05/04/25 – Broadstairs

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Discover the Charm of Broadstairs Breweries and Micropubs

Broadstairs boasts a fascinating history that stretches back to ancient times. Initially called Bradstow, it was established by the Jutes Hengist and Horsa in 449 AD. In the 19th century, the town transformed into a sought-after seaside destination, drawing in famous personalities such as Charles Dickens, who drew creative inspiration from the area. During the Victorian period, the town enhanced its beaches and infrastructure, with Viking Bay emerging as a major highlight. Nowadays, Broadstairs continues to exude its historic appeal, hosting yearly events that honour its literary legacy and maritime history.

Mind the Gap, a micropub that opened its doors in July 2016, boasts a distinctive railway theme adorned with memorabilia, creating a nostalgic vibe for its guests. The Royston, another micropub that debuted in September 2021, combines Victorian, Steampunk, and Art-Deco elements, providing a cosy atmosphere along with a varied drink menu. Gadds’ Brewery, which started in 2002, sparked renewed interest in real ale locally, overcoming initial doubts by prioritizing sustainability and quality. The Magnet, a vibrant micropub that launched in February 2019, offers a welcoming ambiance with its quirky décor. Lastly, The Four Candles, known as Britain’s smallest brewpub, opened in 2012 and emphasizes community and unique brewing experiences, serving homemade ales straight from the cellar.

Mind the Gap

My first visit here was to Mind the Gap. This is an awesome micropub that opened on July 14, 2016, after a fun preview the night before. It’s known for its cool railway theme, which appeals to train lovers and casual visitors alike. The place is filled with a great assortment of railway memorabilia, like vintage photos and model trains that zip along the ceiling, giving it a nostalgic vibe. Theres even a wall of train tickets, some dating back a few years.

It was started with the goal of creating a friendly space for both locals and tourists, though it has since changed ownership now run by Glen who I met on Friday. Inside, you’ll find a fantastic collection of railway artifacts, including old photographs and model displays that really add to the décor. The pub is set up over two levels; the ground floor features a cosy seating area with tables and chairs, while the upper level is where the bar counter is located for serving drinks. The walls are lined with various train-related items, including ticket collections from customers, which add to its unique charm. The comfortable seating arrangements make it a perfect place for a quick drink or a longer hangout.

A warm welcome from Drew who was in last year when I visited and is very knowledgeable about the beers being sold. On the bat today a choice of 3 cask ales along with a number of ciders and other options. A great local music act “Graham Corbould” was providing some excellent songs. I went with “Olicana Pale” from The Canterbury Ales. A really enjoyable session pale ale using Olicana Hops.

The Royston

A short walk under the railway bridge brings me next to   The Royston. Andy Smith opened The Royston Micropub to create a community hub that pays tribute to his late father, Roy and he has certainly done this. It was Initially intended for Chandos Road but the pub found its home at 2 The Broadway, launching in September 2021 in a space that used to be a gift shop.

This chic micropub blends Victorian, Steampunk, and Art-Deco styles, offering a cosy and inviting vibe. Even the restrooms are Instagram-worthy! In the seating area, there’s an impressive chiller cabinet displaying four cask beers and a diverse selection of ciders, along with various canned options. These eye-catching cold room units really enhance the micropub’s atmosphere. 

A few awards have also been wont which is fantastic to see, including Thanet CAMRA pub of the year several times and CAMRA East Kent Pub of the Year 2024.

A fantastic warm welcome as always from Andy and was great catching up again. Brilliant service from both James and Liam as well. Got chatting to Richard and Jo who are regulars also. Drink wise a great choice of 5 cask ales and a wide selection of ciders to choose from. A Hazy Pale Ale from Leeds based Northern Monk Brewery was my choice in here. “Old Flax Store” was brewed with Waimea, Ella and Strata hops and was super tasty and delicious.

GADDs Brewery

My next visit was a short taxi ride out from Broadstairs to GADDS’ Brewery. Gadds’ Brewery, also known as Ramsgate Brewery, was founded in 2002 by Eddie Gadd in Ramsgate, Kent. It started out in a rundown seafront restaurant and aimed to produce Real Ale during a time when the local beer scene was facing tough times. Even though local pub owners were doubtful about the demand for cask ale, Gadds’ quickly became a hit after hosting the first CAMRA beer festival in the area in 2006. This event was a game changer, sparking a renewed interest in craft beer and cask ales throughout East Kent. Later that same year, the brewery expanded to a bigger space on Pysons Road Industrial Estate to support its growing business.  

Throughout the years, Gadds’ has stayed true to its focus on quality and sustainability, investing in solar power and modern cleaning methods. The brewery has also built strong partnerships with local hop farmers to improve its beer quality. Even with challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic, which led Eddie to shift towards home deliveries and online sales, Gadds’ has continued to flourish and is now recognized as one of the most innovative independent breweries in the UK. Today, it remains committed to creating outstanding beers while promoting sustainability in the brewing world.

A great welcome from Maxine this evening at the taproom, and a lovely venue inside with a mix of seating alongside some outdoor seating at the front. On the bar a choice of 6 cask beers and 3 keg options. A nice mix of styles to choose from. Also a brewery shop offering bottles and other merchandise. It was great chatting to locals Julie and Gary in here as well. Here I went with the collaboration beer between Gadds and Peterborough based Oakham Ales. “Invicta” is a mix of Goldings and Cascade hops to give a delicious floral and zesty pale ale.

The Magnet

Back into Broadstairs and to The Magnet. This kicked off in February 2019 as a micropub. It’s named after a boys’ magazine that featured the character Billy Bunter, created by a local resident. Owners Will and Sam have a genuine love for beer and cider, which really shines through in the overall vibe of the place.

Inside, the pub has a warm and welcoming feel, with wooden seating and exposed brick walls. A standout feature is the beer bottle chandelier that adds a quirky flair, while large windows let in plenty of natural light. The décor is playful, with funny photos in the restrooms that add to the pub’s character. The bar is well-stocked with a rotating array of ales and ciders, making it a lively centrepiece.

On the bar a fantastic choice of 4 cask ales alongside a wide choice of ciders and keg options. Great to see it so busy including the outdoor area to the side, but a great welcome and quick service. A delicious and easy drinking IPA “Searchlight” in here from Shivering Sands brewery was my choice in here.

The Four Candles

My last visit in Broadstairs and my last call of the trip was to The Four Candles. This holds the title of Britain’s tiniest brewpub. Launched in 2012 by Mike Beaumont, it draws inspiration from the iconic “Four Candles” sketch from The Two Ronnies on BBC, penned by Ronnie Barker after a trip to a local hardware shop. This pub brews its own ales right on the premises and has quickly become a favourite spot for real ale fans. Starting with just £2,500, Beaumont turned a former deli into a distinctive micropub that focuses on community and creative brewing methods.

The interior is cosy and intimate, capturing the spirit of a microbrewery. With high tables and limited seating, it creates a welcoming atmosphere for patrons to savour their drinks. Instead of a traditional bar, cask ales are served straight from the cellar where they’re brewed, offering a unique experience. Light snacks like pork scratchings and cheese are on hand, adding to the laid-back charm of this delightful spot.

As always a warm welcome from Mike, the board today offering 2 of his own beers alongside a guest. I had to indulge in some of the Canterbury cheese with crackers and chutney. Finished the trip off nicely. In here I started with a Session Pale called “Dr Rudi”, followed by “Target”, a super tasty and easy drinking Bitter. Both brewed on the premises.