Venturing into the seaside town of Herne Bay with a singular mission – to find a suitable establishment for watching the British Lions rugby match – proved to be an unexpected journey into local character and charm. My initial search led me past a picturesque wedding celebration, clearly not conducive to cheering on a sporting event, which quickly directed me across the street to the promising Four Fathoms.
Upon entering this Herne Bay pub, one is immediately struck by its surprising elegance, a contrast to the casual Saturday morning vibe outside. The exterior boasts vibrant hanging baskets, while inside, tastefully tiled floors and a generally smart ambiance suggest a recent, high-quality refurbishment, hinting at a new era for this historic watering hole.
The true heart of the Four Fathoms, however, revealed itself in the form of a formidable barmaid, described affectionately as a ‘mini ninja’. Dressed impeccably in black, she commanded the bar area with an undeniable presence, ensuring efficiency and order without uttering a single unnecessary word. Her direct, no-nonsense approach, coupled with addressing everyone as “babe” or “darling,” underscored her role as the undisputed driving force behind the pub’s smooth operation.
While the atmosphere and efficient service were highly commendable, the pricing reflected the establishment’s premium feel. A pint of Cruzcampo was £5.60, with Guinness a slight 10p more. However, the quality of the overall experience and the unique Herne Bay pub environment made these prices feel justified, contributing to the pub’s perceived value.
Beyond the main bar, the Four Fathoms boasts a generously sized games room, equipped with two large TV screens (though inactive during my visit), a pool table, a dartboard, and various arcade machines. This area, partially used for storage, seemed surprisingly quiet, possibly due to the intense focus on the rugby in the main bar or ongoing renovations to the outside garden area.
Adjacent to the main bar, a cozy “snug” area offers a quieter, more intimate space for patrons seeking a degree of privacy. This well-designed corner provides a welcome retreat from the main hustle, embodying the very essence suggested by its name, making it a perfect spot for more hushed conversations within this vibrant Herne Bay local pub.
A memorable interlude occurred at half-time when my shopping-adverse companion, Mrs. SD, returned only to be ‘convinced’ by the persuasive barmaid into purchasing the most expensive Sauvignon Blanc. My protests regarding both the price and the ironic antipodean origin, given the ongoing rugby match, fell on deaf ears, resulting in a £9.50 pour for the largest size available – a testament to the barmaid’s formidable sales skills and influence.
Numerous signs declaring a zero-tolerance drug policy are strategically placed throughout the establishment, a common sight in local pubs. Despite indications of substantial upgrades and a thriving atmosphere, it was surprising to learn the current owners took over two years ago. This suggests a concerted effort to rebuild the reputation and standing of this Herne Bay institution.
The Four Fathoms stands out as a prime example of a Herne Bay pub successfully blending traditional charm with modern management. From the impressive hanging baskets to the quality materials seen in areas like the window between the main bar and toilets, every detail points to a meticulous effort to enhance the pub experience. It’s clear the focus is on creating a welcoming and efficiently run environment for locals and visitors alike, solidifying its place among the best Kent eateries.
Leave a Reply