The Skull Bar, Maidstone

Can't say I like the branding, but this bar and grill inside the Royal Star Arcade is a bit more conventional than one might expect. Yes it has a music-themed Gothic interior but that doesn't feel oppressive, and there are several tables under the high glazed roof out front. Also has a pool table. No cask ale, but the modest selection of beers and a cider from the keg taps is more crafty than mainstream, and I went for Under the Sun from Wild Beer (£6.80).