The Bell, Gillingham

Dating from around 1750, The Bell may previously have been called The Bluebell. It's a substantial village pub just outside Gillingham's sprawl, easy to walk to from the Parkwood and Wigmore estates but still just about rural. In recent years the building has been opened out to provide more bar space and less character. There is a large car park and garden at the rear. Previously owned by Courage, it's now a freehouse. The front bar is pretty much as it originally was, although now the decor is very unexciting. The back bar and eating areas are relatively new. There is an open fire (not an original feature), gaming machines to spoil the ambiance further, over-priced bar snacks and cliched, annoying muzak. The food is of average quality and the staff are unfriendly. There were 3 ales on - I had M&B Mild which tasted slightly odd - rather nuttier than it should have been - but it was still drinkable. It's fine if you're in the area and thirsty, but I don't see my making the effort to come too often.