Posted: 13th October 2015
Pub of the Week: 'Meet the Landlord' at The Bull Inn, Faversham
Your name and age: Sara Apps (a lady never tells her age…)
How long have you run your pub and what is your background in the business? My husband Martin and I have been at this pub for 18 years. Martin has always worked in pubs, and was at The Mechanics Arms for eight years before we took on The Bull. He also worked at lots of other pubs around the area. I originally studied interior design at college before deciding to join Martin in the pub trade.
The best thing about running a Shepherd Neame pub is? The social aspect of it. I’m originally from Lynsted and Martin is from Graveney, and we have always lived in the area, so we know lots of people who live round here, and have a big group of regulars. Because we are located slightly on the outskirts of the town centre, the pub has a real community atmosphere.
Why did you enter the pub business? I’m not actually a big drinker! I got into the pub business because I enjoy interacting with customers. We are lucky because we have been here so long, our customers have become friends. I always say that my job includes being a marriage guidance counsellor and social worker!
What’s the most memorable moment since you’ve been licensee? Definitely launching our charity music festival Gigs in the Garden last year. It was so successful it has become an annual event, and it raised more than £3,500 for Pilgrims Hospices this year. We take real pride in our fundraising activities at the pub. We have raised more than £7,000 for charity so far this year.
Any particular ales you wish to highlight? We have the new Spitfire Gold on the bar, which is proving really popular with customers.
The Bull Inn, Faversham is an historic pub just a few minutes’ walk from the centre of Faversham. It has two separate bars, each with an open fire. The pub has Sky Sports, with TV screens in both bars, and also outside in the beer garden. The pub has traditional pub games including darts and pool.
To find out more, visit the pub’s website, follow them on Facebook or give Sara and Martin a call on 01795 534 740.