Carpenters Arms, Coldred

A rare survivor - an intact 1960s refit and still a basic drinkers pub. In 1965 Fremlins doubled the size of the bar by way of a flat roof extension which also brought the toilets inside and this simple two roomed pub has changed very little since. The pub has been in the same family since 1912 with former licensee Daphne Fagg, who recently died aged 92, having been in charge for over 40 years. From the front door go down three steps into the small carpeted Public Bar which has a 1965 bar counter with Formica panelled front and Formica top, and while the Formica covered lower bar back shelving and a drawer for a till remain, in 2011 the utilitarian 1960s bar back with ‘Fremlins’ illuminated panel at the top and glass shelves was removed. The 1930s looking brick fireplace is also from 1965 says Mrs Fagg and there is two sections of 1960s fixed seating and a baffle by the door.

The small carpet tiled Saloon Bar on the left is accessed by a door from the bar and it also has an exterior door where you go down 4 steps. The room is almost wedge-shaped with a long 1960s bar counter set at an angle with a Formica front and top, also a pair of handpumps which have CO2 dispensers fitted to them. The Saloon Bar still retains its bar back with 'Fremlins' illuminated panel at the top and glass shelves and there is another 1960s fireplace, leatherette cushioned fixed seating and classic 1960s small low Formica top tables. Note the very 1960s louvres near the door and a tea chest base for a skiffle band which is used every Sat night.

In the garden there is an outside i.e. open to the elements skittle alley (the pub has three teams) with one covered side. The alley is of concrete and has a camber with a difference of 2 inches between the top and sides. The Dover District Skittles summer league has three divisions for men (Sunday evenings) and women (Wed eves). Has up to three real ales served from casks on top of the bar; no draught lager, only bottles! Most Sat evenings a musician (Country & Western) turns up from Dover to play.

There are annual competitions since 1970s for Marrow, Pumpkin, Sunflower (height), Onion with a fortnight between them and cups for the winners - then the items are auctioned for charity. Making an occasional appearance in the bar is the rare pub game of Daddlums (Kentish Skittles) - Dover branch of CAMRA has a table with legs that can be removed enabling it to be transported in an estate car. Closed lunchtimes; Open 6 (7 Sun) to 11.