The Leicester Arms in Penshurst, near Tonbridge, has been named in The Good Food Guide’s inaugural 100 Best Pubs. The accolade for the historic village pub was given in recognition of its outstanding food, quality drinks and friendly, attentive service.
The listing comes hot on the heels of the pub’s recent inclusion in The Guardian’s 30 Best UK pubs for an autumn escape with great food. The country inn will build on this momentum with a packed calendar of events and experiences that celebrate great food, drink and hospitality in the heart of the Kent countryside.
The Leicester Arms was transformed with a major refurbishment in 2024 by the Little & Large Pub Company, who run the pub, and owners Brakspear, which upgraded the pub while retaining its charm and character. Lunch and dinner are served every day in the Grade II listed building or, in the summer, on the terrace overlooking the Kent countryside. The pub also has 13 en-suite bedrooms, offering all the luxury of a boutique hotel combined with individual, botanically inspired design that means every room is unique.
Manu Bhatt, founder of the Little & Large Pub Company said: “We are proud of the team and grateful to our guests, neighbours and suppliers for their support. Being named in The Good Food Guide and highlighted by The Guardian as a great place to stay and food destination is a real boost to what we have set out to create here. We are excited to welcome guests for a season of long lunches, cosy dinners and memorable celebrations.”
Being named in The Good Food Guide and highlighted by The Guardian as a great place to stay and food destination is a real boost to what we have set out to create here.
The Best 100 Pubs includes pubs across the country, rating them for their brilliant cooking, quality beers and other drinks, and warm welcome. Some of the country’s finest chefs feature on the list, creating approachable, affordable dishes from ingredients with local provenance. The Leicester Arms achieved No.91 on this year’s list.
Brakspear chief executive Tom Davies said: “This is wonderful and well-deserved recognition for the team at The Leicester Arms. Under Little & Large, the pub has gone from strength to strength, thanks to their focus on achieving the highest standards in the kitchen and front of house. We’re delighted to be working with such a talented pub operator.”
Coming up in autumn and winter
- Bonfire Night Celebrations, 5th November
- Beast & Beaujolais wine dinner, 21st November. Expect winemaker takeovers, curated pairings and convivial suppers that showcase the kitchen’s seasonal menus
- Christmas & New Year’s Celebrations
This year we’re pulling out all the stops for a season of celebration you won’t forget. Festive dining is available from 1st December. Step into glamour as we welcome 2026 with our New Year’s Eve Ball.
- Weddings and celebrations
The Leicester Arms is delighted to be welcoming enquiries for weddings, rehearsal dinners and milestone gatherings. Options include the elegant Sidney Room for up to 30 seated or the dining room for private use. A dedicated events team will help plan every detail from arrival drinks to late night bites.
- Garden and outdoor space
The landscaped garden recently had a stretch tent installed as well as an outdoor bar and kitchen creating a flexible all weather setting for receptions, summer parties and group events. The space works equally well for relaxed drinks after a ceremony or a full feasting style celebration.
- Stay the night
Guests can make a Kent escape of it with comfortable bedrooms and characterful suites above the inn including rooms with roll top baths. Breakfast is served downstairs with a focus on local produce.
Book and enquire
For table reservations, private dining and wedding enquiries please email hello@theleicesterarmspenshurst.co.uk.
The Leicester Arms Country Inn, High Street, Penshurst, Kent TN11 8BT
