The Compasses - Pubs In Tunbridge Wells - Country Pubs In Kent

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The Compasses - Pubs In Tunbridge Wells - Country Pubs In Kent

A blackboard over the bar claims 'The Compasses' to be the oldest pub in Tunbridge Wells. Dating from about 1640 its name derives from the siting of the pub as the meeting point of three main coaching routes through the town.

It is easy to imagine the Reverend John Wesley in the late 18th century making his way up to the original pub from his blue-plaqued Methodist Meeting House a little way down the lane. Situated in Little Mount Sion the pub is only a short, albeit steep, walk from the historical Pantiles area, which celebrates Regency life in Tunbridge Wells. The original source of the healing waters is still there to sample, although as an acquired taste many visitors prefer to stick to viewing the local range of interesting shops.

The Compasses four bars are attractively decorated and furnished, with plenty of stripped floorboards and upright beams worn smooth by countless customers. There are several open fires, whilst historical local prints, some stained-glass windows and interesting arty objects complete the homely air. The lighting is quite subdued with art-nouveau lampshades, giving the whole place quite a country feel, as opposed to its town centre location.

The pub is part of the Laurel Pub Company, based in Luton, with several hundred outlets including traditional locals and metropolitan bars, spread throughout the UK.

Behind the bar there are contributions from Abbott Ales, Timothy Taylor, Fullers and Wells, whilst Stella Artois and Carlsberg supply the lagers. There is also another plaque by the bar from the Cask Marque organisation, which rewards 'excellence in cask ale' and has been approved by CAMRA. It certainly demonstrates the landlord's skill in maintaining a well-conditioned cellar.

The menu ranges from snacks to main course meals, with examples including a variety of hot baguettes and wraps, served with roast potatoes and dunking gravy at £4.95. The main-course menu has offerings like Steak and Ale Pie at £6.75, and Spinach and Mixed Mushroom Cannelloni at £5.95. Sweets include Apple and Blackberry Crumble with Jersey Ice-cream and Chocolate Fudge Cake, both at £2.95. Service is efficient, employing numbered tables and ordering at the bar. The pub takes credit cards.

A small, enclosed beer garden is located at the rear of the premises, however as the pub backs on to a tree shaded park, appropriately called The Grove, summertime drinking on the grass must be particularly enjoyable.

Although chart music was playing during my lunchtime visit it was very low key and didn't spoil the atmosphere. By all accounts the pub is generally fairly quiet during lunchtimes in the week, but can become a homing ground for louder, younger types on Friday and Saturday night. Parking in front of the pub and local street parking is quite limited, however there is a pay-and-display car park a few yards further down the road.

This is a thoroughly enjoyable value-for money pub, well located to take a break from the sight seeing attractions of The Pantiles. Foodies may not find the menu adventurous enough, but should be more than compensated by the best fish-and-chip shop in Tunbridge Wells located directly opposite!

You'll find the Compasses at:

45 Little Mount Zion
Tunbridge Wells
01892 530744

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