The Three Mariners, Hythe

Attractive side-street alehouse just on the beach side of the Royal Military Canal. Retains two bars, but the one on the corner isn't usually used except when busy. The larger (but still compact) back room is also where the six handpumps can be found. Traditional furniture and decor in both parts, but on a sunny autumn day, the extended and slightly split-level patio beer garden was the place to be. On the real ale front, I found Young's Ordinary, Hop Daemon Golden Braid, Old Dairy Copper Top and Ripple Best Bitter (£3.55).

Henry and Jude have turned the dark little pub into a real gem. It is friendly, comfortable and has a fabulous selection of real ales - especially during their annual bank holiday real ale festival. Previously of the Clarendon in Sandgate, the couple have created a great place to have a drink and meet friends - the only drawback is no food which means none of Henry's famous roast potatoes for which the Claredon was so famous!