Prince of Ales, Gillingham

Official site of Prince of Ales - www.princeofales.co.uk

A former shop which until recently was used by the Post Office next door, this micro opened on 12 Mar 16. It consists of a single bar with fixed wooden tables and chairs, and there is a tiny yard at the back for smokers. The floor is also new wooden flooring. No bar counter, just a cellar room with windows so you can see the stillage. No food apart from crisps, though there is an intention to introduce sandwiches later. There are no electronic distractions, apart from WiFi, and no plans to introduce any. Dogs and children are not permitted. Five ales on gravity at any one time, I had pints of Goacher's Fine Light Ale, Best Dark Ale and House Ale, plus Nelson's IPA, Spitting Feathers's Special Ale and Whitstable Oyster Stout. Two ciders were also on, but time didn't allow. All the ales were in perfect condition, the joint-landlords were extremely hospitable and the pub's first day was a tremendous success. An important addition to Rainham's real ale scene and one to which I shall certainly return, though it currently doesn't plan to open on Mondays.