The Dering Arms

Follow signs to Pluckley Station to locate this imposing-looking pub. Built as a hunting lodge in 1840 for the Dering family, this handsome building boasts curving Dutch gables, rounded triple lancet 'Dering' windows, and a rather spooky grandeur. The interior is all high ceilings, flagstone and board floors, open log fires, oak panelling, and there's a family room with a baby grand piano (there to be played). The extensive daily menus reflect the chef's love of fresh fish and seafood, as in starters of Provençale fish soup, sardines grilled with rosemary butter, and garlic king prawns. In addition to Jim's seafood special for two people - a platter overflowing with traditional fruits de mer, there's confit duck with bubble-and-squeak, and rib-eye steak with black pepper, brandy and cream. There is a classic car meet on the second Sunday of the month.