Real Ale Way, Hayes

This family-owned micropub opened in July 2018, and quickly established itself as a popular venue for both local drinkers and rail commuters alike. The pub is just over the road from the entrance to Hayes station, and is served by numerous bus routes.

The interior is surprisingly large, the main area being around the bar with mirrored shelving behind. There is a range of high stools and tables, corner bench seating and a drinking shelf within subdued lighting. A smaller room leads off with light coming in from the window with plenty of tables and seating. Wooden flooring, framed prints and mirrors complement the cream coloured walls.

Up to eight cask ales are available, almost all of which are sourced from smaller breweries in Kent, dispensed by gravity from a cold room at the back. These are all listed on a board by the bar. The house bitter and pale cask ales are from the Tonbridge and Larkins breweries respectively.

A house keg lager is also available from the Westerham brewery (Helles Belles): Please note that this is misleadingly listed on the "cask ales" board.

A range of still ciders are also available from Biddenden, Dudda's Tun and Kent Cider.

The Kentish theme extends to other drinks, including wine and gin, and also to the bar snacks. On Sunday afternoons, there is usually a complimentary cheeseboard.

Originally part of a shopping parade built in the early 1930s, the distinctive premises were once a bank and then an accountancy office.

Local CAMRA branch joint runner-up Pub of the Year in 2019 and 2020/2021.

Instagram page is @therealaleway