The Wishful Thinker, Maidstone

Never thought this one would come back after it closed in 2015, but it was bought by the local Elite Pubs mini-chain and reopened in 2023 after a considerable investment. The odd glazed extension at the front has been removed, so it now looks much better with the original facade now fully visible again. Although not readily visible from the road, there has also be a very large extension at the back for the extensive dining area at a lower level beyond the bar and for the added hotel rooms. Upmarket look throughout. Sizable (although oddly sparely furnished) beer garden to one side. Harvey's and Sharp's Solar Wave (served in the fancy new glass) available on handpump.