The Penny Theatre, Canterbury

Now very much a student bar. It’s cheap and cheerful, loud and garish, and people over the age of 25 are considered elderly enough to be ignored or at least derided – yes we do know how to use smartphones and touch-and-go payment cards. They do offer brunches though, so are useful from that perspective. Much of the background noise came from live football on the TV screens, the rest from student activity. Only one real ale on, Doombar, plus various fruit ciders, and nasty cocktails, so it’s certainly not a great ale pub. It has its place.

Stonegate pub created from two adjoining buildings in different styles (but both quite old), although the whole place has been comprehensively modernised and extended down a couple of steps at the back. Just Doom Bar (£3.90) from a trio of handpumps, but the numbered but otherwise anonymous keg taps offer some 'craft' beers from the likes of BrewDog, Beavertown and Camden, and five Lilley's ciders are also available.

Official site of The Penny Theatre - www.stonegatepubs.com

Official site of The Penny Theatre - www.stonegatepubs.com