The Angel, Gillingham

Redecorated, both inside and out. Goacher's Goldstar is now on permanantly, together with two changing ales. I had both Goldstar and Piston Broke from Box Steam brewery. Both were in top condition. Friendly bar staff and the locals like a natter and a bit of 'banter. Worth my visit.

Previously an GBG pub, The Angel is an old corner pub on the edge of Rainham town centre, knocked through into a single bar. It is lively and has a mixed clientele, although I think there had recently been an explosion, judging from the shrapnel embedded in the faces of those there on this occasion. It is quite scruffy, but in a lived-in, cosy sort of way. There is a pool table, and the pub frequently stages live music. The decor is interesting - paintings of a Devil and an Angel on the doors of the gents' and ladies' toilets contribute to a bit of a 1980s fantasy theme. The gents's Devil also serves to warn what lies behind that door. There were 3 ales on. I had a first-class pint of Skinner's Cornish Knocker, very well kept and most enjoyable. There was a strong smell of smoke drifting in from outside, but you can't blame the pub for that, I guess.A very friendly pub, well worth the walk from the station or stopping by if passing.