The New Drum, Tonbridge

Great little back street pub of the type not often found anymore, ideal for anyone sick of'McPubs', the glorified canteens which all look the same, sound the same and where the staff all use the same lines which are written on the cue cards behind the till, because they are not paid enough to use up valuable independent thought - "Would you like to order food with that sir? Do you have your table number Sir? Blah Blah Blah Sir..............."

Not so in The Drum, a family run pub where Tony, his wife Pauline & son Matt know the art of making people feel welcome by always having the time for a chat with the regulars (especially Pauline!).

The beer is fine, and probably among the cheapest available in the town (excluding the plastic McPubs). Matt has a fine range of home prepared rolls which are very reasonably priced at �1 a go.

The regulars are a mixed bunch, ranging from surly downtrodden office workers & hairy arsed builders to stockbrokers and medical professionals - all are generally affable, genial types who will talk to anyone who buys them a drink or two..........

It's also a top pub for sports, with 2 large plasma screens, a smaller screen at one end of the bar and, for big events in good weather, even a large screen set up in a marquee in the garden! Be aware that the pub has a great reputation locally as a good venue for watching sports, you will need to arrive early to get the best seats!

The pub holds a quiz every Sunday at 8:30pm, hosted by Bill Johnson, �1 to enter, all welcome, winner takes all. It also has all the traditional pub stuff, such as the Tote and Bus Stop etc.

Matt runs a flourishing golf society, playing many of the best local courses throughout the season, which always leads to some banter and bitching about handicaps at the Trophy Awards in the evening.

In summary, it's a good little boozer for a few beers in the evening. If you have never tried it, pop in and give it a go, you can buy me a lager!

8 Jun 2005 12:53