THE WALNUT TREE, ALDINGTON

The inn known as the Walnut Tree was built during the reign of Richard II (1377-1399) and started life as no more than a timbered framed wattle and daub hut with a thatched roof. In the mid-15th century, a small bedroom was added at a higher level - reached by ladder - and by the turn of the 16th century, a number of improvements had been carried out and the main dwelling was enlarged.

Ale was brewed here in the 17th century and a licence to sell ales and ciders was granted. During the Napoleonic Wars.

Aldington was the stronghold of the "Aldington Gang" - an infamous band of smugglers who roamed the marshes and shores of Kent. High up on the southern side of the pub is a small window, through which the gang would shine a signal to their confederates on Aldington Knoll. The ghost of George Ransley, a bygone smuggler, is reputed to haunt the inn and many strange happenings have been reported.

The Walnut Tree has an excellent restaurant which serves fine food (sizzling grillstones, oldest form of cooking, you cook your meat on stones on the table) as well as bar meals. The pub's opposite the village cricket green, there's ample car parking space and a lovely beer garden.