Fields, Allington, Maidstone

As mentioned below this is a Marston’s pub which feels very artificial from the moment you arrive, mainly due to the electric car charging points in the car park, garishly coloured children’s play apparatus and astroturf ‘lawn’ at the front. There is a covered smoking area and seating at the front, but the traffic noise means it’s not a terribly enjoyable place to sit. There are gaming machines and TV screens inside, dog treats on the bar and the usual table seating arrangements making it primarily aimed at diners. The young staff were sort of trying to be helpful but were quite disrespectful in effect. Hobgoblin Gold was the solitary cask ale on, the other two handpumps being dry and unclipped. The keg range was Estrella, San Miguel, Cruzcampo, Inch’s Riverside Cider, Old Mout, Moretti, Carlsberg and Guinness. A convenient stop on the A20, but not a destination of choice, and I wouldn’t bother coming here for an evening’s drinking.

Goes through good and bad phases. Currently going through a terrible spell. Reports on the local Facebook group of sewer smell, rude staff, not being allowed to buy even just a drink. Shame, as I’ve never had a bad meal. Maybe it will bounce back again, but if you want a pub experience look elsewhere for now.

Official site of Fields - www.fieldsaylesford.co.uk

Official site of Fields - www.fieldsaylesford.co.uk