The Duke of Cumberland, Whitstable

This interesting landmark building at the north end of the High Street was given £1.8 million refurbishment by Shepherd Neame in 2023. The bar looks much smarter now, and the back room has been restored as an upmarket dining room that benefits from a rooflight. Hotel accommodation is also offered again after quite a break. We found Master Brew and Bishops Finger available from two of the four handpumps, with Spitfire coming next.

Laid out as described by Roger, below, though not run as well nowadays. It was quite scruffy and chaotic when we visited, and we didn’t feel at all welcome. The young staff were pretty offhand with us. Worst, there was no real ale on and no decent cider, so megakeg was the only option. I’m not tempted to return.