1. Head to the beach - Minnis Bay
Minnis Bay is a beautiful Kentish blue flag beach with golden sands and stunning sunsets. Overlooking the beach is the Minnis Bay Bar and Brasserie, the perfect beach retreat for a refreshing pint and a dish of speciality local seafood. It also has a kiosk for beach essentials and ice cream – including our new doggy ice cream form your hungry pooch!
2. Explore the capital – Mabels
London’s calling, and the capital is full of things to keep you busy over the Bank Holiday weekend. If you’re arriving into Euston, St Pancras or Kings Cross make sure you stop off in this traditional friendly alehouse on your way in, or out for a pint or two – just don’t miss your train!
3. Relax in a gorgeous garden – George and Dragon, Ightham
A truly historic setting for a drink or two, this characterful pub is rumoured to have hosted Queen Elizabeth 1 for a night over 400 years ago. Whilst the inside of the pub is cosy and quaint with antique fireplaces and wooden beams, the garden has been recently refurnished, with a stunning terrace area for al fresco drinking and dining.
4. Take a walk in the country – Red Lion
Take a walk through the English countryside, along sandy paths and forest tracks and take in the view across the South Downs with one of Shepherd Neame’s pub walks. This 5.5 mile route was the winner of our Pub Walks competition, submitted by Thomas Parkhouse. It starts and finishes at the Red Lion, Chelwood Gate and the map can be downloaded here.
5. Go to the zoo – Fenn Bell
How many pubs can also boast a fully licensed zoo? The Fenn Bell Conservation Project is Medway’s only zoo, and is home to meercats, lemurs and bintarongs amongst other animals, many of which are rescued from the pet trade. As well as a number of animal experiences, you can also be a keeper for a day to get up close and personal!
The pub itself is currently closed for refurbishment, but is still offering a range of food and drink served to the large outdoor seating areas.
6. Cycle the Viking Coastal trail – Belle Vue
If you fancy getting out on your bike this Bank Holiday weekend, the Viking Coastal trail has plenty to offer. This circular 32 mile route takes in some of Kent’s most stunning coastline, and there’s no shortage of places along the way to stop and refuel with a pint!
The Belle Vue Tavern at Ramsgate offers some of the best sea views in Kent - across Pegwell Bay and out to The Channel. Choose from the outdoor terrace or the covered dining room to take a well-earned cycle break.
7. Enjoy a late lunch – Caxton Arms
There’s so much to do in Brighton, whether it’s exploring The Lanes or thrill seeking on the Pier, that it’s easy to lose track of time. If that happens don’t worry, the Caxton Arms serves food all day, until 6pm on Sunday and 9pm all other days. This friendly pub is tucked away down a backstreet and is a real hidden gem, with a pretty courtyard garden and the city’s only bar billiards table, as well as 50 gins to choose from – perfect after a long day shopping.
8. Meet your friends for cocktails – Rose in June
The Rose in June Margate is a gem of a pub offering a unique vibe and outside space on a historic Margate square next to the sea, perfect for people watching.
And, on top of all their aesthetic coolness, they also have a pretty special summer drinks menu.
Designed by artist Rose Blake (daughter of the legendary Sir Peter Blake), the menu features licensee Deke’s amazing cocktail creations, such as Blood Orange Manhattans, Cardamom G&Ts and Rhubarb and Ginger Spritzes. They taste as delicious as they sound.
If you’re heading to the Kent coast, seek out this fantastic pub, you won’t regret it.
9. Go and watch some live music – Market House
If you’ve been missing live music during lockdown, the Market House in Maidstone has got you covered. With a band on Friday, Saturday and Sunday of the Bank Holiday weekend, there’s something for everyone whether you’re into indie, rock, pop or just some good old fashioned covers.
10. Have a BBQ at home
Maybe you’re planning on staying in over the weekend and enjoying a barbecue in your own garden – in which case let us supply the beers! We’ve got something for everyone, whether you’re a classic ale drinker or prefer a lager, stout or cider. We’ve even got the non-drinkers covered with our Noughty Bear 0.5% IPA. Visit our shop in Faversham or online today.
Bonus number 11: We know it's still August, but it's not too early to be making plans for the next Bank Holiday - Christmas! Bookings for the festive season are open now.