The Alma, Rochester

Down-to-earth Shepherd Neame local, standing out as a bit of a beacon in a post-industrial wasteland now transformed into various trading estates. Part opened out inside to leave a 'L'-shaped bar comprising a notional lounge with the sports TV at the front, a busy pool room to the side and a boothed seating area towards the rear. Sparse decor but brightly lit and tidily maintained. Just one of the three handpumps was in use, dispensing a decent pint of Master Brew (£3.10).

The Alma is an L shaped pub with two dartboards (one had seating on the oche), a pool table and two plasma screens for showing Sky Sports. The bar is stocked with standard draught products and three hand pumps are supported, but only Spitfire was available during my visit last Saturday afternoon. I found the manageress to be very friendly and the handful of locals sitting at the bar all seemed nice enough. The only food that I saw advertised was the Saturday breakfast which is served from 11:00 until 14:00 and rocks in at £3.50 which seems excellent value considering the ingredients listed. Out the back there is a small decked area with some picnic tables. Although it was quiet I liked it in here and would return if passing.