Not ready for the weekend to be over?
Us neither.
We’ve rounded up the greatest pubs to visit this weekend, or next, or any day you like.
TripAdvisor reviewers seem to love these popular pubs and as we enter spring, what better place to be than a pub garden?
In no particular order, here are the top five greatest pubs dotted around Dartford:
1. Bird in Hand
Location: 242-244 Dartford Road, Dartford DA1 3EY
Rated travellers choice on TripAdvisor in 2021, the Bird in Hand pub is a top location for Dartford pub go-ers.
The pub appeals to everyone – with quiz nights, charity fundraisers and a grand food menu with takeaway options available.
One reviewer called it a “great local pub” with “lovely” staff.
They added: “Myself and my partner have only just recently moved to the area but due to the lockdown we couldn’t go out anywhere.
“As soon as this place opened back up, we thought why not give it a visit.”
“The food was lovely and they did some of the best chips we both have ever had.
“The staff were very welcoming and friendly with the added bonus of there being a pub dog.”
Another said the Bird in Hand is a “fantastic and friendly pub with the best fish and chips.”
2. The Rose
Location: 36 Overy Street, Dartford DA1 1UP
The Rose is a five minute walk from Dartford station and features a newly refurbished design.
The pub serves traditional homemade food and features a large beer garden - great for sunny evenings.
A reviewer said: “I have just been to The Rose for our Aquafit Christmas lunch.
“The food was delicious, perfectly cooked sea bass.
“Staff lovely and service brilliant.
“Highly recommend.”
Another said the cooks were the “star of the show”.
He added: “Absolutely fantastic food – delicious and great value for money.
“It sells perfect, no nonsense tasty food that is cooked to perfection.
“It has a beautiful garden and really helpful staff.
“You must try the Sunday roast - the pub locals are a friendly bunch helping to achieve a warm atmosphere, but the cooks are the star of the show.
“I can't wait to go back.”
3. The Jolly Miller
Location: 1 East Hill South Darenth, Dartford DA4 9AN
The Jolly Miller is a traditional pub found in the heart of Dartford.
Customers can expect to see a delicious food menu – including sandwiches, sharing platters, nibbles and much more.
From Midday to 8pm, The Jolly Miller offers a ‘beer and a burger’ deal from £8.49.
One TripAdvisor reviewer said: “Popped in for a quick bite to eat.
“Chef came out to make sure if I had any allergies.
“Ordered prawn sandwich, asked for Marie rose sauce.
“Arrived on time and tasted really good.
“Beer is great, and they had a wide selection.
“Staff friendly, and regulars are polite and friendly.
“Fantastic village pub.”
Another said the pub hosts a “delicious” Sunday lunch.
4. Ivy Leaf
Location: 72 Darenth Road, Dartford DA1 1LS
Ivy Leaf is currently rated number 51 out of all restaurants across Dartford.
The pub sources local Real Ale, and is said to have a “great atmosphere with great food.”
Ivy Leaf hosts regular quiz nights, open mic nights and local bands often play at this popular pub.
A reviewer said: “Came here with Sutton United for a few drinks before our FA Cup game at Dartford, really welcoming and a lovely place, plus they put the football on the TV for us.
“Reasonable prices as well, the perfect place for away fans before a game.”
Another said: “A really friendly pub with welcoming atmosphere and a landlord who greets you with a smile.
“He also knows his beers.
“Great pub and superb real ales.”
One other reviewer said: “Always a good pint in the Ivy and always friendly and welcoming.
“Live music is always good too.”
5. Wig & Gown
Location: Spital Street, Dartford DA1 2DX
This public house is a small family run business, with homemade cooked food that is prepared on site.
Wig & Gown hosts events great for everyone, even a psychic night that is currently being held every two weeks.
As well as a wonderful menu of alcoholic drinks, the pub sells a selection of freshly ground coffee – perfect for those early morning strolls.
A reviewer said the Wig and Gown sell “great food” at a “great price”.
Another said she attended a meal with 20 other people and was “absolutely amazed” at the meals.
She added: “The staff were lovely. “I’d consider that our group to be real ‘foodies’, but boy, did they have a lovely hot filling and tasty meals.
“As for the knickerbocker Glories on the desserts... my eyes popped out.
“An excellent choice of food and you won’t come out hungry.
“The staff were delightful, and I wish them well in this tiresome economic period that we are going through.”
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