The Barn, Tunbridge Wells

Slightly strange place just off High St, but not very apparent apart from one sign. It is not clear how old the building actually is, being either very old made to look new or vice versa, featuring lots of oak beams, leaded glass etc. Fair-sized bar with large conservatory and shady beer garden adjacent; restaurant upstairs. A couple of draught ales from Shepherd Neame and Harvey's were on offer but sadly the sampled Harvey's was not in the best form.

The Barn is made up to have a slightly rustic barn feel, but I think that it is a little too modern to pull it off properly. That said there is nothing really wrong with this place as I enjoyed a pleasant enough stay as I tucked into a pint of Harveys Best. Master Brew was also available with the third hand pump being unused. The draught available was Asahi, Kronenburg, Oranjeboom, San Miguel, Carlsberg and Strongbow. There is a leaning towards standard Shepherd Neame drinks, but I am led to believe that this pub/restaurant is privately owned. I suppose that this is Kent and Shep Neame is the local brewer, it’s just a shame that they aren’t a little more adventurous. Food is served and this was one of the busier pubs during my Wednesday jaunt around Tunbridge Wells. There is a conservatory area that leads to a well maintained beer garden that overlooks the train tracks leading into the station. I’d have no problem popping back in here; it would be nice to see a decent ale on the bar though.