The Kent pubs transformed to provide the perfect get-away

Forget avoiding pubs this January, there’s another way to prop up the bar without breaking your “new year, new me” mantra.

Savvy Airbnb’ers across the county have snapped up former inns and transformed them into trendy and at times luxurious places to stay, with guests given the chance to holiday in their very own tavern. Lock-in anyone?

The Queen Charlotte, Ramsgate

Those who have frequented the Queen Charlotte in Ramsgate will remember well its unique, community vibe, with amazing food pop-ups, large selection of craft beer, live music, art exhibitions and events.

But did you know that now, at weekends, people can rent out the whole three-bed townhouse and have the fully stocked pub - with honesty bar - to themselves?

Landlord Nigel Askew, who runs the place when it’s not been hired out, will even pop in to close up at the end of the night for you.

Inside has been curated with a quirky interior and vinyl collection with vintage Dansette’s and people can bring their own records, too. There’s also a modern stereo, of course.

Upstairs is a townhouse over two floors, including a full commercial kitchen, bathroom, three bedrooms and a living area which was previously used for pop-up dining and art exhibitions.

The pub is available for six people to stay.

To book call 07768 267366 or visit https://bit.ly/3p96f7X

The Bull at Brenchley

A fabulous, luxury boutique self-catering accommodation for up to 16 people, The Bull - a former Victorian tavern in the sleepy village of Brenchley - is quite something.

There’s eight bedrooms, seven bathrooms, a lounge with loads of seating, a snug, dining area and even a basement media room with curved Ultra HD TV and Sky.

The place comes complete with the pub signage out the front, too, making it feel even more authentic.

And there’s a few first class extras if you want them, including catering and a stocked drinks cabinet.

Next door you’ll find the lovely Little Bull Cafe and Bar, which is worth popping into for a bite to eat or drink.

For more see thebullatbrenchley.co.uk or @thebullatbrenchley

The Victory picture credit is Airbnb/Alex Bagner

The Victory, Kingsdown

Formerly a fisherman’s pub on Kingsdown beach, The Victory is now a Nordic-themed get-away for up to 10 people complete with sauna, wood burning stove and impressive views out to sea.

The four-bedroom retreat is owned by Alex Bagner and husband Chris, whose great grandfather founded Walmer Brewery, which owned the old Victory, in the 1800s.

With wood panelling, painted floorboards, a patio, sun room and terrace, it may no longer resemble the old pub, which shut in the late 1950s, but if you do fancy a pint you can always pop to the Zetland Arms next door.

For more see https://bit.ly/3zodrQL

The Star Inn, Lydd

The former Star Inn, which we believe stopped serving drinks in 2012, still has all the characteristics of a classic tavern - believed to be 14th Century - just look at that exterior.

Walk through the door of this Grade II listed building and you step back in time, with the low beamed ceilings and huge inglenook fireplace.