The Hop Pole Inn — Restaurant in Maidstone

Recently visited this pub and was very disappointed. It’s looking very tired and is need of a major facelift. I did notice the car park had recently been made over though. The TV was on and it’s volume was overpowering. We sat in the restaurant and felt it was a bit grubby and we had some antibac wipes so we used those to wipe the table and cutlery over. The dinner was cold and dry when it was served. The publicans knew the regulars and spent most of their time and attention making sure those tables were looked after and chatting to them. The pub was cold, although there was a fire but that was the other side of the bar. Wasn’t keen on a dog roaming around the restaurant either. Shame as it could...

The warmth of the welcome I received from staff at The Hop Pole Inn humbled me. Thanks for showing me round the pub. The inside of the pub doesn’t retain its original character, which is a shame. It is though decorated in interesting maps and stories. This free house offers traditional British dishes and I can happily report they are made with a modicum of care. That is all I can ask of any pub meal. The main course, the cod, was really flavoursome, the creamy sauce made it shine. Prices are bang on. There is a lovely garden out back, which unfortunately I couldn’t appreciate given the British weather that day. There’s also a man/woman cave out back that has is furnished with sofas, TV and a...

I visited this place for a friend, who wanted a photo of the mural on the pub's wall. Having taken the photos, I went inside and found a lively atmosphere, even though it was a Sunday lunchtime. I had a beer, a most refreshing IPA and just watched the patrons enjoying themselves. I gather the food orders were running a little late that day, but nobody really seemed to mind that much! If you find yourself around Nettlestead Green, do drop in. There is a gallery section at one end of the pub where you can discover the story of Warrant Officer Blumer, the Spitfire pilot depicted in the mural. I think you'll be glad...