Harvester The Rising Sun, Dartford

The Rising Sun is a large pub that now operates under the crap Harvester banner. The front door was out of use so it was through the entrance to the right which faces Devonshire Road. Once inside it has the usual Harvester format of banning drinkers from a part of the pub and giving diners the other area of the large single room,i was allowed into the right side which is oblong shaped with tall tables and chairs near the bar,there is a slight raised area which has bench seating and chairs and is carpeted,the front left side it set aside for diners. To my surprise there were two real ales on,i had a drink of Sharps Atlantic which was a decent enough drink,the other real ale was Doom Bar. Background music was playing. One of the best Harvesters i have visited.

Official site of Rising Sun - www.harvester.co.uk

Official site of Rising Sun - www.harvester.co.uk

Since becoming part of the Harvester chain, every element of the pub's original guise has been eroded to the point that there is now not even a sign declaring the pub name. The interior has been extensively refurbished and will satisfy the demands of designer decor fans but traditionalists will rue the lack of any original features or character. The pub is divided by sevral wooden screens that look like they have come straight from the B&Q timber yard and the overall colour scheme and modern prints lean more towards a trendy art gallery than a cosy pub. The beer selection is disappointing with no Real Ales on offer. Food is obviously the usual Harvester restaurant range which geneally means good value and plentiful portions. Being a family orientated restaurant, you an expect hordes of children running around the bar or screaming because they don't like carrots. The bottom line is that it is OK for a meal and Harvester regulars will know what to expect. As a pub though, I wouldn't pay it too much attention.