The Three Mariners, Faversham

Originally a pub, now a pub and restaurant, it sits at the top of a hill and has an impressive terraced garden at the front. The building is quirky, labyrinthine and overheated – it felt like a sauna in an old people's home. The food was nothing special – a nod given to gastro, but essentially smartened-up pub grub. There was an extensive wine list, but this too didn't really work – the really good wines were drastically over-priced, while the rest was just junk (also overpriced). Four handpumps on the bar, we had Whitstable Bay which was quite drinkable. I'm not sure I'd make a special effort to come back, and it's a bit too far out to be a useful addition to a town crawl, but it's probably OK for a beer if you're passing.

This Shepherd Neame pub is run by musician Hamish Stuart of Average White Band fame and one guitarist for Paul McCartney among others. The largely unspoilt exterior contains traces of its patterned glass windows in particular in the old bottle and jug doorway (now blocked off). The interior has been given a typical contemporary makeover and whilst much has been knocked through, there are enough walls and pillars remaining to subdivide the bar into a few intimate sections. Although it will probably mortify pub traditionalists, it does come over as relatively tasteful with a light, clean and airy feel to it. There is a slight nautical theme with a few nick nacks and model boats along with selections of modern art. A split level terrace at the rear, complete with a well, overlooks a huge garden which appears to be more functional than picturesque with just a snall number of benches looking a bit lost in the vastness of the garden. An annual music festival is held every September that attracts some well known artists (Paul Young, Chris Difford & Mike Scott to name a few that have turned up) in what would be quite intinate surroundings. The 3 Shepherd Neame ales on my visit were Late Red, Master Brew and the seasonal Autumn Harvest. Quality was good and prices about average. The pub is probably more dining orientated although it doesn’t feel too awkward for those who just want to drink. It also makes an excellent base for some lovely circular walks from village over the Oare marshes which will be the main reason for me to return.