News

The village of Hawkinge became synonymous with Spitfires when it was used as an RAF base during the Battle of Britain. Now, the beer named after the iconic aircraft can be enjoyed at the village pub.

Shepherd Neame, brewers of Spitfire Premium Kentish Ale, today (9 August) acquired The White Horse Inn for an undisclosed sum.

Located on Canterbury Road, Hawkinge, The White Horse Inn is a traditional community-focused pub with restaurant. The pub is home to local darts, cribbage, pool and football teams and is popular for its Sunday carvery and restaurant which serves freshly prepared food using locally sourced ingredients. The White Horse Inn will also serve a range of Shepherd Neame’s Kentish ales.

Property and tenanted trade director George Barnes said: “We’re delighted to have acquired this lively village pub. As brewers of Spitfire its particularly fitting for us to have a pub in Hawkinge.

“We hope that the White Horse will continue to be well-used by the local community and plan to further enhance its menu of fresh, local food.”

The White Horse Inn is currently under temporary management while Shepherd Neame appoints a tenant.

RAF Hawkinge was the nearest fighter station to enemy occupied France during the Battle of Britain. The airfield has since been developed for new housing and is home to the Kent Battle of Britain Museum.