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The top 11 pubs nominated in the Kent & Medway Food & Drink Awards 2025

We asked, and you delivered – over the past few months, you have voted in your hundreds to name your favourite pubs in the Kent and Medway Food and Drink Awards 2025.

With even more nominations than last year, there’s a fantastic selection of village boozers, country taverns and high street watering holes to choose from. We’ll be announcing the three finalists soon but, for now, here are your top 11 pubs in the county, in alphabetical order…

We received hundreds of nominations for Pub of the Year in the Kent & Medway Food & Drink Awards 2025. Picture: iStock
We received hundreds of nominations for Pub of the Year in the Kent & Medway Food & Drink Awards 2025. Picture: iStock

1 THE BUCKS HEAD, near Sevenoaks

The Bucks Head in Godden Green is a dog-friendly pub owned and run by husband-and-wife duo, James and Hope. There’s a decent selection of real ales and the menu boasts venison, sirloin steak and pork belly.

2 THE FLYING HORSE, Smarden

This newly refurbished country haven is a Sheps pub with plenty of character. The Flyer, as it has been named by locals, has old oak beams and a cosy fireplace, and there’s a monthly pub quiz and live music.

3 THE GEORGE, Bethersden

With a selection of wine from Kent-based vineyards, regular guest ales, coffee and cake mornings and a hearty dinner menu, this pub has become the centre of the community. There are live events, including music, beer festivals and bingo nights.

4 THE HAMPTON INN, Herne Bay

This unique pub overlooks the coast and is, quite literally, the last building standing in Hampton-on-Sea. It’s a slice of peace and quiet on the seafront with beautiful views, Shepherd Neame beers and pub grub.

5 THE OAK ON THE GREEN, Bearsted

In the heart of Bearsted, near Maidstone, this bar is known for its country interior and extensive menu. The seasonal dishes include classics like haddock and chips and steak and ale pie, as well as flavourful fajitas and spicy jerk chicken.

The awards aim to celebrate the very best of Kent and Medway’s thriving hospitality industry. Photo: iStock
The awards aim to celebrate the very best of Kent and Medway’s thriving hospitality industry. Photo: iStock

6 THE PRINCE OF WALES, Hoath

This traditional village pub dates back to the early 20th century and has all the charm of an old-fashioned tavern, with exposed brick and fireplaces. It’s family-friendly, dog-friendly and does a great Sunday roast.

7 THE QUEEN’S HEAD, Kingsnorth

This pub made an appearance in last year’s Kent & Medway Food and Drink Awards as landlady Wendy was a runner-up in the Kent Hospitality Champion category. This year, the Queen’s Head, near Ashford, is back in the running for its 18th-century decor, great range of drinks and top-quality food.

8 THE QUEEN’S HEAD, Sutton Valence

Another boozer nominated for a second year in a row is the Queen’s Head in Sutton Valence, near Maidstone. Last year, this historic spot was named Pub of the Year thanks to its warm welcome and excellent customer service.

9 THE SAWYERS, Wye

This micropub showcases local breweries with drinks from Gadds, Hopdaemon, Curious Brewery and Henderson’s Cider. There’s also a decent wine list and spirits from Kent-based distilleries.

10 TAP 17, Headcorn

It might be small on the inside, but this charming micropub has a great beer garden out the back. There’s craft beer and real ale on offer, as well as wines, ciders and spirits.

11 WINGS BAR, Headcorn

This bar, found inside a converted airfield hanger at Headcorn Aerodrome, is known for its quirky location and friendly service. It’s also home to Bun Buddies, a gourmet burger truck that won Street Food / Pop-up of the Year in our 2024 awards.

The Kent & Medway Food & Drink Awards are presented by KM Media Group and sponsored by DDS International.

The Pub of the Year category is sponsored by Lumina Energy. With over a decade of expertise, Lumina Energy simplifies the complex world of energy contracts for small to medium-sized enterprises across the UK, saving your business time, money and energy.

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