The Early Bird, Maidstone

Official site of The Early Bird - www.earlybirdgrovegreen.co.uk

Official site of The Early Bird - www.earlybirdgrovegreen.co.uk

A modern estate pub, currently run by Shepherd and Neame, built in the style of a Kentish oast, the interior is well described by JAQPTIO. There is a small functional garden, but you can’t get away from the fact that the pub is part of the complex that includes Tesco. The staff were friendly enough, charming even. It didn’t really have a local feel, and most of the customers appeared to be shoppers. Food looked unappealing, but it was reasonably priced. There was only one ale on, Masterbrew, which was in very poor condition. Worth a pitstop if going to the supermarket but there are better pubs nearby.

Modern Shepherd Neame pub in the style of a traditional Kentish oasthouse. Various seating areas around the 'L'-shaped bar in the barn-like main structure, with the Kentish Kitchen dining room and a pool table in the lower part of the roundel with a separate room available for parties above. Semi-modern furniture and decor, a silent sports TV and music at background level. Also has an upstairs function room and a side patio beer garden. Regular live music and quiz advertised. Disappointingly, just Master Brew (£3.30) and the guest St Austell Trelawney available from two banks of three handpumps.