The Saxon Shore (JD Wetherspoon), Herne Bay

This seafront Spoons has a rather odd layout with lower areas at the front and rear of a raised bar area up a couple of quite steep steps. At least the toilets are at ground level. There is a small area at the front with some tables and chairs and a larger patio at the rear. Unusually there are tall tables in the bar area but no chairs, presumably because they just get in the way. I got here not long before midday on a Thursday when it wasn't that busy. The bar has two sets of six hand pumps which had a cider, three available soon, Ruddles doubled up, Doom Bore, Old Dairy Red Top & Blue Top, Adnam's Redpoint Tai Pale Ale & Jester and Abbot. I went for the Jester (£2.35) which was in great condition. I thought this was an above average Spoons.

As you would expect from a seafront bar on a bank holiday weekend, this place was very busy but the staff were doing a good job behind the bar. Various seating areas comprising a 'L'-shape overall, with the central bar area located rather inconveniently up a couple of steps. Not a bad selection from 11 of 12 handpumps in operation, including several local brews (although I opted for the Two Brewers Irish Stout, £2.40).