The Coopers Arms, Rochester

An historic inn, on a site first mentioned in the Domesday Book, althought the present structure is considerably younger. In addition to the integral there is a very well kept garden with its own "garage bar". Recent renovations have uncovered fireplaces and various other nooks and crannies. The pub is reputably haunted, and I seem to remember from many years ago that there was a mummified monk found preserved in the walls, presumably the basis for stories about the pub's being haunted by a monk's ghost. It was a Style and Wynch house at one point but has been a free house for a while. Very good, reasonably priced food is on sale, and the beer range is, and has been for at least 30 years, of repute. Much of the reputation gained in the last 3 decades was as a result of Mick Hammel's efforts, but sadly the current owners have removed much of his presence. Six ales on this time, I had a pint of Theakstone's Hogshead which was in perfect condition. This is Rochester's best pub in many respects, and an essential one for visiting sale lovers. A GBG regular, it is a great place to spend an evening's libation, a lunch time snack or just an afternoon hiding from the wife.