To celebrate #NationalBeerDay, we’re raising a glass to Medway’s pub gardens! Whether your perfect pairing includes a glass of sparkling backdropped by a stretching riverside view, or a cold, crisp pint on a summer's day matched with a hearty plate of pub grub, Medway is sure to serve up the ideal menu for your tastebuds. From gardens hidden in cosy corners, to historic pubs with a story to share, we really do have it all! So what are you waiting for? Get the sun cream at the ready, and hop into the celebrations in the best possible way…
The Command House
Sitting on the waters edge, this traditional pub offers postcard-worthy panoramic views of the River Medway, and neighbouring Rochester. This is the perfect place to stop for a pint or a plateful, with beautiful scenery, hearty pub grub on the menu, and of course, a splendid drinks offering at the bar! Soak in the sunshine and watch the boats sail by with a tempting tipple in hand- an idyllic way to experience the serenity of this delightful slice of Medway.
The Robin Hood
Nothing says a British summer’s day like a traditional pub garden- and that’s exactly what’s on the menu at The Robin Hood in Chatham. Hidden within Blue Bell Hill’s woodland, this classic country pub is bursting with over 700 years of history, charm and character. Whether it’s snuggling up next to a roaring fire in the winter, or enjoying the sun outdoors with a refreshing beverage and BBQ in the summer, The Robin Hood is sure to offer a proper Kentish pub experience for the whole family to enjoy.
Ship and Trades
What else do you need after a stroll on a sunny afternoon? How about a refreshing glass (or two) in the Ship and Trades’ sun trapped deck? Naval heritage meets contemporary style at this gorgeous pub, which serves up a feast of treats alongside a range of local cask ales, world wines and international lagers. Kick back and relax whilst soaking in the views of the beautiful marina. If you’re fearful of drawing the short straw as designated driver, then why not pack your bags and make a weekend of it, by staying the night in one of the cosy hotel rooms.
© @TheGeorgeVaults
The George Vaults
Proudly voted ‘Best Pub Garden’ in the Rochester Food and Drink Awards 2021, The George Vaults is a much-loved treasure amongst visitors. Nestled in the heart of Rochester’s historic high-street, this contemporary brasserie boasts a beautiful, secluded courtyard, creating an idyllic setting for any occasion. Tantalise tastebuds with a mouth-watering dish from the menu, and choose your perfect pairing from the extensive drinks list. During your visit, be sure to head downstairs and explore the Grade II listed, 14th Century crypt that gives this fascinating gem its name!
Fenn Bell Inn
In the jungle the mighty jungle! If your Instagram feed has been left a little dull the past year, the Fenn Bell Inn is sure to provide the perfect backdrop for a social-media worthy snap. Not only does this country pub provide a mouth-watering menu, as well as serving a fantastic selection of beers and wines, it also doubles as a zoo, yes you heard right, a zoo! Sink your teeth into an indulgent meal before exploring the most-unique pub garden in the UK. With lemurs, meerkats, foxes and even binturong to see, your camera will never fall too far from your hands when visiting here.
*Please note that due to flooding the inside of the restaurant is currently closed, so the pub is only offering outdoor service.
Tudor Rose
Tucked within the quaint, cobbled streets of Upnor, The Tudor Rose pub provides a warm and welcoming environment for all visitors. Head to the garden where you can tempt tastebuds with a delicious dish from the menu, all freshly prepared on the premises. Tuck into the range of modern meals or traditional classics, while enjoying a crisp beverage in the sunshine. The pub is not only surrounded by a wealth of beauty, stretching views and picturesque places to marvel at, but also the chance to meet a quaking friend or two along the way with its resident ducks!
© @NewOpeningsMedway
The Ship
This picturesque village pub offers real ales, good food and great views of the River Medway. Head out the back and relax in the traditional pub garden, indulging in a tasty, and freshly prepared meal from the menu. Or dine out the front, sipping on a tempting tipple while delighting in the panoramic views of Upnor harbour. Watch as the sun sinks into the water, as you enjoy a glass of your favourite tipple on the terrace.
© 10:50 From Victoria
10:50 from Victoria
They say good things come in small packages, and the 10:50 from Victoria micropub is no exception the rule. If you’re not familiar with the term ‘micropub’ then you must have been living under a rock for the past 10 years, but we’re here to fill you in. There’s really not a lot to it, it’s just a very small, normally one roomed pub, and the 10:50 from Victoria stands proudly as Strood’s first. This quaint gem offers a friendly atmosphere, a locally-sourced drinks menu and a tranquil outdoor space that seats over 100 guests- it truly is a Tardis. So, if you’re searching for somewhere a little eccentric to celebrate, there’s no better place to raise a glass!
Rochester Castle
Ye Arrow
Hello scenery! We’re sure you’ve come across this gorgeous pub before as it’s quite hard to miss (to say the least). Situated in between the sixth-oldest castle in the world (Rochester Castle), and a religious structure that has been a place of Christian worship since AD604 (Rochester Cathedral), Ye Arrow has a pretty impressive resume’ under its belt. Visitors can relax and unwind whilst taking in the views from the beer garden, which provides the perfect viewing point. If visiting during the weekend, the pub hosts a variety of live music, so you can admire the views accompanied with a soundtrack!
