Lakeside Cafe in Tonbridge and Malling

It must have been a couple of years since the last time we were here but the cafe is just as good as it was then. It is light and airy with plenty of seating, both inside and outside. Even though it was late when we dropped in, very close to closing time, the friendly staff were quite happy to serve us and our freshly made drinks were up to the usual good NT standard and tasted good.

Love this Costa. Staff are always friendly and the atmosphere is lovely.

Myself and a group of friends decided to do a circular walk starting in this pretty village and ending with a pub lunch. Unusually we had not read the pub reviews in advance. What a wonderful surprise! Although we had not booked were were immediately made very welcome and accommodated in the atmospheric dining part of the pub. The very extensive menu including all the favourites alongside many specials made it difficult to choose but we were all very happy with the quality and portions of our varying options . Of particular note were the home made nachos . The pudding choice was also great ,. Huge portions , good prices and home made. The meringue and the banana waffle were the favourites. The fantastic food was surpassed by the wonderful service. Nothing was too much trouble. we were addressed by name and really put at our ease. Furthermore we mentioned we were celebrating a friends birthday and a beautiful home made mini Victoria spinge complete with candle was presented Thank you all sooo much for a really exceptional experience all round Jacqui carol ( birthday girl), David, Rob judy , Ann and Julia

I have visited the Friars many times over the years, very rarely do I use the tea room as years ago I had an awful experience with the staff being rude to us there. After what must be 7 years I thought we would try again. Sadly the staff were still rude and disinterested. The food is basic and good, the environment is of course wonderful so it’s such a shame that the staff can’t make that little bit of effort to make someone’s day. This is a place with many visitors after all. Of a team of 4 that I could see, 3 were looking in their phones and the lady that served us could just about be bothered to talk to us. I’ll give it a go in another 7 years maybe 👎🏼

It needs a better system where the restaurant is. Long queues need more staff members clearing tables to minimise length of queuing. Many people queuing are elderly and cannot spend long time standing around. Staff are friendly and helpful. There was plenty of outside seating, but cold weather people didn't want to sit outside. Perhaps if they were to cover the outside during the winter months, then it would reduce the time people are waiting to be seated.