The Horseshoe & Castle in Medway

Had a long drive and arrived at 16:30, checked in and ordered food Sunday roast) as the kitchen was due to close at 5pm. Went to the room to drop the bags and came back for the food, it was gorgeous! The room was superb with all that you need for a night or two. The mattress was very comfortable, pillows were hard but there were alternatives underneath the bed. Breakfast was lovely (full English). Check out was at 10:30. Lovely stay and if we're back in that area we will happily return!

From the moment we arrived at the Horseshoe and Castle in Cooling, we were warmly welcomed and truly looked after from start to finish. This charming small hotel and pub exudes a friendly, local vibe that made our stay memorable. One of the highlights of this spot is its location—just a lovely 9-minute walk to Cooling Castle, perfect for a relaxing stroll. We opted not to drive and instead took the high-speed train from London to Strood, a quick 26-minute journey. From there, it was an easy taxi ride to the hotel, taking about 22-26 minutes. On Sunday night, we were greeted not just by the staff but also by friendly locals, which added an extra layer of warmth to our stay. We struck up a conversation with a lovely couple, exchanged stories, and even tried a new drink together. These kinds of genuine interactions are what make places like this stand out. A special thank-you goes to our host, Kate, who went above and beyond to make us feel at home. Her hospitality, engaging conversations, and warm spirit truly made our visit unforgettable. Kate, we wish you all the best in achieving your dream of moving to Canada! The rooms were spacious and immaculately clean, providing a comfortable retreat after a day of exploring. A standout feature was the included breakfast—a thoughtful touch that was the perfect start to the day. The full English breakfast, enjoyed by the cosy fire, is highly recommended! If you’re looking for a break from the city and want to reconnect with real people, the *Horseshoe and Castle* is the perfect destination. Put your phone away and immerse yourself in the friendly atmosphere, charming locals, and serene countryside. We can’t wait to return and highly recommend this gem for anyone seeking an authentic and relaxing escape. Thank you for a wonderful stay!

We went to stay the night and have a meal, I had a tomahawk steak, it was the best stake I have ever had, and I have had quite a few all over, 5 star service, excellent host, highly recommend the Horseshoe and Castle,

Tasty brews and even tastier barmaids. All set in a traditional pub in an idyllic location. A pub like it should be.

Service was very slow and the food was not good for price you paid and amount you got for your money !!!🤔

We came for Sunday afternoon roast dinner and it was really good. They are the first place I’ve been to locally that has Hawkstone Lager on draft so it was a winner straight away. Nice that the pub is very local to us so will certainly return

Food superb, service 1st class , my only complaint(if any) is that it's a tad out of the way

This pub is amazing, brilliant and fantastic the food is really good and the people who work there are really really really nice 🙂🙂🙂

Amazing food a real beautiful building a true English country pub and the menu was great something for all to enjoy very reasonable, and a wonderful selection of desserts and drinks. Our family had a wonderful time and I honestly take my hat off to the staff and the landlord was a real host and we were comfortable and enjoyed the experience of his pub, I take my hat off to the landlord.

Had this recommended to us, so thought we would visit. Nice busy Friday evening pub which serves really good food. I have the ham egg and chips, lovely cooked tasty ham along with 2 eggs and food chips. My wife had the steak and ale pie which looked and she confirmed was excellent. For dessert we had creme brulee and cheese board . Both really good too. A nice ale on too . Service was good too Keep it up guys well worth a visit

Perfect accommodation for a wedding at cooling castle barn. Room was clean, bed very comfy and staff friendly and helpful. Even had an option of memory foam pillows which makes a big difference (never had anywhere offer this before), an full sized bath towels. Breakfast was included and to see the whole cooked breakfast was gluten free was excellent -very tasty and many GF options at breakfast. Would recommend staying here. We unfortunately don’t live local otherwise I think we’d be regulars for the food.

Perfect accommodation for a wedding at cooling castle barn. Room was clean, bed very comfy and staff friendly and helpful. Even had an option of memory foam pillows which makes a big difference (never had anywhere offer this before), and full sized towels. Breakfast was included and to see the whole cooked breakfast was gluten free was excellent -very tasty and many GF options at breakfast. Would recommend staying here. We unfortunately don’t live local otherwise I think we’d be regulars for the food.

Went for dinner with friends. Great food and a good selection on the menus. Had our dog with us so sat in the bar by the log burner. Lovely location with plenty of parking. The staff were friendly and prices were reasonable. Will certainly go back another time.

What a gem of a pub with rooms. We had a wonderful one night stay. Evening meal was excellent, breakfast amazing, the room was beautifully decorated and clean, the staff brilliant. Highly recommended.

It'd been a long time since I'd eaten at this country pub, but it was a convenient location for lunch with my cousins. I booked in advance, but needn't have bothered for that time on a Monday, although it got quite busy later with people dropping in for a drink or a meal. I had their version of Hunter's chicken, which was very nice (the sauteed new potatoes were lovely, but I couldn't finish them), and my cousins shared two filled baguettes (and struggled to finish them!). The wine was good, too. Plenty of parking on site. This would be a convenient spot for a bite or a drink before or after visiting the local RSPB reserve at Northward Hills.

Stopped off with our cycling club night ride Gravesend CTC 15 plus of us fantastic atmosphere great friendly staff lots of choice of beers and wines

Friendly staff greeted us, even though it was Tomahawk steak night. Good range for Kentish ales and lagers. Usual collection of international lagers, wines and spirit. Bar food, and restaurant available, However, I believe the kitchen closes at 21:30.

Lovely wedding at Cooling Castle Barn and decided to have a look around before venturing home. We happened upon what appeared to be a quaint country pub. Upon entering we stood there for a little while before trying to attract the attention of the girl sat at her computer. This was our first mistake, and having the audacity to ask if there was any chance of a bite to eat was our second! “Bar or Restaurant” she huffed at us, with a face like a dropped pie. We chose the restaurant and quickly regretted it. Entering into a darkened room that would’ve looked outdated in 1973, we sat down amongst an array of stuffed animals, all of which looked happier than the girl we had recently disturbed. A forlorn stags head stared at me whilst I chomped on the driest burger I’ve ever had the misfortune to purchase and my wife said the fish was completely dry and void of any taste….although the chips were ok. We overheard Dropped Pie telling another couple that the owner himself had killed the stag a few years ago…..what a hero! All in all the whole experience was at best dreadful, but we have laughed about it with friends since. One of them googled the place and kindly sent me Food Standards Agency Rating, followed by several laughing emojis. I was quite surprised to see it so high!

Absolutely top place to go food was first class,service first class ,highly recommend this venue

We came here with friends who said don't judge a book by its cover! I'm so glad we didn't! The food and service were fantastic!

Shocking! “Greeted” by someone who claimed to be the manager and who was clearly having a bad day, judging by her appearance and attitude. She couldn’t have been ruder to the staff working with her, even though they were far more professional than she could ever dream of being. The mediocre food and service had us wondering if we were being filmed and someone was going to appear and tell us this was all a joke! Unfortunately, the bill arrived and no one was laughing, except the owners of this ridiculously overpriced establishment. Check out the bar prices and menu before you book, daylight robbery!! I can only assume the rating has been achieved by family and friends. AVOID!

Very helpful staff, excellent breakfast

Lovely Sunday roast at this quirky country pub. Nice atmosphere with friendly staff. But beware! The food portions are huge!

Had the Tomahawk steak..... Amazing!

Wonderful food, friendly, helpful staff and a great evening. Visited with our 8 year old - children’s meal menu was great with lots of variety. Adults menu had lots of choice and it was all delicious and homemade.

Lovely young lady called Honey just popped in for a drink

Stayed here with my wife before a wedding the next day. Dinner was absolutely amazing, and the service was great (even though the place was full). The room was really lovely, and clean. Comfortable bed and sleep. It even had a kettle with free coffee, tea and hot chocolate! The room included breakfast, and I just admit it's one of the best full English breakfast I've ever had. The chef/owner also took time for a lovely chat about the place and his love for food. Recommend.

We had the most amazing stay on 14th May 2024 the room was excellent very clean the shower was amazing proper sized bath towels modern facilities. The staff were welcoming chatty down to earth nothing was to much trouble the full English breakfast spot on. We definitely will be back thank you so much for amazing stay

Only stayed for a meal with friends, atmosphere was very nice and chilled,service was off the chain,location was beautiful,I would defo go for another meal there people's . Well done to the staff for their service and a great meal .

Had a brilliant meal here. The waitress was brilliant. Food was superb. I’ve eaten all over the world and this was superb food.

Great little spot for lunch with the dog as it is dog-friendly indoors. We got the loaded fries and the presentation was amazing. Owner was very chatty and friendly. Will definitely be back.

The most amazing steak experience. Steak was cooked to perfection & on par with some high end steakhouses I have been to. The staff are very accommodating & can’t fault an amazing evening

Visited for Sunday Lunch, beautiful food, served promptly. Lovely pub in a countryside setting very friendly. Will return!

We came here for an early lunch, not staying unfortunately, after doing a dry run to Cooling Castle Barn, just up the road, for our daughter’s wedding. It looked deserted but only because we were on the dot at 12. The bar is a traditional pub with a log burner, which was lit, a dining area and a bar area. Soon enough people started to come in and it was clear they were regulars and immediately at home. The two ladies who were the front staff were exactly right, friendly, attentive and helpful to everyone and the family with a small person who enchanted everyone. The beer was Shep’s, apparently specially made for the six nations and was exceptional. We ordered their hand made beef pies and gravy along with the usual sides. It arrived in good time one with (real) chips and the other mash and was very enjoyable, really unable to fault. Fully recommended.

Horrible fish and chips - dry and overcooked. Good crème brûlée. Expensive for what we had. The place needs a good clean.

Great local pub. Good food. Friendly service. Good stop off for walking.

Stopped by on a walk for light snack.

Great Sunday veggie roast, huge and tasty. Staff are friendly and attentive. Wish I lived near here and visit often, Highly recommended.

Family lunch at the Horsehoe and Castle today. Great home cooked food, wide choice and excellent service. We liked it so much we are gping back again on Thursday evening!

I’ve been going to this pub for many years now and the food is of a very high standard, Stuart & Tim are both brilliant chefs, Bar staff are always welcoming to 😁

We hadn’t booked but were able to be accommodated for Sunday roast and totally recommend sea bass and pulled pork It was very busy and I didn’t notice any plates with any food on it!

We have visited this restaurant a number of times over the last couple of years. We have never had a bad meal. The food is prepared and cooked on the premises using local ingredients where possible. I have enjoyed many roast dinners here, but today I decided to try the Steak and Ale pie. Wow, it was delicious, packed full of lean soft beef. There is a pie week in a couple of weeks where there will be all sorts of pies to try. I will definitely be paying them a visit. The owner, chef and staff are all very friendly and are happy to talk about their food.

Booked to eat here yesterday (18.02.24) to celebrate a friends birthday, honestly the food was outstanding. I had the seabass and my friend the roast beef for main, we shared the starter of king prawns with garlic/chili sauce, and for desert he had apple/pear crumble and I had biscoff cheesecake. The Landlord was friendly and helpful, as for the chef, well he is the Landlords son and he definitely knows his way around a kitchen. Fantastic afternoon, great location and warm/friendly atmosphere with gorgeous food. We will definitely be back. Added bonus, dog friendly. 5* from me.

My partner and I come to the Horseshoe often. A few weeks ago we had their special night ‘Tomahawk Thursday’, we brought our families. Fantastic value for money with a superbly cooked steak and amazing chips & sauce. Today we just came in for a couple of pints and we decided to share their fries loaded with slow cooked beef brisket with their house meat gravy. Succulent and moreish is not sufficient to describe this delicacy. I could have eaten 7 portions! I find the horseshoe and castle consistently provides quality food at a fair price. Also, they offered our furry friend a bowl of water without hesitation.

Excellent food, excellent people. Chef Stuart and staff were courteous, friendly, and accommodating. The steak pie was delicious!

Was very disappointed with the lunch we had there. Menu described a sourdough baguette ploughman's as butchers ham with cheddar chutney pickle and lettuce with beef tomato. I maybe asking too much but I expected chunky cheese thick sliced ham maybe small side of chutney at least for the price just shy of £10. What we received was a decency size pice if sourdough baguette very thin small squares of ham ( looked like packet) And a layer of grated cheese topped with sliced gherkin sone iceburg lettuce and a ring of thinly sliced tomato, about a teaspoon of pickle if that and some slices of onion I think it said apple but none there. Not with the money. Atmosphere good staff very friendly just let down by the food maybe they should just call it ham and cheese baguette then the expectation wouldn't have been so high.

Delicious meal in Charles Dickens country. I had the sea-bass with lemon and cockle butter, which was perfectly cooked and extremely tasty. My wife and daughter had the homemade beef and ale pie which they also rated highly. Service was also pleasant and efficient. Great find!

I’d like to start off by saying that my partner and I are frequents of the Horseshoe and Castle. We’ve been attending several times over the last two years, and each time we’ve had the pleasure of eating, we’ve both thoroughly enjoyed our experience. This occasion however, has really let us down and we’re extremely disappointed; it’s a massive shame as we truly love the H&C. I’d also like to mention that all of the serving staff were absolutely amazing, extremely hospitable and friendly. The manager/owner however, was extremely arrogant and dismissive in this instance. We had a table for lunch at 1400. We began with crispy satay chicken from the special menu for starter (we shared). It was delicious and we thoroughly enjoyed it. For mains I ordered the wing of skate from the special menu, I’ve had it before and it’s extremely good. My partner ordered the mussels with bread, with a spicy tomato sauce. The mussels also could be chosen with a white wine/cream sauce. My main course came, and the waitress very politely stated that the chef, of whom we were informed was new; despite it not being our problem, had prepared the mussels mistakenly in the white wine/cream sauce, and we were asked if we wanted it changed to the tomato/chilli sauce as intended; we politely asked it to be brought out correctly. My partners mussels came out again 2/3 minutes afterwards. Immediately I could see the sauce was a pale purple colour. I dipped some bread in the sauce and immediately tasted cream. In my opinion with the amount of time it took to come back from the kitchen, I believe the chef separated the mussels from the sauce and added red wine/tomato puree to the sauce, recombined them and served it thinking we wouldn’t notice, there was also zero hint of chilli. It was not what we ordered at all, and I believe the kitchen tried to pull the wool over our eyes. Although not an intolerance, my partner much prefers a tomato base over a creamy base as she has a minor issue with dairy (didn’t want to mention as we ordered absolutely nothing with dairy in it). I’m sorry, but the fact that the chef is new is not only irrelevant but also not our problem whatsoever. As this was happening, I flipped my wing of skate over and my partner found a long hair embedded into my fish. I notified the new bar staff and he removed it in an extremely professional and polite fashion. Could not fault front of house staff at all in all instances. We waited 5/10 minutes and my partner mentioned she no desired a main meal at all, the waitress kindly asked if we desired something else and she requested the skate as I had had. We changed her order to the skate, which was no issue at all. However, we had to wait approximately 20 minutes for it to arrive, at which point I had entirely finished my meal. We essentially had to watch each other eat. After we’d finished eating, I went to the bar to pay the bill. I was explaining my grievances politely to the helpful waitress (Ruby). I did suggest, however, that it was inappropriate for her to bear the brunt of this criticism as she bears no overarching responsibility for the outcome. She offered for me to speak with the manager/owner, a suggestion to which I agreed. The manager came out, in my opinion with an instant confrontational attitude. I explained the situation and that it should really be him addressing such issues of severity (our bill was in excess of £70). In response, he told me ‘thank you for telling me how to do my job’, and that he’d instructed the waitress to remove the mussels from the bill (an obvious result considering that they were entirely incorrect and not what we ordered at all). He then again repeated to state the fact that the chef was new, as if that excused the fact the mussel sauce came out purple (cream/red wine/ tomato) and that we both ate entirely separately. When I explained my partner switched her order to the skate, I mentioned that it was exquisite, however I forgot to mention at this time that I found a hair. When I then later mentioned that I found a hair in my food the manager then condescendingly said ‘I thought you just said it was exquisite?’, as if I was being dishonest. The entire time, the manager was not only dismissive but slightly condescending and aggressive despite extended efforts on both our parts to not be confrontational. No other adjustments were made to the bill whatsoever. And in fact, upon leaving, the owner joked to me that he advised that the mussels be removed, after I had paid the bill. All of these events combined, have resulted in our favourite cuisine in the area leaving a bitter taste in our mouths; with this being a huge shame as we not only recommend this establishment to our friends and family but had been looking forward to this excursion for several weeks as this was one of few and far between dates in the midst of a cost of living crisis; we had been saving for this especially. I’d like to again reiterate that the front of house staff have and always have been nothing but entirely professional, warm and friendly. Just a shame that the manager couldn’t receive constructive criticism.

Quaint little pub, with plenty of parking. I liked the “free house” vibe, after endless chain pubs. Really tempting menu with plenty of variety, and while not cheap, the food is of great quality, with decent portions and freshly cooked (not pinged!!) Between us we had fresh fish, chicken and pies. The sweets were cheesecake, crumble and churros. I had massive food envy when the Crumble turned up. We had to travel about an hour and a half to get there as it was near family, but we will be back again. Really really good. Thanks for having us.

The staff were very friendly & accommodating. The roast was really good and a good selection on the menu.Will definitely be going back

Nothing was too much trouble for the staff at this pub. Friendly, efficient, polite, the food was first class, hot and perfectly presented. There were nine of us for my wife's birthday. They looked after a cake we bought in and even helped us serve it. Such a lovely pub. such lovely people, thank you.

Pub looked lovely from outside so we popped in for a drink after long stretch of Saxon Way walk with the dog and asked about getting a taxi back to our car which seemed difficult so the barmaid offered us a lift back in her car at the end of her shift. What amazing hospitality and kindness! Will definitely be coming back to this pub when we resume our Saxon Way walk once more and will sample the food given the friendly service and great beer.

Searching around for a roast at last minute.com. Forgot about this gem of a pub had food here before and never been disappointed, but never a roast a bit dubious as there was a slot. Always sceptical with all roasts will aunt bessy be around? Well this is the best roast we have had for a long time when eating out. All local and fresh produce, nice friendly staff and reasonably priced. Will return.

We booked an outside table for our family birthday celebration and we were not disappointed in any way. The table was large and situated in a shady corner with grape vines growing above us.. Food was great mainly Sunday Roasts and the service was great. Will definitely be coming back.

Table of 8 with various requirements! All food was served hot and fresh. Serving staff lovely although we did witness one of the staff rolling her eyes at one request. Bar a bit cluttered but clean toilets and clean tables etc.

Lovely pub, great beer food was lovely, has been a few years since we visited last but will be back. Highly recommend

We booked in to the Horseshoe and Castle for an annual meet up with a group of our friends. The ambiance was warm and inviting and all of the staff went out of their way to ensure that we had a good evening. The Christmas meal was delicious and everyone in our group praised their selection. To avoid the drive/taxi home afterwards we had all booked accommodation, which was very clean and comfortable. The breakfast served the following morning was of an equally high standard experienced in our Christmas meal. Thanks to all staff we had a lovely evening, we will be visiting again.

Whent to the horseshoe and castle for a meal which is close to colling castle I say near its certainly not a walk but close by car The pub is loverly and the meal was very nice we will be going back but beware it's of the beaten track a little and the roads if travelling by night are unlit an ideal place to stay if you are going to colling castle for a wedding as the rooms look loverly theres plenty of place in the car park but beware some people might be offend by the stuffed animals that are in the restaurant but itnh's a loverly setting nice and quite They also cater for gluten free and the roast dinner if anything like the meal we had will be something I look forward to having on our return it's nice that these older places are still around well done to Kevin and vanessa

Staff could not have been more helpful and accommodating, breakfast was delicious, our room was comfortable and it is in a very scenic country setting.

We o my went in for a quite drink and ended up spending a few hours including a really good meal. Real home made food done well. The pies were spot on, actually special, maybe a bit more juice in the middle but that’s a critical comment. Main point is we will be going back. Staff are fun and friendly, meal, fun, a chat and maybe even a new regular pub for us.They are very accessible and egar to please. These guys are good too food at a good to cheap price. Well happy.

We recently stayed in one of the rooms at the Horseshoe & Castle when we were attending a wedding close by. We staying in the Annexe room out the back of the hotel, which was a good size and had a very comfy bed.The location if very good as it is was walking distance for Cooling Castle Barn where we were attending a wedding.The breakfast we had the next morning was delicious - I had the full English breakfast which included homemade hash browns which were made especially as one of our group had cheekily hinted how much she liked hash browns!Service was good and the staff very friendly. Would definitely recommend if you are going to an event at the Cooling Castle Barn.

Popped in on the of chance they could fit us in for lunch. Yes they had a table. Ordered two roast chicken dinners and one pasta dish with prawns. (no starters as we were having desserts).Service was friendly. Waited a while but chicken roast dinners were fine- I would have preferred mine a bit hotter and more gravy but just personal choice. Pasta was a really small portion, more like a starter than a main course. Certainly not a man size lunch.Two young girls serving both behind the bar and tables so I ordered desserts at the bar. After a wait of around ten minutes we were asked if we’d like dessert. Explained they’d been ordered. We were told it would be at least another 20 minutes. 1 cheesecake and 2 sticky toffee puddings, 30 minute wait. No thankyou! Paid the bill and left feeling disappointed. Don’t think we’ll go back.

We were heading for St James Church and saw the signpost for this pub. It was lunch time so we thought we’d give it a try. It is a proper old school family run pub (with 5 rooms if you fancy an overnight stay) the decor is pretty old and there’s a ramshackle collection of tables, chairs, comfy sofas. Plus horse brasses, a dartboard and old golf/cricket paraphernalia in boxes on the walls. A sunny beer garden out back and tables & chairs at the front which look out onto the quiet country lane. I loved it. The member of staff who served us was friendly and helpful.They have a very decent menu for lunch. We had fish and chips with mushy peas and tartare sauce. My haddock was the size of a small whale. Very tasty and great value for money. Good selection of draft and bottled beers and also plenty of Gin options !They also have themed food nights at the pub. A Mexican evening in September and a Thai one in October. Overall a really nice experience. Will definitely return here.

We came here today to have lunch and it was lovely, we moved several times as Our Son brought along his Dog, so we moved rightly so from the restaurant part to a dog friendly part and then we decided to move outside as it was a warm day and our Granddaughter (2 and a half) could explore with our help!Nothing was too much trouble and the food was delicious (we had the roast).We highly recommend this warm friendly Pub/restaurant and will be back.

Had a family meal here (never been here before) and will definatley return. Really lovely old pub, lots of pictures etc on walls, barmaid was really friendly and helpful especially regarding my vegan choices! Thankyou!! regarding ordering food, good pub type menu choice, very relaxed atmosphere, seemed to be enough parking for all in the pub. Can eat in bar area or restaurant plus there is a garden.Very quiet location

We stopped here for lunch, and when we arrived it was fairly quiet. We ordered sandwiches, which we ordered with sweet potato fries, and it was also served with coleslaw. The food was very good. The service we received was attentive and friendly.

Stayed over for a wedding. Dinner and breakfast were great. Room was lovely and staff very helpful. Would definitely stay again.

Couldn’t fault anything about this delightful pub! Food was delicious and the staff very friendly! Will definitely be returning soon!

We called here for drinks On Our way back to our holiday cottage in Cooling.

Th ultimate burger every time for me, the rib eats just ouzes flavour, although the Sunday roast is yummy., as no burgers on sunday

Returned for a Valentine's Day three-course special dinner. We opted for the melted Camembert, lamb cutlets and the creme brûlée. As usual, cooked to perfection. Friendly, family welcome, cosy surrounds, roaring fire.

We stayed here overnight when we attended a wedding at Cooling Castle.

Was attending a wedding at Cooling Castle Barn and stopped here over night.

Having embarked on a family outing to Cooling ( and prematurely parked up in nearby Cliffe! ) afforded us opportunity of v pleasent country walk on signposted pathways. Although we took a wrong turn, we were assisted by v friendly staff member at Cooling castle who kindly pointed out how close we where to the ancient and v atmospheric St James Church and Horseshoe & Castle.

This weekend me and my family came to Kent on a one time visit for a wedding that was being held down the road from this fascinating little pub.

Visited this pub a while ago - all as we were trying to find a place that allowed dogs. Have gone there fairly regularly - the quality of the food is excellent, could easily pay more than double for a similar meal in London. If you are a coffee lover, then try the latte, probably as good as (if not better) that in an Italian restaurant. As other people have said 'this is a proper pub', with friendly atmosphere.

Great food, great atmosphere and lovely people! Had a family meal here and loved everything about this place Would recommend to anyone

This pub offers friendly staff, well kept beer and good food, What more do you want? An atmospheric bar with an an enormous collection of bric-a-brac and taxidermy? Well, you're in luck.

After a very busy week we decided on a drive round some of the country roads of Kent. We literally "happened" to find this pub (obviously others know about it !) and decided to stop. A very warm day so we sat in the garden and ordered our food and drinks. We were served in a reasonable time and we were very happy with the quality and quantity of the food as well as the excellent taste. Didn't seem to us to be "out of the freezer." The young lady who served us was friendly and made us feel very welcome. It is a little dearer compared to some pubs but we were very pleased and will make sure we find this pub again.

Stayed overnight whilst at Cooling Castle Barn for a wedding. Customer Service excellent, nothing too much trouble. Food served quickly, room good - Positive staff happy to help. No negatives from our visit. Well done The Horseshoe & Castle ✅

We just had a snack and drinks in the pub before visiting the church of St James nearby. There are plenty of things to read inside - collection of jokes, etc. So even on a rainy day you would not be bored.

Visited prior to a service at the nearby church in Cooling.

Cosy, charming interior. It was a cool day but they had a log fire burning in back eating area. Service was extremely friendly with a lovely touch of humour. It's a locals' pub too and they are eating there which is always a good sign. Menu has a good selection of classics with a daily special. Very happy to return.

Lovely pub and hotel. Very friendly atmosphere and exceptional staff who are willing to go the extra mile for their guests. Stayed for 2 nights for a friends wedding nearby and staff offered to drive us to the venue as too far out of town for cabs. Room was lovely and food was excellent. Would definitely recommend.

Having eaten here before booked a table for 5 as it was a treat for my friend ordered drinks ordered roast beef with vegetables potatoes the beef was first class the veg n roast potatoes were first class too waitress polite n attentive we all had desserts which was nice n well presented every time I go to this country pub the service and food are always first class this a little gem thank you Kevin and staff

Stayed here two nights for a wedding at Cooling Barn. Perfect location, drove to the wedding and then walked back approximately 5 mins along a country lane, torches required. Accomadation, a bit tired perhaps, in a separate building with its own key which was a plus. Comfy bed everything we needed, very quiet.

A very old pub with basic accommodation , but was fine just for one night while attending a wedding at nearby Cooling Barn . Excellent breakfast with very friendly staff .

amazing bfast..... fully accomated all my daft requests. almost a personal chef experience so friendly and such amazing quality of food. evening menu looked amazing, cant wait to try

Delicious food, well presented and reasonably priced. We phoned to book a table and were unsure of our arrival time but were reassured that food would be available even if we were a little late. Had a splendid morning bird watching on The Hoo and got quite cold so it was great to be welcomed by an open fire and interesting menu. The pub is also full of quirky intersting artefacts from stuffed animals to prints of local places of interest including Pip's Graves. The pub was relatively empty but felt warm and inviting.

Excellent pub and reasonable restaurant. Wide range of quality ales and ciders with friendly personal service. Think it has a B&B; out back.

today we went for Sunday dinner here it was the worst we have ever had which was a shame as we had family from Poland with us that wanted a English roast in a country pub the beef was cold and red roast pots were cold and had been warmed in microwave in fact the whole meal was shameful

This is just a really nice pub with friendly staff, good beer and food with nice cosy atmosphere. I can...

Stayed here a couple of nights as we had a wedding close by. Room was quite nice and comfortable. Breakfast...

Good all fashion food with plenty of vegetables very nicely run my family and I went there for lunch couple...

The Horseshoe is well off the beaten track in Cooling with no real through road so traffic is minimal. Definitely...

A nice village pub, with excellent Steaks! Was reasonably priced too, with a good selection of drinks on offer too.

The menu had very good choices not only did they have the roasts but a very good selection of fish dishes which made it difficult to choose, I am fond of fish so chose a starter and main course of fish which were excellent and very large portions which meant there was no room for dessert also we had a delightful waitress who was very helpful

We as a family go very often here for the amazing food and their great food specials. Every 8 weeks they organise a 7-8 taste course menus from around the world cuisine just amazing.

Nice little pub serving good food.Small but we booked.It's a proper old pub, was a little sceptical at first but had lovely roast dinner & desert was delicious

Although we only wanted a light lunch, this Inn was everso welcome. Walls were covered with Rochester memorabilia; floors with assorted antiques and artifacts. Staff were attentive and plentiful. And the Inn had a convivial atmosphere. They even told us about special French or Italian evenings they hold. Sandwiches fine in quality and taste.