The Coastguard - St Margaret's Bay

6th January, 2023

We were very lucky that we moved down to the Kent coast just as the summer heatwave kicked in to full gear, not only did it mean we three escaped the worst of the heat in London (praise be to a sea breeze!), but we got to explore our new surroundings in their most glorious state.

Speaking of which, we don’t think there can be many more spectacular and glorious settings for a pub than at The Coastguard in St Margaret’s Bay. Officially the closest pub in the UK to France, the views across the English channel are spectacular. The sun on our backs, the lapping of the water, our phone’s picking up French signal… we felt like we were on holiday.

It really is a mesmerising place - seeing the ferries going back and forward is probably the only reminder that you haven’t set foot into some bygone age. Fun fact… Ian Flemming, whilst holidaying in St Margaret’s Bay, was so inspired by the white cliffs and sweeping views that he wrote Moonraker whilst staying just a short walk from The Coastguard.

But what about the pub itself? Having visited once for a quick drink before we moved down, we knew this was a must to bring friends when we wanted to really show off our new ‘hood and take them somewhere they couldn’t experience anywhere else! We came here on a Sunday in the middle of summer and with Bailey we were offered seats either outside or in the bar area. Wanting some respite from the heat for our little one, we took the inside option.

The young team were really friendly and went out their way to make sure Bailey was settled in nicely - bringing some snacks, a bowl of water and lots of loving looks wishing for a quick cuddle!

Whilst Bailey snoozed, we tucked into a fillet of sea bass, a portion of fish and chips, plus two roast dinners - washed down with cooling lager shandies and a glass of rosé. The drink selection is fine - it includes some traditional Kent breweries alongside more macro stuff, but in all honesty this isn’t a place you’d come for either the food or drink. Please don’t take that as a negative comment, everything was outstanding and we’ll certainly be back many times, but it’s selling point is its location and views - when you’ve got something that special, well everything else just takes care of itself.

And with that, we 'retired' to the beer garden for one last cooling drink before heading home for an ice cream. Consider our friends suitably 'wowed'

Pints and Paws overall summary

• What did we have? 2 roast dinners, 1 fillet of sea bass and a portion of fish and chips; 3 lager shandies and a glass of rosé

• How much did it cost? £100 including service

• How would we describe it? Just wow! A hidden gem of a pub with a view to kill for…

• Did Bailey enjoy himself? It was a very hot day and all he really needed to enjoy himself was some shade. The staff made sure he got that and that shows a knowledgeable and caring team

• Venue Website: https://thecoastguard.co.uk