Harps Inn, Sheerness

Substantial, roadhouse-style pub on the once busy main road leading to the eastern Sheppey holiday parks, etc. However, this one looks far from rundown inside, with a refurbished layout that has been opened out somewhat from the original multi-room arrangement but which still retains a number of distinct seating / dining areas, pool table, etc. Rear beer garden. It features a pair of handpumps on the counter, and not only were they both on, offering Doom Bar and Landlord, but my pint of the latter (£4.40) was surprisingly good.

This busy roadside pub consists of a large white rendered 1930s (?) house in its own grounds which include a car park. The single large bar is informally demarcated by the supporting pillars. One area contains a pool table, the rest is mostly carpeted and occupied by tables and chairs. It could be cosy despite its size, but the sound system is far too noisy for comfort, as are the humanoids whose puerile drivel pollutes the soundscape. There is a medium sized garden at the back which provides welcome relief from the din. The pub has been nicely redecorated, and the young staff are dizzy and cheerful. The beer lets the pub down badly – the only ale on was Doombar which was hideously overgassed and tasted like cream soda. Probably OK for a pitstop on the way across the island, but I wouldn't want to spend an evening here.

During my recent weeknight visit to the Harps Inn the two hand pumps supported by the bar were drawing Tribute and Doom Bar. A standard draught selection was also available and food is served daily until 21:00. I found the staff to be very friendly and I got the feeling that this is a family pub. At the rear is a large dining area and at the front of the pub are a pool table and dartboard that were both being used by some locals. There was some background music playing and I don't recall seeing any television screens. I would have no problem popping back in here for a pint if passing.