The Harrow, Maidstone

After some 11 years of closure, I was far from convinced that I would ever get another pint in this traditional village pub, but a sustained campaign by a group of local residents against change of use to residential finally paid off earlier this year. Retains a two-bar layout in an overall 'L' shape, with some lounge-like seating at the far end of the long front counter but just a limited amount of basic furniture in the smaller side area (which can also be easily cleared for live music, etc.) and a large TV for sport. Also has several benches out front. Fairly restricted drinks range at the moment, with a single handpump on each counter usually dispensing a Tonbridge or Welton's beer (with the latter's Horsham Pale Ale, £4.00, available when I stopped by). Overall, still a work in progress, but it's great to see this place open again as the main amenity for the community.