The Wheatsheaf, Edenbridge

Appealing L-shaped brick and tile hung farmhouse style pub , up some steps from the car park.The front door opens into a beamed and pannelled double height bar with inglenook and open fire.To either side, and upstairs,a warren nooks and crannies laid up for dining. An intriguing feature is the minstrel's gallery overlooking the bar, used as a discreet dining room. On our Sunday afternoon visit, hours before the December snow, the central heating was playing up, but hey, we're hardy souls in Kent.As noted above, this is largely food led,but the bar (which is dog friendly) was host to a fair complement of drinkers. Not far from Chiddingstone,I was glad to see three beers from Larkins, as well as a couple from Westerham. Of particular interest was the iconic seasonal Larkins' Porter, a beer which I too rarely see. I failed to note the keg offerings, but I remember seeing a number of craft beers,alongside the usual offerings. Our meals were tasty, if typically priced for West Kent, and the service relaxed and charming.

Attractive pub right by the dodgy 90° bends where the B2027 crosses over the railway line, but this was here centuries before the new-fangled trains started running. With tile-hanging at first-floor level, this epitomises the local vernacular building style, as do the exposed beams in the multi-room interior. The small hall-like bar area can be found in the centre, with an imposing fireplace being put to good use on a cool autumn day. Various smart dining areas can be found on either side of this, all retaining a lot of character. Good beer too, with the local Larkins Traditional (£3.95) and two from nearby Westerham - Summer Perle and Spirit of Kent - in addition to the compulsory Harvey's from four of the five handpumps. With a pleasant beer garden as well, this one is worth seeking out.

Official site of The Wheatsheaf - www.wheatsheafboughbeech.co.uk

Official site of The Wheatsheaf - www.wheatsheafboughbeech.co.uk