Three locals in when we arrived 5 minutes after opening, lovely evening with the sun shining into the pub.

Since the arrival of Martyn's new baby it seems like we're going to see less of him. However, the addition of Gavin (aka Tuscany Sunset) to the management team is a wise choice. Now visitors can expect not only the finest ales but also service with a smile.

Back here again, two days running, well the beer is sublime. Nice to see Glynn again. That unique Butchers atmosphere prevails.

Back to my favourite pub and my former local, not disapointed, beers superb as always. Why don't more pubs serve beer on gravity? There is such a difference in taste.

Only one Alistair in when we arrived, soon became busy, nice to see Glyn. Love this pub but don't get here so often since we have moved.

Just want to voice my thanks to Dickie and Gavin (two of Martyn's 12 friends) for their stirling work in keeping the Tardis afloat during the enforced absence of its proprietor. The beer was as good as ever and the welcome and level of service were almost unbelievable.

Another visit to the multi award winning micro pub but with a pleasant difference, no Martyn. Pub packed most nights as regulars enjoyed bonhomie and conviviality. Congrats to Dickie and Tuscany who managed without a moan or a crossed word. Only similarity between the temps and Martyn was the excellent beer, usuall high standard.

Fairly quiet, Martyn is on holiday and Dickie was at the Helm. Spent a convivial half hour talking to Ken.

A flying visit to pick up a bottle of beer to go with a take-away curry. Martyn was apparently on holiday. Reasonably busy and it was nice to see Glyn.

Fairly quite early on with all locals in.

Popped in early to avoid the Friday crush, a good crowd of regulars and others.

Arrived at half 6 and it was already busy. No Martyn as he was in Paris watching England-France but Dickie was doing a good job standing in. Good to see a group of young fellows in drinking pints of the good stuff. Spent the evening talking to Ian, a Canadian who now lives in my old village, a group of people from Leicestershire who were on a South East tour and Glyn just before he left. A good evening even if the Hophead had run out at lunchtime!

Bit disappointed not to find Martyn in and no Hophead, but Dickie did a sterling job. Beer was in great form as always and good to see Glyn as well as the group of students drinking proper real ale.

Mr Bumble, Mr Fuzziwig and Mr Micawber were all of the same mind, and did declare that the ale brewed by Mr Adnam and vended under the sobriquet Broadside was of the finest body of ales known to the men of Herne in the county of Kent. After much and several discourse they also did venture to concur that such a memorable ale was best dispensed by Mr Hillier, purveyor of fine ales, also of said parish.Thus said they did then toast the good health of all severally present before weaving their way homeward, safe in the knowledge that they had imbibed the finest of ales in the finest of hostelries. And so to bed.

3 months removed from my last visit, lack of money is a bit of a pain. Nothing much changes here, but it's actually a good thing. This pub has the best value for money entertainment I know, i ended up just taking a back seat.

Another excellent night in this pub with atmosphere aplenty. Lots of regulars - Glyn the Roof came out of hibernation - the Tuesday nighters (with Del telling everyone of his motorbike experiences) - Andy the Onion (without Shallot - cheap night) - A newcomer who had this thing for Jeremy Kyle and then walked off into the sunset and last but not least Martyn who had a lot more colour tonight than of the last few weeks. He was beginning to look very pale - can't imagine what was draining it all !!!

A group of us met here for a lunchtime drink. Those that had not been here before were very impressed with the place.

A lunchtime visit with friends. A good chat with Martyn, and some excellent ales.

I've not been out much recently but as Ian and Brian were coming along I made an effort to get out. Missed Brian though who apparently left before I arrived with a gleeful look on his face and a bottle of Jaipur under each arm. Also missed Glyn too. ...but I did catch up with Ian who was well into a jug of Jaipur. Me, I started with Hop Head and since I only had an hour I finished with Dark Conspiracy. Had some interesting conversation about Dorset, train timetables (yeah that wasn't so interesting) and people's dimensions. If you've not been here before start mustering yourself.

Yes it took me an hour and 20 minutes to get here from work, but you know what? It's worth it. Brian was tucking into his first ever JW Lees Harvest Ale, Glyn, Simon and Andy the Onion were on form and then Andrew arrived as well. Oh and I drank 4 pints of Jaipur. Still lots of talk about the 360 degree photo which is hailed as a great success and great promotion for the pub. My last visit was 2 months ago, it could have been 2 days ago. Oh and don't mention French TV news spoken in French to Ken.

Another visit albeit flying, to the award winning micro pub. People do,and say the funniest things. I really think Spudders has spent too long en Francais and lost touch with reallity. I will say no more except to say thanks SN for one of the funniest moments in the Felchers history!! Glad to see Beer buff Ian made the effort all the way from Ashford via Folkestone and friend Brian(Big!).Sorry to have missed Andrew also. Interesting to watch Adam in action, as he managed to get his Dad to take him home and pay for his beer, again! No wonder they call him favourite. Another night to remember.

Another visit to this award winning micro pub.Much talk about the amazing photograph of the interior of the pub, which is now on the website.It transforms the pub and makes it look like one you`d like to visit and spend time drinking in. Who says the camera doesn`t lie!Gadds No5 coming soon.

Called in lunchtime for a pint and some take aways. Martyn tells me that Jaipur will be on from Tuesday.

Ever wondered how submariners dispose of human waste materials while submerged? No? Neither had we. But we got told about it all the same! If you'd like to know more, or share in some of the racier stories.....I wouldn't bother asking if I were you.

It's been far too long, at least 6 whole weeks since I've been here! Good to be back, the usual regulars were in. There were also some delicious mince pies on the go, and a lift back to the station, what service!

Made the trip to Herne with Pete that we'd been meaning to make for months but never got around to. We were first in at midday and managed three before getting the bus back to Canterbury. Having read everyone's posts about the place I had pretty high expectations and I wasn't disappointed, it was a great lunchtime session and the beer was fantastic, will certainly be back for more sooner rather than later.

Typical Butchers evening all regulars and much joking. Beer that has a silage aroma and people playing in farm slury pits. Strange but you had to be there........and I got a lift home, magic.

What a fun filled week it has been. All regulars in and interlopers too including a few stray flange to celebrate the 4th year of this fine institution. Beer excellent all week especially Hophead and ESB. Behaviour good too with no expullsions or yellow cards. Celebrations cullminated on Sunday lunch time with loyal regulars enjoying a hog roast washed down with whatever you wanted, all on mine host!! Martyn with a tear in his eye thanked all present for their support and kind friendship over the years. A great day. Did anyone see KB(64)?

Where better to spend Children in Need night than in the company of fine people who care so much. When Boris' son asked for help was it denied him? Of course not! Now, thanks to Boris' blackberry and the group IQ of 8 (there were 8 of us there at the time) we all learnt what a monkey is and how it differs from an Indian pony. That's teamwork for you.

Another good evening at this pub. Lots of banter and discussions,about a variety of subjects, with locals - regulars and newcomers. That's what this pub is all about and obviously the beer on offer served in the best condition.

Popped in to the award winning pub for a couple of pints and some takeouts at six o'clock on Saturday, only to discover about twenty others had the same idea. My disappointmemt at not having the place to myself was short lived when I realised the crowd was from Folkestone and included Mrs Miggins, meaning one thing, Pork pie!Her hot crust pastry and prime pork filling accompanied by homemade pickles are the best I have ever tasted. And all for the price of a small donation to the poppy appeal! Last week was not a flange free week which seemed to rouse something in KB(64). He seems quite smitten with them, must be his age. Beer as ever great. Gadds No5, a first for me but really enjoyed it, look forward to trying other Gadds. Introduced myself to the brewer at Wantsum brewery, seems like a nice chap and invited us for tasting, top man!!

Quiet, only a few of us in but much beer drunk. Nice to meet up with Kevin again.

Came down with my dad and brother as he hasn't been in a long while. First visit in months and he manages to get put on the board, good job Grant!. Pretty quiet, but that's to be expected on a thursday.

Popped in with C and Shilts to have a swift half and buy a couple of bottles of beer to go with a curry we'd ordered. The conversation was flowing with lots of discussion around the fascinating topic of copper wire.

Busy already at 6.15, a mix of locals and regulars.

Dragged my old man out for a few pints. Polyps of all things seemed to dominate the evening, just as bad as it sounds. Great banter as always, I've been informed by my sources that the mystery person who couldn't take his drink last week wasn't any of us three, it was in fact 2 gents who left just before us. That's our story, and we're sticking to it.

The Butcher's Arms hey? Well yes. East Kent Pub of the Year? Umm, bit better than just that I think (no disrespect to the the Bull). I arrived at 8pm. Ian and Ang were already there in the corner drinking Harvey's. Glyn the Roof was holding court (good man). Martyn was on top form as usual and there's now a chalk-board sporting the odds on who's getting banded next which I think lends an element of excitement to the whole proceedings. As for beer quality, well I've been to a lot of pubs and no one serves beer quite as well as Martyn does. It was brilliant to see Ian too as I don't get out quite like I used to when I was 18.

Met up with Ang from Ratebeer and Andrew of this parish. Brilliant pub. People were queueing outside even before opening it's that popular. Great group in from Buckinghamshire who very much appreciated the beer and atmosphere. Good to see Glyn the Roof, Andy the Onion and Simon too. Great to catch up with Martyn as well. Beer quality as always was faultless.

We were stumped what to do on a friday night so decided on a night here. After the half hour walk in thr rain to get here, a beer was most welcome. Great fun as always.

Only a swift visit tonight, mainly so I can be sure I'll be up for work in time in the morning. Steady stream of regulars coming in and out. Main topic of converdation seemed to be the lewd actions of a certain local. Funny night as I've come to expect.

Came in for 1 on my way home from work, to find Camra in attendance with Martyns latest award. This really is an award winning pub. One topic of conversation was the loss the previous night of a Ferrari Mondena, when the driver lost control just up the road overturned and it burst into flames. Oops

We were in early, a couple of locals in, we discussed who would be banned next.

Just a short visit this evening, but it always amazes me how easy it is to strike up some friendly banter with people you've never met before. Subjects this evening ranged from David Attenborough's daughter to Billy Cotton, Arthur Askey, and to where Scotty hid the bodies of his ex-neighbours! Answers on a postcard please.

Only 3 other people in tonight which took me by surprise, I was with a group of eight though so it didn't stay quiet for long. Great banter as always and my friends were quite astounded by the pickled eggs. Not so taken by the bright red hophead however.

Attended Martyn's birthday bash, of course there were only 12 people in (cos thats all it will hold) I THINK NOT I counted 28 at one time, and all enjoying each others company, and the excellent beer, with some pie and cake thrown in. Sadly due to circumstances I could only sample the Hophead which as usual was delicious

Beware of landlord brandishing red card, is anyone safe? Remember two yellows or a straight red, go to jail do not pass Go! The award winning pub is having a clean up and clear out. The floor covering of nut shells has been replaced with egg shells as customers tip toe around mine host. To celebrate Martyns special day and us regulars being allowed in, there is a fly pass by the Red Arrows at 7.00pm followed by bell ringing until 9.30pm. Buffet is provided by Mrs Miggins, Mrs Scott and Martyn will provide the beer!! Good to see Over the Moon back on, and Spudders see you se soir!

I had a spare 45 mins so thought I'd try out the Plough in Broomfield but it was closed and peering though the window had its two hand-pump signs turned round. I thought about going to the Huntsman and Horn or the Gate Inn but then thought, "What am I thinking, it's 12am, the Butcher's will be open". Usually when I get a spare few mins its on a Sunday when the Butchers is closed. Anyway, down I went. It was fairly busy when I arrived. A chap from Wigmore came in and was very happy to see Dark Star Hophead and Harvey's Sussex on. Coincidently they were the 2 bottles I had sitting by me. A lady popped her head in just to find out what kind of shop this was. It's the best kind of shop - a beer shop! Got to love the Butchers!

There is an undercurrent of excitement in this award winning micro pub, as Martyn rapidly approaches a landmark birthday. Celebrations begin on 2nd September and climax on Thursday.On Friday there will be free beer donated by Dark Star, fireworks, a running buffet and a Party Bag upon departure. Martyn would also like to take this opportunity to thank his friends and regulars for their support over the years and the significant role they have played in his success.

Another good night at this pub - excellent beer company and banter. What more could anyone ask for ?

It's been months since I was last year, but it was my dad's birthday so I treated him to a night out in his favourite pub. Really busy, a testament to how good this pub is that it can be packed out on a tuesday!

Ably run by Biker Boy while Martyn was at the GBBF in London. Yet another example of lax standards at this Award Winning Pub. Fancy leaving an ex-copper in charge of all that beer and banter? Shurely a recipe for disaster?

The last day in July. That's a good enough reason to visit the Butcher's. Actually I was out getting bread but hey. Bumped into Ian which was a bit surreal. It was busy with people having a good time but then when a pub's this good that's not really surprising.

Brilliant evening with a good mix of males and female locals plus some new faces too. Conversation flowed from boat centreboards to installing electrical equipment at Shepherd Neame Good banter with Simon, Kevin the Pickle and Andy the Onion and Ken. Even Andrew turned up with the world's most surprised face.

Called in early, just a few locals in. An amazing choice of beers on offer but I was here to try the Tom Paine, and it was superb!

Quiet tonight, half a dozen locals in,

Good to see Mrs Miggins and her entourage again on Saturday evening. Lucky enough to match the finest Larkins with the finest pork pie. Rumour has it that Martyn's clinched the East Kent POTY title for the second year running. However all of this is somewhat overshadowed with a concern that CAMRA's going to have to add another couple of pages to its letters page in the August edition of What's Brewing? Looks like firkins at twenty paces!

The only time you can ever really complain about the award winning pub is when your favourite beer runs out or all the beer runs out, well this appeared to be the case this week! The wonderful warm weather must have had something to do with it encouraging punters out and to drink more, or was it the sheer quality of the beer forcing us to finish each barrel.It was almost disappointing to be drinking Harveys because it was all that was left! Highlight of the week Summer Solstice, another great creation from Dark Star. Monday 27th July if anyone is interested is quarter finals day of 20/20 versus Durham, 17.30 start, Butchers Arms is shut, chance to get stuck in to some Sheps. Well done to Martyns 11 other mates for supping with him and paying him for the privilage! Where are the Fanit boys?

Called in early to try the Summer Solstice and I wasn't disapointed, very nice. The usual crowd of reprobates were in.

Some discussion tonight about Martyn's cavalier attitude towards swilling pints in a butcher's shop with his twelve mates as depicted in the letters page of 'What's a'Brewing?' If you think what he's doing is wrong, or you think he hasn't got twelve mates .................!!!

This alluring award winning micro pub worked its charm on two unsuspecting visitors last night. Two German ladies popped in for "just a look" and ended up staying for an hour. Martyn and the regulars worked their charm and the pub claimed more converts. Rattling good evening as always! Pleased that Andy the Onion was in to regulate Phil's dress sense or lack of!

Quite late for me to be visiting this award winning micro pub, and was surprised to find quite a few early enbibers still there at nine o'clock when I arrived,and still there when I left! To add to Fannits famous peoples list is Frank Muir who was born in Ramsgate and went to Chatham House, (thanks John). Place was buzzing and the beer great as ever.

Many visits this week to the multi award winning micro pub. Nice to see Fan it boys again including Blair, Blairs dad and an assortment of others. Most amusing to witness their collective brain power struggling to list famous people from the island and only coming up with minor celeb artist. Put down the Good Beer guide pick up your old school books and look around. Have they not heard of Saint Augustine, Fanits earliest visitor/resident.Ex Prime Minister Edward Heath attended Chatham House, Charles Dickens left a few clues in Broadstairs. Famous actors include Jack Warner, Bernhard Hepton, John LeMesurier, Annette Mills. Jacky Pallo and Lord Scarman, Dennis Wheatley schooled in Cliftonville and Vincent Van Gogh taught in Ramsgate in 1876 and poet Sam Coleridge was from the area as was Nigel Horne the composor. the list goes on, so come on you Fanit boys smell the coffee!! The beer great as ever including Dark Star Mild.

I hadn't been to the pub in exactly 3 weeks so I was really looking forward to it tonight. Surprisingly quiet really, but still had a great atmosphere. The main theme tonight was trying to think of famous people from Thanet, I think the best we managed to come up with was Tracey Emmin. Says it all really, great night as ever.

A real case of Mohammed and Mountains tonight. We couldn't get some 300 music 'lovers' and 4 or 5 bands to the beer in the Butchers so had to take the beer from the Butchers to Mansfield's barn, between Highstead and Marshside. Good to see some old faces again and, needless to say, the beer travelled well..........very well

Well done to Martyn for picking up yet another local area Camra award! The pub was full of hard core regulars enjoying the usual quality ale and bonhomie.New barrel of Harveys on which was excellent, far better than you will get anywhere in Sussex!

The board that displays the beers on offer said Hop Head and London Pride but all manner of different beers were coming out the back. Ian and I tried making our own beer to add to the list by mixing Jaipur and Hop Head (50-50). Very nice it was. As well as top class beer you can get a free education at this pub. Who'd have guessed that archaeology isn't really a subject. But the most exciting development was the possibility of a Butcher's Wives calendar!

Andrew was on holiday so we thought that we would have a meet up somewhere and where better than here. Great night here, even better than most. The geology/geography discussion was enlightening and the discussion on possible models for the Butcher's Wives Calendar was good too. Never stopped laughing from coming in to leaving 3 hours later. Martyn was on top form too.

Busy again tonight with lots of regulars and locals. Some new faces which is good to see. It means the gospel is spreading far and wide converting the L**** drinkers to the real stuff. Goodness me I'm beginning to feel like a missionary !! Lots of banter and Dave the Wave jokes - another good night.

Damn it! The Larkin's had gone. Damn it. My own stupid fault for not getting down here earlier. So I got my bottle of Mild and sat and had a chat to Mick and Rosemary and the other locals who were in. It felt really nice and relaxed with only a handful of people in. By now I guess it'll be packed.

Very busy for a Thursday, mostly locals.

By anybodys standards a quiet start to the evening,with half a dozen regulars in attendance.For those with any electrical queries it was an opportunity missed as resident experts Andy the Onion and KB(63) were on hand to answer any sparkey questions. It was therefore fortunate for local hero Tommo who can now mend his solar powered unit on Whitstables lifeboat. Next week Scotty will be answering all those awkward questions you've been dying to ask on embroidery and upholstery!! Beer excellent as usual.

Usual bunch of characters in tonight. There's talk of a cricket/beer trip which sounds interesting. Great beer lineup tonight, as Glyn has sais, the beer just seems to be getting better and better.

It is no exaggeration to say that the beer just keeps on getting better and better! Since our trip to the Harveys brewery it is nice to be drinking Sussex Best at its very best.The quality of beer in Lewes must be variable when Splitter resorted to drinking white wine!! What a tart. A new beer to the Arms to get excited about is Larkins best bitter. What a find, sorry Mike you'll have to wait until next time. Apparently there is new flange on the scene but i've not seen it yet but K.B.(63) is getting quite unnecessary.Possible events in the future could be a day at the cricket and a visit to Westerham Brewery, early days though.

Usual Butchers evening, Ken, Glyn and a few others, the Whitstable bunch came later.

Seem to be getting here more and more regularly these days, can only be a good thing. Fantastic night, possibly the best beer lineup I've seen since I've been coming here. I don't think I stopped laughing from the moment I got in until the moment I left!

Wonderful evening, all locals in, splendid atmosphere.

Usual bunch in tonight. Only intended on staying for a couple but that never ends up being the case.

Tony and I finished the evening off with a visit to the Butcher's. Tony was impressed. We had a chat with Mick and then before we left we purchased 2 litres of beer from Martyn's Aladin's Cave of bottles. There's so much good stuff back there it's better than having a pension plan!

Quiet this evening, Kevin, Ken, young Simon and Scotty in.

Came over for a few pints on my birthday. Great friendly atmosphere as always. I even received a birthday block of cheese with a lit candle in it. Another great night.

Thanks go to our Outings Secretary Glynn the Roof for arranging the charabanc and to Martyn for arranging the p*** up in the brewery. Interesting comment from a few imbibees that the Harvey's didn't taste as good at Harvey's as it does in the Butchers. But, whatever you do, don't tell Martyn. It'll only go to his head

Sat with Dave, Dee, Dozy, Mich and Tich who kept me entertained all evening with their tales of fence climbing and various things you can do with pistachio nut shells. Great evening as always.

Having sold my car (...the heap of junk!) I thought I'd treat myself to some beer from the Butchers. It was quite busy; I could just about move around but still quite busy I thought. Glyn was there collecting money for Saturday's trip to the Harvey's Brewery and Martyn was running around getting people beer.

Really quiet in tonight. Only one other person in, may have been due to Martyn being down in Eastbourne. Beer was great as always though.

The attraction of this deminutive micro pub never ceases to amaze. No exaggeration to say that on the last three visits to the award winning tardis it has been heaving! Regulars will be pleased to learn that my birthday celebrations are now complete, thanks to those who celebrated with me and Spudders who had he known would have brought a caterpillar cake!! The pub continues to attract from far and wide including Roger and his merry men from Dover, Mrs Miggins and her scotch egg scoffing chums from Folkestone and Blair and almost his entire family from Ffannit! Strange but Blair is the only self confessed metro sexual vegan I know. Word of advise for KB(63) dont annoy the northerners.

Once again a lovely day and I really fancied a pint of Hophead. First time I've been here midweek and I was amazed at how busy it was. tried our best to sell the Thanet Beer festival, hope it worked!

I popped in for 2ltrs or Hophead and found the place really quite busy although Martyn reckoned it was quite. Got chatting to Glyn and Mick about the forthcoming Butcher's trip to Harveys (shame I can't go). Just as I was about to go, Blair walked in so we had a chat about the Thanet Beer Fest which is on next week. In the brief time I was in the pub it packed out even more (this place really is a Tardis) and it was a squeeze to get out. What a top pub.

It was a gorgeous night, perfect weather for a trip to The Butchers. It was packed when we arrived, I wasn't sure we'd all actually get in but we managed. Bumped into Andrew, surprised it took this long to bump into either himself or Ian here. The atmosphere was great although it did get very quiet at around 9. Just 5 people left in the place. What a fantastic night.

Quiet for a Friday, only locals in a splendid evening.

Another good night. Lots of regulars in tonight including Glyn the Roof(50) who has just reached his half century with lots of hair. We're not sure if its always been his !! As ever good banter and atmosphere.

First time in a pub since breaking my arm and what a great way to start up again. Had a great time chatting with Martyn about his upcoming speech at the Camra AGM in Eastbourne which is a wonderful recognition of his efforts

Ever noticed how psychologists, educators and the like keep talking about people's 'comfort zones' but never ever mention the Butcher's Arms? Ah well! Their loss. Meanwhile, it seems I just missed Birthday Boy Glyn's big 5 - 0. If I'd known I'd have bought a caterpillar cake.

What a good night. Everyone was in good voice and as jokey and friendly as ever with plenty of banter. Locals and visitors all mix in and just chat which is sadly missing from lots of pubs these days, but not here.Martyn, as usual, was providing excellent beer. Why not pay a visit and sample the atmosphere and beer.

I was sat at home doing nothing so decided The Butchers would be a good cure for my boredom. All the usual characters were in tonight, I was in a quiet mood so just sat back and listened to the banter. Martyn asked me to point out that a couple of gents left one of whom left at least 3 quarters of his pint behind. Don't worry Martyn there was nothing wrong with the Harvey's.

A quiet evening enlivened by Dom's encyclopaedic knowledge of beers he hadn't meant to vote for on facebook. And an unexpected guest, Jim (I see no Sheps), proprietor of Faversham's only real ale pub the Elephant.

Another pleasant evening in the award winning pub,a real treat for customers was the unveiling of a Dark Star masterpiece, Ruby Mild. A micro brewery with macro talent to produce a beer this good. Kev the pickle rates it as a top three beer and he's probably not wrong!Most customers appear to have been born in March as more birthdays are celebrated. Today its Andy the Onion's b'day and he would like to buy all his beer friends a drink. Come on down!!

The last Sunday opening at the Butchers so I felt it was worth the 2 mile walk in the sunshine, and it was. Fairly quiet with just a few locals in.

Wonderful evening in the award winning pub. Large numbers in celebrating Colons birthday, 55 years old.Interesting fact, Splitter not only wears pink but uses pink tees on the golf course. And Andy the Onions boy wears clay on his hair, KB doesn't. What kind of a pub is this!!

The one and only Butchers Arms. There were a handful of folk in sitting around enjoying the polite conversation and top quality beer. Wish I could have been one of them but I had to get back so I got my 2 litres of Harvey's, had a quick chat with Martyn about strangely named Larkin's beers and left. Why wasn't the Butchers Arms in Roger Protz's top 25 pubs in the UK? My guess is because he's not been here yet.

It is difficult to keep away from this award winning micro-pub, is it the landlord, the beer or the regulars, I don't know, but we all keep coming back. Last night was no different and an early pint turned out to be quite a raucous (explain to Gary the One) occasion. Early pace setters were Alistair and Julian(Woody) and Andy the Onion and Sir. Soon we were joined by the whole Collins family, Mr Rigsby and two chaps wearing short trousers!Beer brilliant as usual especially the Hooky

The Award winning pub has just undergone a major refit including leather upholstery, I hope it does not alter the unique character that we all enjoy.Will it deter vegans? Kev the screw and I enjoyed several Adnams Old which is superb and finished off with HSB which is equally as good.In fact they are all excellent. Usual suspects in including KB(63), SN Ken, Splitter, Blutto, and Ulster Ken. Very nice to see Ian again on saturday all the way from Ashford.

Bit of a pain as my train was delayed by nearly half an hour. Which meant there was already a good smattering of people in. Most were having a drink before going off to watch France vs Wales in the rugby. Met up with Ken and in particular Glyn. We chatted about the next pub trip to a brewery and thought about either Westerham or 1648, both solid brreweries

Popped in for a take-out bottle of Hophead. There was a good crowd in, including Mick who told me about his forthcoming trips to Bruges and the Bull at Horton Kirby. Wish I could have stayed longer.

Fairly busy with locals, the rugby lads had plainly had a good lunch! Nice to see Andrew, if only briefly

Popped in on my way home from work, just missed the 'silverback', a very quiet Thurday just 3 (later 5) of us, but all the more fun everyone being able to partake in the conversations

experiment

Several visits have been made recently to the award winning micro pub(tardis) including that busy night. Good to see the Fannit boys in.Sundays locum landlord was Splitter who owing to a domestic, failed to produce any roast potatoes, Shame! Last nights lecture was from Andy the Onion on the merits of copper wire. Another quiet uneventful evening.

The atmosphere in this pub recently has been electrical (see Domonic). Makes you want to visit all the more. Tried the Harveys and one pint of the Critical Mass (I'm a light weight).As ever the Harveys was superb and the Critical Mass has an explosion of taste. Very nice.

What a wonderful evening and thanks to all for making my birthday comiserations a night to remember. Special thanks must go to Glynn the Roof's birthday cake and Martyn's supply of the best Critical Mass I have ever tasted.

The birthday boy had departed so it wasn't to busy when James and I arrived.

Congratulations to SN Ken 60 today!Anyone who would like to buy Ken a pint tonight is welcome, but please bring cake or jelly and ice cream. Special request from our host is to inform all of the beer on at the moment. Hophead, Harveys, Dark Star APA, OLd Hooky, Critical Mass, and Fullers ESB. See you all tonight!

I had absolutely nothing to do on Saturday that didn't take me longer than a couple of hours to do. So by 11.36 I was on the train out of Ashford, and 45 minutes later I ended up here. First one in and what a session. Unbeknownst to me the Camra Dover, Deal and Sandwich branch had organised with Martyn to stay for a bit during Saturday afternoon. Roger Marples and his wife were the first to arrive, but then there were a dozen or so in after that. Good banter.

Arrived late (for us) at this award winning pub, having collected the 'Silverback'. Mrs Conan swapped cars with me when she delivered 'Riggers' who drove us home. The pub was full to capacity too many people for me to count but I'm it was over thirty. Straight onto the Dark Star Porter for me which (as I would expect) was in excellent condition and very tasty. With so many in conversations were with whomever you were standing next to, and glasses and jugs of beer were delivered overhead, orders sometimes given to Martyn by 'tick tack' and other sign language

Goodness me wasn't it busy tonight. Had to fight for a place. In these times its obviously a sign of the good beer and company that Martyn provides. I was on the Harveys tonight and it was as excellent as ever. Its always worth a trip to this pub for the beer and entertainment provided by Martyn and the locals.

It's been far too long since I've been here, nearly 2 months I believe. Once inside it felt like I'd never been away. Really busy tonight, hitting 33 people at one point. Thankfully I didn't take too much stick tonight, looks like the shock of discovering my veganism is over.

Absolutely packed with locals, I have never seen the place so busy.

The 18.25 bus took me to the award winning pub in 12 minutes, cost £1.Blutto and Ulster Ken were already there, soon to be joined by KB(63), and our resident librarian, Hugh.Good beer and banter enjoyed by all.

Last saturday saw a raid on the pub by some jolly nice folk from Folkestone. One of them, Mrs Miggins, brought the most splendid home made pork pie and divided amongst those present. Complete with golden pastry and hot water crust, it is without doubt the finest pie ever! Thank you Mrs Miggins. Sunday lunch saw a special guest appearance behind the ramp, Simon (Blutto) was at the helm as Martyn had a well deserved day off with his boys. Another Butchers Arms away day is in the offing although in its embryonic stage, but early April is looking good. Previous away day veterans will be given priority, strictly no Splitters. Further details coming soon. Last week saw many special offers including cut price roofing materials, this week bathroom fittings(see Ian). As usual in this award winning pub beer in tip top condition, as are the regulars who use it. Not seen anyone from Fannit for while though so where are you Blair and CO

As stated by Glyn I did indeed visit this award winning pub Tuesday night, unlike him I did try the excellent Dark Star Porter, and found it (as I would expect) to be in wonderful condition and very flavoursome - hints of smokiness hidden in its darkness. Like Glyn I enjoyed the company and chat

I'd been away too long. Cam was down and we needed some beer to go with our take-away curry. I had orders not to dilly-dally at the pub so we didn't have much time. I think I threw back the pint of Old Hooky, half of Hop Head and the last quarter of Cam's Over the Moon in less than 10 minute. Rock 'n' Roll. We were there at 6pm and Mick was in before us. Within the space of 10 minutes the pub was full. Great pub.

Called in with Rosemary for a beer before dinner intending to try the Old Hooky, I then found out Over the Moon was on so had that instead. Andrew put in a brief appearence and the pub quickly filled with locals. I would have liked to have stayed longer.

What a one off pub this is. The beer is first class and the locals/regulars are the same. I visited last Friday evening and Sunday lunchtime.The beers available were excellent and the chat/banter was friendly and entertaining. Someones grandchildren even turned up to drag grandad off home for his dinner because he was enjoying himself too much or was it because he was a nice "Guy"? I cant understand why anyone would want to go to another pub! If this review inspires you to visit why not ask for me and perhaps buy me a pint.Look forward to seeing you

First taste of Old Hooky in a long time, and it didn't dissapoint. Did you know the Butcher's Arms has it's own site on Facebook. In its embryo stage at the moment but, as the word spreads, who knows?

Popped in with Kev the Screw. Good crowd in last night all waiting for the return of Old Hooky. This was only available when the HSB had been finished,we duly obliged, and we were not dissapointed.

Despite freezing temperatures -8c, it was well worth visiting the award winning public front room! Weather must have detered some as only a handfull of people in, however they were mainly quality which made for a pleasant hour. New barrel of Harveys is excellent and how nice to see the return of Gales HSB. And the really good news is Hook Norton Old Hookey is on this week, dont miss it!!

Popped in on the dot of 6pm to get a bottle of something Jane would drink too (which ruled out Hophead unfortunately - I'm starting to get withdrawal symptoms).

With the aid of public transport I visited the award winning pub, again.Ex old bill were in, in strength(Pete and Dickie) as was Ulster Ken, Bluto,Bobby Grant, and KB(63).Tried Harveys Old for the first time and was quite impressed. How nice to see SN Ken blogging at last. Happy New Year to Mr & Mrs SN.

Congratulations to SN Ken,60 today. Anyone wishing to celebrate Ken's special day is welcome to the Butchers tonight to buy the old boy a pint. Please also bring cake or jelly and ice cream. Martyn wishes to inform all, of the beer now on tap.They are as follows,Hophead, Harveys,Dark Star APA, Old Hooky, Critical Mass and Fullers ESB.

Sadly Mrs SN & I were away for the festive period so we had to rely on Adam collecting a carryout of Critical Mass for consumption the other side of the channel. The beer, of course, was delicious but never quite the same when you're away from base. Hopefully someone else picked up the Talking Bullocks award in my absence!

Popped in to pick-up some beer for tomorrow - although I had some of it tonight. A small crowd were in including Glyn who I met for the first time.

Called in early with Rosemary, we were the first in, soon followed by some locals, Glyn, Simon and Ken. Ian then called in and gave me some excellent advice on places to visit in Bruge.

Busy Saturday lunchtime for off sales for Martyn which is good news for the pub. There were 4 guys from Thanet who were visiting for the first time and were very impressed. I sat next to Evo Kev and had a few pints before meeting up with Andrew on the bus to Canterbury.

Crazy days in this award winning pub, never seen it so busy, our host must be doing something right at last!! Good news, Masalla Bay reopened after the cockroach incident.Great combo mutton vindaloo and Dark Conspiracy, but beware Gandhi's revenge!Many regulars in attendance as you would expect, including Ralph impersonating Rupert Bear, Andy the Onion as himself, Dr Petts and Jubbly Kate. Met a jolly nice chap on saturday, beer boffin Ian from Ashford,such is the attraction of this little pub, regulars from 30 miles away.Dont forget to logon to Axe the Tax website and register to get Mr Brown to reduce the tax on beer.(it won't happen).

I had a one day Explorer bus ticket burning a hole in my pocket and I wanted to make the most use of it. So after saying goodbye to Andrew, I got something to eat, some bottles of Punk IPA from Oddbins and caught the bus back to Herne, even though the sensible thing would have been to go home. Glad I did go back as met Glyn the Roof for the first time and a very pleasant chap he is as well. Also spoke to Lofty about Brugge. And we found out what a Runcible spoon is from the Owl and the Pussycat. And there was an element of self serve with the beers too. General air of bonhomie that made me happy for the rest of the weekend.

James dropped me off, I had 2 hours to sample some beers. The place was heaving, at least 30 people plus a couple of dogs.

Another visit to the award winning pub, and the conversation was about events on Saturday evening. Blair from Fannit announced that he was a Vegan, not sure this is a wise move when Simon and Ian are in.Blair faces a moral and ethical dilema, should he even be in the Butchers arms at all and are there any animal products in beer!! Answers on a postcard please.Martyn enters the 21st century today by installing a PC at home, so look out for his blog! Handfull of regulars in including KB Brian(63), SN Ken and the boys, Andy the Onion.

Had a fantastic night last night. Was heaving early on, didn't stand in the same spot for more than about 30 seconds. The banter was great as always, I took a fair amount of abuse but it was all in good fun.

Popped in about 8:30 to pick up some Larkins. It was fairly busy in but no Martyn - Kevin the Pickle was running the show.

Popped in just after 6 to try the porter again, Kevin the Pickle was in charge as Martyn had a night off.

Visited the Award winning pub last night, missing Andrew and Mike apparently.Martyn was away entertaining beer bigwigs in Folkestone and Kev the pickle did a great job in charge always charming and polite, makes a change!!Chatted to KB(63)and Dave the wave. Dave, Dee etc made their entrance at 8.45, time to leave.Has anyone seen Gary the One?

Having seen Mick's visit I knew the Dark Conspiracy would be on. One of the brewers of this was a friend of mine, Phil, so I had to have it. It was fairly quiet in the pub but then it was a Tuesday night. Martyn had been up to see the Royal Oak in Sussex and was telling me what he thought of the place.

Called in for a late pint with James, expecting it to be quiet but could barely get in the door.

Visited the Award winning pub late last night only to find about fourteen others had the same idea!Great atmosphere,all regulars,and much topical chat.Lots of comment about Critical Mass, didn't try stayed on Harveys which was excellent.

Got here at 12:05, already the Whitstable boys were in. People bearing roast spuds and game pie rolled up during the next hour. What a pub!

Met up with Ian at lunchtime for a pint or 2 before going back to mine. There were a couple of folk in. Martyn showed us a copy of London CAMRA Regional Director's blogg (http://beerjustice.blogspot.com/2008/10/butchers-arms.html) that described his visit to the 16 regional Pubs of The Year. You can make your own mind up about his opinion. Just before we left I asked Martyn which Harvey’s he had in the pin by the till. I recommend you ask too if you’re interested in Martyn’s opinion of your intellect. Great pub.

Came here with Andrew for a pint at lunchtime before going back to his for something to eat. Martyn thought both of us had been hit by the stupid stick. Which was fine, because we were being a bit thick. New visitor to the pub from Aylesham was in plus Dominic with some extra hot pickled onions.

Back for the evening session. Which was great as always, talking about the various nicknames of the locals.

The usual Thursday night crowd were in, everybody talking to each other, wonderful atmosphere.

Made two visits to the award winning pub this weekend, Martyn was his usual self sort of polite and kind of helpful. Many of the regulars in and some strange faces, including one chap who has friends in Switzerland, or so he says! What a wonderful thing public transport is, door to door for £1.Broadside was on but not for long, had to finish the evening on ESB,what a shame!!

Another visit to the award winning pub. A fine atmosphere full of Herne Bay people having intellectual conversation, Gary was not present!Our host Martyn announced the winner of the sunday roast potatoes was Sandra, bad luck Ken.All beers in tip top condition as ever, well done landlord.

The locals were in good form last night as I paid a visit to this Award winning pub. Martyn orchestrated procedings in his usual way careful not to offend or upset.Scotty, dressed by his wife was resplendent in pink and looking forward to doing the roast pots on sunday.SN Ken and the boys (including the favourite one) were enjoying the banter and the Old. Dave, Dee etc filed in and ordered 93 inch stuffed crust.Christmas trees now available from Wyevale Woman, orders taken next wednesday. All the regulars from the Award winning pub wish Ralph a speedy recovery. Another good evening can not wait for the next.

Popped in for a couple of early pints, but beaten to it by Irish Ken and Splitter. Gary the One tried to beat the radar by coming in totally unshaven! As ever beer excellent, tried Adnams Old and Brains. No one from Ffanit in either!

First customer in tonight, had a chat with Martyn, Kevin and Dave the Wave.

It was the Butcher's Arms Pickle Festival and I got there 15 minutes before it opened. 15 minutes later I walked in to find that Ian was already sitting there with a pint. Within 15 minutes the pub was packed with various pickles and cheeses being passed around. We chatted to Mick and James quite a bit and then, 5 pints after arriving, I left to get my bus home. It was a very good evening.

Congratulations to Martyn for the pub awards. Kevin the Pickle gets special mention for organising the food, the cheese, the pickles etc. Great to meet Lofty again and his family, Alistair and Willie were there too from Ramsgate. A great night with good food and outstanding beer.

A good bunch of locals in, it seems everybody here has a nickname!

Came because of the cheese and pickle contest but it'd been postponed because Martin had gone to the Dark Star brewery. Kev was in charge tonight. Had a great time chatting to alistair and the others, then a slightly worse for wear Martin appeared which was good for a laugh.

It was a misurable wet night and I really fancied some Broadside. Knowing Martyn was alternating Broadside with HSB meant I had a 50/50 chance that he'd have it on so I popped in to find out. There were 4 locals in and I wish I could have stayed for a pint myself but I had to get home as quickly as possible.

I arrived at 6.05pm and already there was a group of people in. I chatted to Martyn in the barrel room whilst he poured my bottle of Hop Head. He was telling me an amusing story about a bunch of folk who’d come in a while back and got on his nerves. He also said he’s going to be opening on Sunday lunchtimes when the clocks go back but just for the winter and only if he can get 20 people to sign to say they’ll actually come in. On the beer front he’s currently rotating Gales HSB and Adnam’s Broadside.

6:30 and a good mix of locals and visitors including two foreign ladies who seemed to be enjoying the atmosphere.

What a great night. Pretty quiet with no more than around half a dozen in at any one time. Ended up debating the actions of fathers for justice strangely enough. I've got to make the effort to come here more.

Popped in early to try the Wolf beer I hoped would be on.

First customer in at 6 O'clock, chatted with Martin as some more regulars trickled in.

A brief visit to pick up a 2litre bottle of beer for the evening. One other customer in. I need to come down here for a session some time soon I think.

Called in for a quick pint on the way home from work, just after 6pm and already a few locals in.It wasn't on the board but Martyn suggested Dark Star Sunburst

It late evening and it was time for a pint. I arrived with Jane's mum and sister and found the pub nice and busy. I asked Martyn for a pint of HopHead but he said it was past his serving time. My heart sank but then he smiled and said he wasn't serving because it was now "self-service time". So I went and poured our drinks. Fantastic. Jane's mum told Martyn that we'd just come from visiting my new daughter in hospital so from then on he called her "Gran" and Jane's sister "Auntie". Martyn shook my hand and wouldn't let me pay for the drinks.

Arrived about 6.30 and there were a good number of people in. I was really in to buy 2 litres of Hop Head but I thought I'd have a half of Over-the-Moon while I was at it. I was just about to finish my half when Martyn passed me a half of something that wasn't on the board. It was the last of the Darkstar APA. Fantastic. One of the things I really like about this pub is that within 20 seconds of arriving Martyn was making me laugh with his stories of the day’s activities.

We arrived mid evening, the locals were on form with plenty of banter, a superb atmosphere.

Steady stream of people coming in and out. Great atmosphere as always, once again took abuse for being a 'thanetian.

Cam visited about 3 hours earlier to buy 4 litres of Hop Head (which was superb). After we'd had some dinner we jumped on the bus and got down there. We walked in and ordered Hop Head - but it wasn't on any more - only Harveys and ESB. Apparently I wasn't the first customer to enquire whether Harveys and ESB was it. Martyn said he had a bottle of something light coloured we could have but he couldn't remember what it was. Well it was excellent. It was definitly a DarkStar and most probably, Martyn thought, Six Hop. Nothing better than pot luck hey!

Just came in for some 'supplies' for a camping trip out in blean woods. Would have loved to stay for a session but had minimal time to pitch our tents. Jovial as always, I'm already starting to feel like a regular.

Ian, Martin, Charlie and I were first in. Within 15 minutes the pub was packed. We had a fantastic night chatting with Martyn, Mick and a group of Rugby players from Essex.

We caught the bus from Herne Bay to here to get here for opening. Best moments of a great evening were meeting Mick (Lofty) who reads the site, giving Martyn a sample of the Stone Double IPA which I had bottled from the Saxon Shore, the rugby players and the general atomsphere of people enjoying themselves. Oh, yes, and the beer.

Came with a few friends, managed to squeeze in. Really friendly, chatted to all the locals. It was a bad idea taking the route through the golf course back to the station, fell in a fair few ditches.

Cycled from Broadstairs especially to come here, and well worth the effort. The most unusual place I've ever been. Beer was stunning and the owner and locals were all really friendly. My new favourite pub.

Blimey, I've realised that I've not been to a pub for ages. ...so, what better pub to break the fast with than the Butchers Arms? There were a handfull of locals in but I was only stopping to pick up 3.5 pints of Hophead for the excellent value of £2 a pint.

I knew I could only stay for a pint and I knew that pint would be Darkstar Hophead. When I arrived I read on the board outside that Porter was on but, as usual, it didn't say which one. I thought I'd ask what it was out of interest and then have Hophead anyway. Turned out it was Larkins. Oh well.

Popped in for a take-out. Fairly quiet but that was probably because the world cup rugby final was on

What a great pub this is. We walked down and by the time we arrived the pub was packed. Later in the evening Martyn let us try some of the pickled onions that were entering his competition. Man that 'Albert' onion stings.

Probably the best night I have been here. It was very crowded when we arrived and I stood outside with my first pint of Jaipur enjoying the cool evening. Later on we got a table and chatted with the locals and Martyn was on fine form as per usual. The eating of the pickles was great. Superb pub.

Couldn't stop as I was in the middle of painting a wall so I just bought a 3.5 pint bottle of Hop Head. Outside there was some kind of party going on as there were loads of people milling about.

Popped in for a pint and had a great time. Martyn told us about who'd been annoying him so far this week and then everyone's attention was distracted by a man called Mad Alan whose name really summed him up. Oh, and the beer quality here is still suberb.

There was a film in the 70's called 'Oh Lucky Man'. They're doing a remake and it will star me and my new ability to get to the Butcher's Arms in 10 minutes on my bike! What a great pub this is.

Came here with Phil for a few beers and a chat. Martyn was a little hungover from Wednesday, but still on fine form. Good conversation between the locals as they came and went. The pickled eggs are a sight to behold, especially the snooker ball coloured ones.

The last stop on Ian and my beer tour. It was empty when we arived so we had a chat with Martyn.

Not sure where everyone was today, most pubs Andrew and me visited across west Kent were thin on numbers. I was amazed that Martyn didn't have more customers. Great outlet for Dark Star beers that feature here regularly.

This is just such a delightful pub. No matter who you meet in there you end up chatting with them due to the intimate atmosphere. Stunning pub with exceptionally good beer kept well and served brilliantly by Martyn. Had a pint of Dark Star Hophead and bought some take home beer too.

Ian and I went over to have a chat with Martyn and to buy some beer. The second the pub was open people were coming in. Great place.

Andrew and me came here for opening on Saturday evening. And it is still a stunning place. I had a pint of JHB whilst we got some beer for the evening to take away in the bottles. I can't think of a pub in Kent that has such well conditioned beer. It is kept perfectly and this allows the full flavours of the beers to express themselves. Martyn, the landlord, was as usual on top form.

Big thanks to Phil for driving us up here from Ashford. Martyn (the landlord) and Stuart (who runs their website www.micropub.co.uk) were both on top form. Also on top form was the Dark Star Hophead. A wonderful pub that makes you wish this was next door to your house. Also, try the pickled onions.

Popped in at lunch time to pick up a brew. Saw they had Dark Star hophead on the board but it had sold out (probably because Ian had been there the night before and drank it all)

Popped in a lunch time to pick-up some take-out beer. No one else was in.

Stopped off on my way home for a pint of JHB and to see if the Dark Star American Pale Ale was tapped. Which it was. So I picked up a bottle for Martin and 2 for me. A smattering of locals in.

Arived on a baking day just before evening opening. This is a great pub. It's about the size of a bath tub which means you get to talk to virtually eveybody in the pub without having to move.

Came here on Saturday evening with Andrew and Martin on the very regular bus service from Canterbury. And what a great evening. Pub is small enough to be intimate and the conversation is excellent. 4 beers on, all extremely good.

Just one other local in when I arrived for a pint of JHB and to pick up some take home for later consumption. Must come here for a session one Saturday. Still very good.

Absolutely heaving. Having said that it's not a big place but even still it was a struggle to get in. Good friendly atmosphere. Must come here for a session

I can't believe that it has taken me this long to visit here since it became a pub. I am almost ashamed of myself. It is still a fairly small room, but there are a couple of tables and a bench seat on the wall. Apparently a local was telling me that they got 23 people in there one night. Now that would have been a squeeze. 4 others customers came in after I arrived. I really liked this place as a pub and I will definitely come back to do a session.

Popped in to pick up a take-out and found a couple of drinkers in from Deal having a pint. Must come here one day for a session. Great place.

As usual there was an excellent selection of beers on and Martyn was as informative as ever.

Early evening and there were 3 people in drinking. It officially opens as a pub next week and I'm sure it will be a good one too.

According to Martin the owner, this will be transformed into a pub on 26th November and we wish him every success. Had 3 beers on and as usual all in good nick.

The owner told me that his application to become a pub in November had been passed which is good news. Also, the Larkin's Porter will be coming on in November too, which is even better news!

Small corner shop in the pretty village of Herne opposite the church. Beer is purchased direct from the barrel in 3.5 pint bottles, mini or polypins. Check for opening hours on the beer shop website. Beer is always kept very well. Hopefully it will become a pub later in the year and from last night's visit, it is likely to serve beers from micros only

Corner shop in the pretty village of Herne serving 3 beers on this visit (Harvey's Sussex Best, Oakham JHB and Larkin's Porter) direct from the barrel for home consumption

Little corner shop in Herne that supplies up to 3 beers for home consumption. Beer is always bright and very well kept. Will become a pub in November 2005

He's still got 3 barrels of Larkin's Porter and may save one for when he opens as a pub in November

Excellent beer shop with up to 4 beers available to take home. Always kept in superb condition

He told us he has 8 barrels of JW Lees's Harvest Ale!

He tells me that Brains SA is coming on soon and that when he becomes a pub he'll definitely have a mild on.

Still not a pub (but will be by the end of the year he thinks)

This is the first time I've ever been here although I've heard a lot about it. The front room looks like a cross between a workshop and a beer-obsessed nutter's bedroom. Though some see-through plastic slitted drap you can see a row of barrels... lots of barrels. Ummmmm....I like this kind of shop.