WATERSIDE PUB REOPENS AFTER £1.5 MILLION TRANSFORMATION

Waterside pub The Wharf in Dartford’s Crossways has reopened following a £1.5 million transformation by Shepherd Neame.

A new wrap around terrace has been added to take advantage of the pub’s stunning location overlooking Cotton Lake. A new outside bar has been added, and its large garden has been fully landscaped with new plants, furniture and lighting.

Inside, The Wharf’s layout has been reconfigured to create a more spacious, open feel, including removing a mezzanine dining area near its entrance and reconfiguring the bar area. The kitchen now has an open pass, allowing customers to watch the team at work and speed up the delivery of food.

The lower floor which was previously used for dining has been transformed into a function space for corporate or private use. The pub has also been redecorated throughout, with stylish new décor and lighting creating a comfortable yet contemporary feel. A new bespoke external swing sign has also been created.

Work started back in January, but was suspended in March due to the impact of the pandemic, before contractors began again in July. Shepherd Neame’s team amended their designs to take social distancing requirements into account and ensure that the pub was Covid-19 secure, with protective screens and sanitiser stations installed and the furniture layout changed to create more space. Customers are asked to follow a one-way system through the pub, and extensive safety signage is in place.

To coincide with the pub’s new look, a delicious new food menu has been introduced. Customers can choose from a range of traditional pub classics, along with a selection of sharing platters and small plates. Ingredients are sourced locally wherever possible, and all tastes are catered for, with a delicious range of vegetarian and vegan dishes available.

The drinks offer has also been refreshed, with an extensive range of beer and cider on draught and in bottle, along with a choice selection of premium wines and spirits and cocktails. A full hot drinks menu is also available throughout the day and evening.

Manager Marc Watson has been at the pub with wife Tracy for more than 20 years. He said: “We are absolutely overwhelmed by The Wharf’s new look. This investment has completely transformed the site and allowed us to make the most of our unique waterside location. We have already received an amazing amount of positive feedback from customers and hope that this refurbishment will encourage more people to visit and discover our fantastic offer.”

Shepherd Neame Chief Executive Jonathan Neame said: “We are incredibly proud of this project, which represents a significant investment not just in The Wharf, but the local area, supporting local suppliers and contractors. During these challenging times our priority is to protect our team members and customers, while continuing to offer an authentic and engaging experience in distinctive and individual pub environments. We are confident that with its unique location, stylish new look and premium food and drink offer, The Wharf will prove a popular destination for customers from across Kent and farther afield.”

The Wharf is open from 11am to 11pm Monday to Thursday, 11am to midnight on Friday and Saturday, and 12 noon to 10.30pm on Sunday.

Find out more at www.wharfcrossways.co.uk or call 01322 229939.