The Walnut Tree, Sheerness

One of a pair of side-by-side pubs in a fairly remote location, which seems an odd arrangement (especially as they were a single unit previously)? Anyway, this one is smaller than the neighbouring Wheatsheaf inside, but probably has a larger beer garden. The side dining area has a rather dated feel, but all was tidy enough. Just Whitstable Bay Pale (£4.50) available from the solitary handpump, but that was an improvement from next door...

Well off the beaten track, this pub is the conjoined twin of The Wheatsheaf, next door. It looks like a country pub from the outside, though the atmosphere is rather different. There is a small amount of parking at the back and a large front gravelled garden with plenty of covered seating. When we arrived there was a noisy karaoke session in full swing outside, though it was quieter and more civilised inside. The staff were welcoming, the landlord seemed decent, and the clientele were a mixed bag, so from that point of view it did feel like a village local. The single small L-shaped bar is divided into cubicles by sheets of polythene taped to the fake ceiling beams, but hopefully this will disappear in time. There is wallpaper which fails to give the impression of real brickwork Only one ale on, Whistable Bay Pale Ale, which was in average condition. They offer Sunday roasts and occasional live music. Note they are closed Mondays and Tuesdays. A much better bet than the pubs on the nearby caravan ghetto.