A little bit of country magic in the heart of town
Nestled in the heart of historic Gravesend, the Jolly Drayman stands as a charming pub with a rich and vibrant history. Dating back to 1843, this beloved establishment has welcomed generations of locals and visitors with its warm atmosphere and traditional charm.
Our Approach
We pride ourselves on preserving the authentic character of a traditional English pub while offering a modern, welcoming experience. Our friendly staff and comfortable ambiance create a perfect setting for enjoying a delicious meal, sharing a pint with friends, or simply relaxing after a busy day.
Our Story
The Jolly Drayman boasts a fascinating past, evolving from the Druid's Head in the 19th century to becoming the Jolly Drayman we know and love today. Over the years, it has undergone various transformations, including a brief stint as the Brewery Tap and later becoming the Wellington Brewery. A fire in 1928 tragically ended brewing on the premises, but the spirit of the Jolly Drayman persevered.
What We Offer
At the Jolly Drayman, we cater to a diverse range of interests. Beer connoisseurs will delight in our selection of craft beers, while live music enthusiasts can enjoy regular performances by talented local acts. We also host lively quiz nights, fun game nights, and even beer and music festivals.
Beyond the Pub
Beyond our welcoming pub, we offer a comfortable and cozy hotel, perfect for those seeking a charming getaway. Our function venue is available for hire, ensuring your special events are truly memorable.
Join Us at the Jolly Drayman
Step through our doors and discover a piece of Gravesend history. Enjoy a delicious meal, share a pint with friends, or simply soak in the welcoming atmosphere. We look forward to welcoming you to the Jolly Drayman, where history meets hospitality.
Overview of Pub Reviews
The reviews for this pub overall have been extremely positive, with many praising its friendly staff, good selection of beer and snacks, and cozy atmosphere. However, one reviewer had a negative experience due to an unfriendly member of staff.
Positive Comments
Many reviewers praised the pub's friendly and welcoming staff, with several highlighting the helpful and informative service they received. The selection of beer and snacks was also a major selling point, with several reviewers mentioning the availability of bar snacks on Sundays.
Location and Ambiance
The pub's location was also praised, with many reviewers mentioning its proximity to excellent Indian restaurants. The pub's traditional atmosphere and decor were also complimented, with one reviewer describing it as "old school pub" with a "funky" interior.
Negative Comments
However, one reviewer had a negative experience due to the unfriendly attitude of one member of staff. They described this staff member as "extremely rude and arrogant, " and felt that they needed to learn how to speak to customers more politely.
Other Feedback
Some reviewers also mentioned the pub's rooms, with one reviewer praising the comfort and size of their king-size bed room. Another reviewer mentioned the availability of a beer garden and dart board, as well as live sport on the TV.