The Dirty Habit, Maidstone

Facebook page of The Dirty Habit - www.facebook.com

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Formerly the Pilgrims Rest and Kings Head, this is now - despite the slightly dodgy name - an upmarket dining pub from the small local Elite Pubs chain. On a Sunday lunchtime, all the tables bar one were laid up for those eating, with the bar stools being the only other indoor option (although there is also an attractive, part-covered patio terrace at the back). Being located on the Pilgrims Way, this historic inn retains a lot of character, despite having been partly opened-out, with dark wood-panelling on some walls and exposed timbers elsewhere. Four real ales on handpump: the obligatory Harvey's, Doom Bar, Landlord and the green-hopped Flash in the Pan from the local Musket Brewery (£4.50).