Tunbridge Wells gastropub recognised among UK’s best

A gastropub in Royal Tunbridge Wells has been named among the UK’s Top 50 Gastropubs, earning national recognition in a list that celebrates the very best of modern British pub dining.

The Kentish Hare is the only venue from West Kent to feature in the Top 50 itself, placing Tunbridge Wells firmly on the national food map. The annual ranking is compiled by a panel of industry experts and highlights pubs that successfully combine high-quality food with a relaxed, traditional pub setting.

Judges assess venues on factors such as creativity, consistency, use of seasonal ingredients and the overall dining experience. Inclusion in the Top 50 is widely regarded as a significant achievement within the hospitality industry, reflecting sustained standards rather than a one-off success.

The recognition also underlines the growing reputation of Tunbridge Wells as a destination for refined yet approachable dining, where independent venues continue to attract attention well beyond the local area.

While The Kentish Hare stands out as the sole West Kent entry in the Top 50, the wider national list also features a pub from Sevenoaks further down the rankings, pointing to broader strength in the region’s food and drink scene without detracting from Tunbridge Wells’ top-tier accolade.

For local residents and visitors alike, the listing is a reminder that nationally recognised dining experiences can be found close to home.