Bell Hotel, Sandwich

Substantial, refurbished but still traditional, hotel overlooking The Quay, now run by Shepherd Neame but without any obvious branding. The main entrance is now off the High Street, with the bar behind the River Stour frontage accessed via the dining rooms. However, all tables were taken or reserved when I visited so I was directed back to the lounge / reception area with my Whitstable Bay Pale (£4.70) - the only real ale available from the bank of five handpumps.

Official site of Bell Hotel - www.bellhotelsandwich.co.uk