The New Drum, Tonbridge

The New Drum is nestled in amongst some housing down a residential street a short walk from Tonbridge Railway Station. On approach the pub sign soon reveals the location of the pub and a banner across some waist high railings that run the width of the facade reveal that live sports are shown. The open plan carpeted interior was comfortable enough and I received a warm welcome from the governor. Standard draught was available from the bar that also supported four cask lines. One of these had a missing hand pull so the remaining pumps were drawing Harveys’ Best, Greene King IPA and Nelson Brewery’s Trafalgar Bitter. Two plasma screens flank the entrance and there is a third smaller screen at the rear that hangs on the wall above a piano. I noted the presence of a jukebox and free Wifi was advertised. Out the back is a covered patio area that houses a couple of picnic tables and a sofa. To the left is a brick barbeque and beyond the patio is a long grass covered beer garden that sits alongside residential gardens. I liked it in here and will visit again if I find myself in the area with some time to kill.

Having just moved into the area thought we would check out the local pub. From the outside it looks like all the other houses - only giveaway is the Courage cockerel sign. When we walked in, what a pleasant surprise! Very friendly manager (apparently only been there 2 years), excellent ales (recommend the Greene King IPA)and a cozy but vibrant atmosphere. The real jewel in the crown however was the beer garden - who would have thought that such a small pub would have such a splendid beer garden? Very clean, loads of space and a wonderful way to spend an afternoon.