‘Totally befuddled! It’s the most confused I have ever been in a pub’
Kent Online 2026-06-19 04:00:00
Context: A writer for a regional UK news website, known as the Secret Drinker, recently visited a pub in Rochester, Kent, that left him utterly perplexed due to its unusual setup. The pub, which has two separate areas with different names - the Jolly Knight and Ye Arrow - is located on Rochester High Street, with Ye Arrow's entrance on Boley Hill. The writer's experience highlighted the potential for confusion among patrons, especially given the distinct differences between the two areas.
Key Facts
- The Jolly Knight and Ye Arrow are two separate areas of the same pub, with the Jolly Knight located at 56 High Street, Rochester, ME1 1LD, and Ye Arrow's entrance on Boley Hill, offering distinct experiences for patrons.
- Upon entering the Jolly Knight, patrons can access Ye Arrow by walking through a grey corridor at the back left-hand side of the deserted, dark bar, which leads to a separate area with a different name and a variety of real ales.
- The pub's staff, including barmaid Wendy, seem to be accustomed to the dual setup, but even they appear to be unclear about the reasoning behind the two names, with the barman admitting it can get confusing for the staff.
- The pub offers a range of drinks, including a 4% Level Head IPA brewed by Greene King, which the writer found to be very good, and a Belter Lager for £4, with prices for meals and drinks being notably reasonable, such as a Mediterranean salad for £7.75 and a large glass of wine for £5.50.
- The writer observed that the pub's clientele varies significantly depending on the time of day, with local pensioners and school girls being among the patrons during lunchtime, and the atmosphere is likely to change dramatically on weekend evenings, particularly during events like the World Cup.