New Management, Refurbishments, and Openings (Updated)
The Powell Arms, Birchington.
The Powell Arms in Birchington has re-opened after a refurbishment with new owners Dhvani Patel and Byan Hayter. Its quality decor is much similar to what was there previously and is of a contemporary feel mixed with the more traditional. Dried hop vines drape an overhead beam and a variety of seating is available including outdoor seating to front which is excellent for Summer drinking.
Like many pubs it is named after an historic figure, however one can imagine that the gentleman landowner after who the pub is named may be slightly perturbed by this as it uses only half his surname, or does it? His name was John Powell-Powell, and he was responsible for creating the current Quex House and surrounding parkland which is nearby.
WhatPub: https://whatpub.com/pubs/THA/069/powell-birchington-on-sea
The Crown Inn, Sarre.
Recently closed for refurbishment is the Crown Inn at Sarre.
This Shpherd Neame pub was run by long time tenants Clive and Penelope who have now retired. The pub is Grade 2 listed and has featured in CAMRA’s Good Beer Guide eight times. Clive said he understands that the pub will now be directly managed by Shepherd Neame. It does have spacious dining areas and a large car park to the rear so it can be speculated that Sheps will make the most of this.
No serious work has yet started and it is noted that its car park has concrete barricades in place to prevent any vehicles entering. Aside from real ale, the pub was also famous for selling a sweet French cherry brandy.
Updated 18th March 2023: The pub is re-opening on Friday 24 March at 5pm. The new landlords are Emma and Derek Simms who are the new tenants. The opening will be accompanied by a free buffet, though the restaurant will not open until sometime in April. CAMRA members are especially welcome.
WhatPub: https://whatpub.com/pubs/THA/026/crown-inn-sarre
San Clu Hotel, Ramsgate.
Now re-opened after refurbishment is the San Clu Hotel, which previously was the Comfort Inn Ramsgate featuring the San Clu Bar. It is no longer under the Comfort Inn franchise but run independently by sisters Hema and Rina.
Originally in the late 1800s the hotel's name was Hotel St Cloud. St Cloud being pronounced the French way “San Clu”. However most people pronounced it the English way which the then owner didn't like, hence the hotel was renamed San Clu. It has great views of the sea from both inside and from the garden. The bar has two real ales and non-residents are always welcome.
WhatPub: https://whatpub.com/pubs/THA/024/comfort-inn-ramsgate-san-clu-bar-ramsgate
Published: 15th March 2023.
Updated 18th March 2023.