Northern Belle, Margate

Official site of The Northern Belle - www.shepherdneame.co.uk

Traditional side-street pub, apparently Margate's oldest, and a welcome haven from some of the livelier and brasher seafront bars. The compact bar is in the front room, but a (slightly) larger seating area can be found to the rear. Light wood-panelling on most walls, and decor naturally following a nautical theme. Live music advertised (although how they manage to fit a band in is far from obvious...). Three handpumps on the counter, dispensing - as a Shepherd Neame house - Master Brew, Whitstable Bay and the seasonal Goldings Summer Ale (£3.70).

Official site of The Northern Belle - www.shepherdneame.co.uk

The pub was, as Roger says, built in 1680 by knocking two fisherman's cottages together, but it was known as The Aurora Borealis before changing its name to the Waterman Arms. It is certainly Margate's oldest pub and is a GBG regular. It's tucked away down a side street and provides a fine contrast to the noisier seafront pubs, while the welcoming banter from the locals contrasts the drunken ramblings of Margate's yoofs elsewhere. Well worth a visit for a quiet pint which you might not find in other nearby establishments. Two ales on this time, I had Masterbrew which was in excellent condition.