The Chequers, Rochester

I visited Shepherd Neame’s the Chequers at around 14:00 on a recent Tuesday afternoon when the pub had a handful of salt-of-the-earth locals in attendance. The L-shaped bar supports a standard keg range and two of the handpumps were unused which left Spitfire as the lone cask ale option. A lunch menu was available, which consisted of three types of sandwich and chips. Standard seating runs along the front windows and some high tables can be found to the right rear of the bar. This area also houses a dartboard, but there is no oche and the throw would be a bit tight so close to the wall. To the left of the bar is a double sided chimney breast that houses a burner. To the left of here are some more high tables and access to the toilets. During my visit there was some background music playing and both of the large televisions were switched off. However, live sports are advertised. Out the back is a large beer garden with a covered patio area that leads to a lawn with some picnic tables. To the right of the pub is a car park. The language was very colourful from the locals, but the woman working behind the bar was very friendly. This would be my pub of choice out of the two in Hoo.

Attractive-looking Shepherd Neame pub, with a L-shaped main bar and a separate smaller room to the left with its own narrow counter. Both parts given a surprisingly semi-modern (if rather stark) makeover. Disappointingly, just Spitfire (£4.20) available from the three handpumps.

Cracking local pub, great atmosphere and new tenants Kerry and Jackie are lovely people. Refurbished to a high standard last year. Has a dart board and pool table. Regular entertainment plus family fun days etc. 3 cask ales (Whitstable Bay, Spitfire Gold and Bishop's Finger on my last visit). Landlord is passionate about his cellar, which really shows. Beer is spotless, as are the glasses and the rest of the pub. Open Fire in the winter, nice garden with ample seating and hops in the summer. Kitchen is currently being refurbished and I am looking forward to sampling the new menu in the near future.