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Exploring Belltinge, Tankerton and the Isle of Sheppey
Belltinge is a picturesque coastal spot in Kent, nestled within Herne Bay, famous for its beautiful views and charming beach huts. Tankerton, which used to be called Tankerton-on-Sea, emerged as a popular seaside destination in the late 1800s, featuring a grid pattern designed for vacationers. The Isle of Sheppey boasts a fascinating history that stretches back to prehistoric eras, with notable Viking invasions documented in the 9th century. Additionally, it played a significant role in naval operations and was home to dockyards set up by Samuel Pepys in the 17th century.
Today, I’m exploring some delightful micropubs in Kent, each with its own vibe and offerings. I kick things off at Copper Pottle, which has been around since 2015 and is loved for its welcoming décor and selection of local cask ales. Next up is The Tankerton Arms, opened in 2013, which strives to foster a sense of community in Tankerton with its vibrant décor and a cosy back area perfect for get-togethers. Then there’s The Heritage, the first micropub on the Isle of Sheppey since 2014, where the focus is on conversation rather than distractions, complete with some historical artifacts. Finally, I check out The Pilots’ Rest, a new spot featuring aviation-themed décor that celebrates local history while providing a friendly place for the community to gather.
Copper Pottle
My first call of the day yesterday was to Copper Pottle. This is a cosy micropub in Beltinge that opened on June 26, 2015. It was founded by business partners Gary Pottle and Gavin Elgar, who cleverly used their name to create the pub’s distinctive title. It is now run by their son Ricky who it was great to meet and chat to. The word “pottle” is an old term for a measure of four pints of beer. The space was transformed from a former pet food shop into a friendly spot for both locals and visitors.
Inside, you’ll find a charming mix of mismatched furniture and a small service counter where drinks are brought directly to your table instead of being served from a typical bar. The décor is a fun blend of styles, with the ceiling decorated with colourful, open umbrellas that add a whimsical touch to the atmosphere. This playful design sets a cheerful vibe for guests. The seating includes a coordinated set of wooden tables and chairs to the left of the entrance, along with metal cask stools topped with cushions scattered around, and a central upright circular table for those who prefer to stand.
On the bar a selection of 4 cask ales all from local breweries. I went with “Maunsell Bitter” from local Shivering Sands Brewery. A delicious dark amber beer, some great bitter flavours with an American twist.
The Tankerton Arms
Next is a bus ride to The Tankerton Arms. This is a cosy micropub nestled in Tankerton, a suburb of Whitstable. It opened its doors on March 15, 2013, thanks to Nigel Ranger and his family. The pub pays tribute to an earlier establishment of the same name that was a cherished local spot until it closed around 1999. The original Tankerton Arms was located on Tower Hill and was well-loved for its friendly vibe before it was turned into residential flats. The new Tankerton Arms strives to recreate that sense of community and warmth in a more intimate environment. In March 2018, it relocated to a larger space, previously the HSBC Bank.
Inside, you’ll find a bright room with tall wooden tables that encourage conversation among guests. The décor features bunting and images of Thames sailing barges and sea forts, giving it a delightful seaside feel. There’s also a snug area at the back that can fit 10-12 people, perfect for meetings and gatherings.
A great warm welcome in here from Jack behind the bar and Glen from Mind the Gap Micropub. A great selection on the bar of 4 cask beers, 2 keg beers and a wide variety of ciders. “Swallow Dive” from Wantsum Brewery in here. A beer brewed for the Six Nations. A super tasty, malty and hoppy beer which is very smooth and easy drinking.
The Heritage
My first visit on Saturday was to The Heritage, which is situated in Halfway on the Isle of Sheppey and holds the distinction of being the island’s very first micropub, having opened in January 2014. Housed in a former post office, it has evolved into a community gathering place that prioritises conversation over distractions like music or TV. Co-owned by Melvin and Margaret Hopper, the pub has ties to the Charrington brewing legacy, featuring various artifacts that celebrate this heritage.
Inside, you’ll find a warm and welcoming atmosphere that embodies the essence of a micropub. With two levels of seating, it offers a cosy space for customers to relax. The friendly vibe makes it a perfect spot to enjoy quality beers while soaking in the local history. Overall, the pub beautifully blends charm and historical significance in its design.
It was great to meet owner Melvin alongside Julie on the bar and was great chatting with you both. On the bar a selection of 3 cask ales including one brewed to the original Charrington Brewery recipe which was fantastic to see. My beer choice in here was “Fall Out” from Hop Fuzz Brewery. A moreish light and easy drinking session pale ale. Full of flavour.
The Pilots’ Rest
Next was a short bus ride to Sheerness. Here I visited The Pilots’ Rest. A fantastic Micropub that opened its doors on August 10, 2023. Formerly known as The Flying Sheep, it boasts a deep-rooted connection to the local community and aviation history. This establishment was even a runner-up for the Swale CAMRA Pub of the Year in 2020. After shutting down in May 2023, Neil ‘Rock’ Webb took the initiative to breathe new life into it, keeping the aviation-themed décor while adding a variety of real ales, quality ciders, and Belgian beers. The Pilots’ Rest aims to be a social gathering spot for the community, blending its historical significance with modern offerings that celebrate Sheppey’s legacy in aircraft production, all while providing a friendly atmosphere for both locals and visitors.
The Isle of Sheppey holds a notable place in British aviation history, being the site of the first aircraft factory established by the Short Brothers in 1909. They started by producing licensed versions of the Wright Flyer and went on to create ground-breaking aircraft, including the first twin-engine plane. The Royal Aero Club was based in Eastchurch, where famous aviators like John Moore-Brabazon made significant flights. During World War I, the area served as a training ground for naval pilots, and after the war, it became RAF Eastchurch, continuing its military aviation legacy until its closure in 1946.
Inside, the pub is designed to be warm and welcoming, reflecting its aviation theme. The décor features elements that pay homage to the area’s historical ties to flight and aircraft manufacturing, showcasing model planes and other memorabilia. The layout consists of a cosy single room with a small servery in one corner, comfortably accommodating around 25 customers. The seating includes a few tables and chairs, often arranged in a casual manner, enhancing the pub’s laid-back atmosphere.
A great warm welcome in here from Rock and was brilliant chatting to you. On the bar a choice of 2 cask ales to choose from. I opted to go with “Leveson Buck” from Titsey Brewing Co. A fresh tasting Session IPA with some fantastic hop flavours coming through when drinking.
Micropub Adventures 
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