There are genuine cobwebbed windows in the toilets at the Castle Inn in Chiddingstone, near the castle. Its not difficult to understand the attraction of the place for the numerous tv and film production companies that use the 14th century inn for films such as "A Room with a View" and "Elizabeth" to name but two.

The buildings and grounds are exquisitely beautiful - two bars, a restaurant and sumptuous gardens with a tiny bridge across a (largely) unrunning stream in which to enjoy your ale or food. There is lots of room outside with borders stuffed with improbable clusters of exotic flowers and shrubs and families are welcomed. There is a kids menu, and outside bar for the occasional hot summer sunny days. And the food is good too.

Service can be wayward - there are two kitchens and if one of your party wants something from the bar menu and another wants something from the restaurant menu you’ve had it - but there is an underlying sense of dry humour and, to be honest, tension that makes the eating and drinking experience unpredictable but, ultimately, rewarding. Starters of Chicken Liver Parfait and Tomato tartlet were subtle and divine, and mains of Risotto and Rump steak were timely, delicious and, oh joy, hot. An oik behind us asked for the Rump steak well-done but without the red wine sauce and, although I probably would have shown him the door, he was treated with mild amusement. Summer puddings outside in the warm sunshine were rich, sweet and spiky by the spoonful and the whole wonderful, delicious experience unforgettable. A fantastic place to visit - bring your sense of humour with you and you will be well rewarded. M