That the pretty market town of Faversham, curled up next to the river Swain, should have such good pubs is little surprise; it’s home to Shepherd Neame, which has some of the prettiest places in Kent. The Elephant is not one of theirs; here is a freehouse that runs to its own rules.
The thing people rave about is the beers — there’s a broad, ever-changing choice, the through-line being quality. It’s a pub of worn wooden floors and velvet-capped stools, of snug booths, of naval posters, ships’ lights and a helm on the wall. If it’s warm out, the garden slowly fills.
The Elephant is a pub the way all pubs were: somewhere for the evenings, for a drink and a chat, for nodding at the other locals. There’s no food and no music — save for some live, every now and then — but somehow, it’s all the better for it. Eat elsewhere, but cosy up in here.
31 The Mall, Faversham, ME13 8JN, 07976 762114