]
Tel: 0871 951 1000 (ref 3026) - calls cost 10p per minute plus network extras
Gillingham - Kent (0.8 miles), Chatham (2.3 miles), Rochester (2.6 miles)
Pub facilities/features:
- Real ale
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> Current user rating: 7.6/10 (rated by 18 users)
other pubs nearby:
Barge, Gillingham (0.0 miles), Ship, Gillingham (0.1 miles), Plough and Chequers, Gillingham (0.4 miles), Hastings Arms, Rainham (0.5 miles), Livingstone Arms, Gillingham (0.7 miles) - see more nearby pubs
user reviews of the Barge, Gillingham
please note - reviews on this site are purely the opinion of site visitors, so don't take them too seriously.
5 most recent reviews of 16 shown - see all reviews
| Was attacked by a sheep in the garden of this pub some years back; still liked the pub and beer though ! mtaylor40 - 28 Jun 2011 00:16 |
| Not an area generally noted for quality ale houses, the Kentish town of Gillingham, does, however, throw up a few surprises. One such place often lauded, is here: The Barge. Set away from the town centre and all the troubles that can arise there, this slightly odd, though be it, quirky and charming hostelry offers the discerning local � and from further afield as well, of course � the opportunity to sample local brews and take in an array of folk and acoustic-based live acts � admittedly though, of varying levels of ability. The exterior is one of immediate intrigue and invite and indeed, the promise is fulfilled once within: dark, wooden, candle light, lanterns, and a very atmospheric feel and ambience. Cigarette cards, old smoking pipes, model ships and plenty of nautical-themed bric-a-brac can be spotted adorning the walls. Aside from the music � a sizeable stage is towards the rear of the pub � an active pool table and a dartboard are all on offer for entertainment. Background music is aired at a gentle volume and is seemingly, a constant stream of the more credible hits of yesteryear. To the rear of the establishment is a sheltered conservatory, complete with an old piano, table tennis (!!) and an old bird�s cage. A straggly, uncared-for beer garden follows on and despite the view of the River Medway; one cannot help but feel that here could be much improved upon. It resembles a junk yard and a little TLC, could really improve what could be a champion asset to the pub. Back inside, the bar � as previously mentioned � offers a selection of locally brewed and themed ales � although of the five hand pumps, only three and two respectively, have been in working order during my couple of recent stays. Amongst those sampled: Wadworth Henrys Original IPA, Gravesend Shrimpers Bitter and Nelson�s Powder Monkey. All beers served have been in perfectly drinkable condition by approachable and friendly members of staff. Indeed, the landlord himself is most forthcoming and charismatic, offering cheery welcomes and goodbyes upon entry and exit. To conclude: here does deserve the plaudits and if a few niggles could be addressed � hello garden � then The Barge would surely be, the pub that every Medway establishment should aspire to. HTM69 - 17 Aug 2009 22:57 |
| Good back street pub in a town not really noted for quality of alehouses but you need to either know where it is or be recommended it to find it as its tucked away in a little corner of the town. Decent beers though bit pricey but most places are and at least here you get a decent pint. Bit on the dark side but adds to the atmosphere and you wouldnt believe you were in a built up area music on mondays and wednesdays normally which is free and a quiz on sunday nights so a few things going on.a trouble free place as well so well recommended. mintyfc - 26 May 2009 10:47 |
| Been here twice now. Very dark and a very strange atmosphere the first time I came here. The place to go if you just want to have quite a few drinks and not worry, but if you go somewhere else first with a great atmosphere then stay there and don't venture on. It's like stepping back in time, pinch yourself to make sure that you are there and haven't gone back 200 years. The stuffed animals are a very strange thing to have around. A bit more light would make it feel more homely and at least you could see what your eating or drinking. Wouldn't make it my first pub of call, but okay if you are passing (quickly). lushlou - 17 Apr 2009 15:58 |
| A hidden gem. A great place to visit and always a good, friendly atmosphere. People don't seem to know of it's existence locally which seems odd, despite it's tucked away location; especially considering the enormous amount of pubs which have closed locally. The pub very much focuses on quality music and quality beer and is very dimly lit, which would be a pain at some other pubs but really adds to the atmosphere. It has a traditional pub feel with friendly clientele and I've never had a bad night in there or seen any trouble. Overall, well worth a visit and you'll want to keep this one a secret. Dunmall - 2 Jan 2009 04:48 |
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