CAMPAIGN FOR REAL ALE

KENT - Coldred, Carpenters Arms

National Inventory of Historic Pub Interiors Part One

The Green, Coldred, Kent, CT15 5AJ

Tel: 01304 830190

Listed Status: Not listed

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A rare survivor - an intact 1960s refit and still a basic drinkers pub. In 1965 Fremlins doubled the size of the bar by way of a flat roof extension which also brought the toilets inside and this simple two roomed pub has not changed since. Licensee Daphne Fagg (91) has been in charge for 40 years, the pub having been in her family since 1912. From the front door go down three steps into the small carpeted Public Bar which has a 1965 bar counter with formica panelled front and Formica top, a utilitarian 1960s bar back with ‘Fremlins’ illuminated panel at the top, glass shelves in the top part and below it Formica covered shelving and a drawer for a till. The 1930s looking brick fireplace is also from 1965 says Mrs Fagg and there is two sections of 60s fixed seating and a baffle by the door. The small carpet tiled Saloon Bar on the left is accessed by a door from the bar and it also has an exterior door where you go down 4 steps. The room is almost wedge-shaped with a long bar counter set at an angle; this has the bar back of the Public Bar with its ‘lumpy’ glass back panel on top of the right hand part, it has a Formica front and top, also a pair of handpumps which have CO2 dispensers fitted to them. The Saloon Bar bar back is almost identical to the public bar one with a Fremlins illuminated panel etc. and there is another 1960's fireplace, leatherette cushioned fixed seating and classic 60's small low Formica top tables. Note the classic 1960's louvres near the door and a tea chest base for a skiffle band which is used every Sat night. In the garden there is an outside i.e. open to the elements skittle alley (the pub has three teams) with one covered side. The alley is of concrete and has a camber with a difference of 2 inches between the top and sides. The Dover District Skittles summer league has three divisions for men (Sunday evenings) and women (Wed eves). In view of Daphne's age a visit is recommend soon. Open 11 to 2.30 if anyone around; 6.30 (poss later) to 11 so it is best to ring prior to a visit. Has up to three mainly Kent micro brewery beers served from casks on top of the bar; no draught lager!