The Swingate Inn, Dover

Named after the swinging gate - or gallows - which used to stand nearby, The Swingate is allegedly haunted by some of those who met their end there. It's now been extended into a hotel with a restaurant and public bar, large car park and large garden with smoking area. Entry is through a hotel-style reception area which doubles as another, more public bar with a tv screen. There's a small snug to the side with an open fire. It's generally quiet, civilised and made homely by carpeted floors and subtle decor, although strangely the toilets have been left looking - and smelling - like those in a 1950s back street boozer. The staff were exceptionally pleasant and the clientele mostly harmless. The food was OK, well presented but expensive given its average quality - my jalfrezi lacked both chilli and okra, while my companion's fish was very oily. There was one ale on draft, Morland's which was in first class condition and most enjoyable. I'd be happy to stay here, and it's worth deviating from the A2 to find for a road meal if you're not in a hurry.