Never has a pub looked so uninviting.

If anyone accidentally walked past The Badger there is no way on earth they would think to themselves: “Ah great, a pub I’ll just pop in for a drink”.

Just so we’re clear, this New Ash Green watering hole must be the darkest, most unpleasant looking pub you will ever find.

Pop its name into Google and you’ll find some interesting insights – at best it is described as “a complete dive”, at worst it is “full of scum, coke heads, plastic gangsters, wannabe travellers, females that are slags feeding rats of children and the perfect place to get a black eye among the squaller” (sic).

So, how did I find it? I actually enjoyed my Friday evening visit.

I liked the leather and wood look and whilst the music was loud, you could still hear yourself speak – fairly retro tunes, The Animals, Rolling Stones, Faces, but I liked it.

The majority of locals sat round the bar, but it was easy enough to reach through and get served. The two bearded guys in jumpers were lost in conversation.

There were a number of builders who’d called in on their way home, or at least I assume they had, unless the dresscode in New Ash Green really is off the scale.

There are two dart boards and a pool table which all look as if they get a healthy amount of use.

I enjoyed my visit to the Badger. And in case you forget where you are, they’ve even got one in a glass box to remind you.

The Badger, The Row, The Centre, New Ash Green, DA3 8JB

Decor: *** Zero stars from the outside, but okay once you venture in

Atmosphere: **** Buzzing

Drink: *** Not a great choice of ale, but the basics are present

Price: ****  Not bad at all, £7.50 for a pint of Kronenbourg and a large glass of white

Staff: ****  Welcoming