The Spotted Dog, Tonbridge

This wonderful pub changed ownership recently but has ceased to be one of my favourites. The locals discount has been withdrawn except for Monday to Thursday, menu has changed (not for the better) and prices have gone up. It appears they don't want the locals in there any more but it's not all bad, on my last visit the Harvey's ale was very good indeed.

Venerable country pub, claiming reasonably plausibly to date from 1520, set in an elevated position with some views of the Wealden landscape through the trees from the split-level terraced beer garden at the back. A smaller area of covered outdoor seating can also be found at the front. The multi-room traditional interior also retains a lot of character, with various seating and dining areas in different parts of the building of different ages. Two real ales on handpump - the local Larkin's Traditional and the ubiquitous Harvey's (£3.90, and in great shape).