The Poet, Tonbridge

A traditional Kentish style village pub in the centre of the village, formerly known, I think, as The Standing’s Cross. As so often the case, this pub has followed the gastro route, to good, if pricey effect. We came for a family celebration on a midweek evening in August. Inside, a seeming warren of little rooms, most laid up for dining, furnished in an eclectic manner, with old maps and articles of interest, including memorabilia of the eponymous Poet, Siegfried Sassoon, who was “brought up round here”.We sat at the back, in part of the pub that had been a bakery. Oak beams, nice bricks and tilework on the floor. On the side facing the street there’s a light and airy bar with comfy chairs and sofas, together with more tables for dining. On our visit, a group of prosperous looking chaps were enjoying a beer at the bar:Rustic from the nearby Tonbridge Brewery and Red Top from Old Brewery were on excellent form that night,alongside various lagers and keg offerings. Wiser heads than mine enthused about the wine list. Music and poker nights were advertised: I would suggest that The Poet attracts a well- bottomed trade. A grand place for a celebration, though if we lived over this way and fancied a beer and a bite, we’d probably find our way to the Halfway House at Brenchley.

Official site of the Poet with menu and event details - www.thepoetatmatfield.co.uk

Official site of the Poet with menu and event details - www.thepoetatmatfield.co.uk