Coach House, Maidstone

A rather dull town pub, and not the most friendly. The large annoying bulldog was actually the most sociable of the inhabitants when we went in, while the barman appeared somewhat put out that he had to serve us. There was a clique of locals occupying the bar area, but the pub overall lacked atmosphere. It no longer has the LGBTQWTF+ cachet, though one sorry-looking individual did wander in looking like Jimmy Saville in disguise. The overloud jukebox didn’t help. Two pumps on the bar, one dry, the other dispensing Tonbridge Blond Ambition in average condition. I can’t say I’ll be rushing back.

Fine-looking old pub, known in recent years as Maidstone's leading LGBT-friendly venue but a change of management has apparently seen some change of focus. The various seating areas in the partly opened-out interior have been refurbished in an attractive semi-modern style. However, it retains a pool table in one corner and the rear patio beer garden was the most popular spot on a sunny Spring afternoon. Neither of the pair of handpumps was working, unfortunately, but a reversed Old Rosie cider clip was noted on one and signage suggests that Pride is usually on the other. With nothing of interest in the fridges either, I just had a quick pint of (overpriced) John Smiths (£3.80).

The Queen Anne consists of a U shaped bar area to the right of the pub and a stage surrounded by seating to the left. With a stage being so central to the pub I was surprised not to see any upcoming events advertised. To the right of the entrance by the front window are a pool table and a plasma screen. I didn’t see any Sky Sports advertised and there was some dance music playing during my recent Thursday afternoon visit. The bar is stocked with standard draught and San Miguel. There are also two hand pumps, but the Shepherd Neame’s Spitfire was off so Young’s Ordinary was the lone ale option. A couple of round picnic tables are situated either side of the entrance, but there is more seating at the rear where there is also a raised decked area that is covered. Whilst having a nose around outside I took the opportunity to pour my rancid half of generic lager into one of the many plant pots. The service was friendly, but I do not plan to return here in the near future.