The Fountain, Whitstable

Facebook page of The Fountain - www.facebook.com

Facebook page of The Fountain - www.facebook.com

I’m very happy to report that the proposed conversion didn’t take place and that this pub is now a lively, busy back street local with as many dogs as humans enjoying the place. There are seats outside at the front, though these are probably not comfortable in bad weather as they’re not sheltered. Inside, the single long bar is much as described by Roger, below, ten years ago, complete with pool table and comfy seating at the end. I did the find landlord a bit abrasive, but the other customers were more welcoming. Only one ale on, Wantsum Aloha, which was in very good condition. Camden IPA was available on keg. A good pub rescued from the developers.

The Fountain Inn, at 29 Sydenham Street, will be changed from a public house into three self-contained houses after plans were approved on Friday (January 29).

This back street corner pub is a little tucked away but within easy stroll of the main part of town. It was until recently under threat of closure but has survived to fight another day although given that it was virtually empty on what is probably Whitstable’s busiest day of the year suggests that it may have a few more bumpy rides ahead. The small interior is quite narrow with a central bar and a small drinking area at the front with some tiny fixed tables contained within a circlet of leather backed banquettes. To the rear is a pool table that seemed to be the focus of the few customers present although I did note a Monopoly game on the window ledge and TV within an alcove. The overall décor is quite plain and modern with a few bits of artwork but not really much to attract any major attention. I could have probably done without the rap/hip hop music that didn’t seem to be for the benefit of anyone in particular and was a bit intrusive. The biggest downside was the beer selection with no real ales and the single beer of interest (a US craft beer the details of which I didn’t note) was off. I settled for a 1664 (£3.60), used the convenience and left wondering why some pubs really don’t seem to want to make any effort to appeal to a wider selection of customers beyond its obvious handful of regulars. It could have potential but doesn’t seem to do anything beyond the basics so unlikely to get included on our annual crawl around town unless they at least improve on the beer choices.