The Duke of Kent - Ealing - Pub Reviews

Nestled on Scotch Common in leafy Ealing, The Duke of Kent is a charming Fuller's gastro pub that blends historic character with modern comfort. Housed in a Grade II-listed building (rebuilt 1929 by noted pub architect Nowell Parr), it exudes classic British pub charm while serving the contemporary needs of its patrons. It’s a popular haunt for local families, groups of friends, and ale enthusiasts alike, drawn by a combination of well-kept beers, hearty seasonal food, and a warm community atmosphere. The pub enjoys a strong reputation, with customer ratings hovering around 4.3–4.4 out of 5, reflecting high praise for its atmosphere, food, and service. Opening hours run from 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM Monday through Saturday (Sundays until 10:30 PM), making it a reliable spot for lunch, dinner, or a relaxed evening pint.

Facilities & Entertainment

One of the Duke of Kent’s standout features is its expansive beer garden, often hailed as the best in Ealing. This leafy outdoor oasis comes complete with edible plants, a terrace, a lawn area and a children’s play zone. In warmer months, the garden really shines – there’s a dedicated outdoor bar and BBQ area, plus extras like table-tennis tables for a bit of alfresco fun. Families especially love the garden’s small playground and climbing frame, which keep the little ones entertained. Despite its generous size, the garden can fill up on sunny days, as it’s a go-to spot for locals seeking a relaxing drink in the sun or a weekend BBQ event.

Indoors, the pub boasts a spacious, wood-panelled interior with multiple sections to suit different moods. There are cosy nooks with comfortable couches and armchairs for intimate chats, as well as larger open areas for group gatherings. You’ll even find quirky decor touches – for example, one wall is adorned with a vintage cutlery display, adding a dash of character noted by curious patrons. While you won’t find standard pub games like dartboards or pool tables here (the focus is more on food and conversation), the Duke of Kent does occasionally pull down a screen for major sports events. They aren’t a sports-centric pub by any means, but if there’s a big match or tournament final, you might catch it being shown in a corner, adding a lively buzz without dominating the atmosphere. A rare perk for a London pub: on-site parking is available. There’s a small free car park (around a dozen spaces) which is hugely convenient, though it fills up quickly at peak times. Between the ample garden, the comfortable interior, and practical touches like parking, The Duke of Kent scores high on facilities that cater to a broad audience.

Food on Offer

The Duke of Kent’s food menu strikes a fine balance between classic British pub fare and seasonally inspired dishes. As a Fuller's establishment, it places an emphasis on quality, freshly prepared meals made with locally sourced ingredients. The A La Carte menu is impressively diverse for a pub – you’ll find all the hearty pub classics you’d hope for (crispy beer-battered fish and chips, juicy burgers, steak and ale pie, etc.) alongside more contemporary plates and rotating chef’s specials. Sharing plates and starters (like their loaded chips topped with gourmet fixings or a tangy feta dip) are great for nibbling over a pint, and they ensure there are vegetarian and vegan options available (such as a flavourful plant-based burger or a seasonal salad) so that most visitors will find something to their liking.

One culinary highlight here is undoubtedly the Sunday roast. The Duke of Kent has built a bit of a reputation for its Sunday roasts – patrons often rave about them, and they’ve become a local ritual for many. On Sundays, the menu offers succulent roast meats (beef, pork, chicken, or a nut roast for vegetarians) served with all the traditional trimmings: think golden roast potatoes, Yorkshire puddings, seasonal veggies, and rich gravy. These roasts come in generous portions that satisfy the heartiest of appetites. It’s not uncommon for the roasts to sell out towards the end of Sunday service due to their popularity, so it can pay to arrive early or even book a table if a roast is on your radar. Beyond the roasts, the kitchen frequently showcases seasonal specials – from fresh summer salads and seafood pies, to warm, comforting stews in winter – keeping regulars intrigued with something new. And of course, you shouldn’t skip dessert; classic British sweets like sticky toffee pudding or fruit crumbles often grace the menu, providing a perfect sweet finish. Overall, the food at The Duke of Kent goes beyond standard “pub grub” – it’s elevated comfort food done with care, making the pub as much a dining destination as it is a drinking spot.

Beers on Tap

Beer aficionados will feel right at home at The Duke of Kent. As a Fuller’s brewery pub, it proudly pours some of Fuller’s flagship ales – you can almost always get a perfectly poured pint of London Pride, for instance, that tastes as fresh as it would at the brewery. Fuller’s ESB and other seasonal Fuller’s brews often make appearances on the hand-pumps as well. The pub also features rotating guest ales and a variety of premium lagers and craft beers, so there’s usually something new or interesting on tap for those looking to expand their palate. On any visit, you might find a hoppy IPA from a London microbrewery or a crisp continental Pilsner alongside the more traditional British ales. The bartenders here are quite knowledgeable about their beer selection – if you’re undecided, they’re happy to offer a recommendation or a small taste.

Importantly, the beer quality is top-notch. The cask ales are kept in great condition (a detail not lost on the real ale enthusiasts who frequent the pub). Regulars will tell you that the lines are cleaned diligently and each pint comes with the right clarity, temperature, and head. In my experience, the London Pride at the Duke of Kent is as good as it gets – a smooth, malty pint with that hint of caramel, demonstrating the care put into cellaring and serving. If beer isn’t your drink of choice, fear not: the Duke of Kent also offers a well-rounded wine list, a selection of classic cocktails, and all the usual spirits and non-alcoholic options. But it’s those well-kept ales and the occasional surprise guest beer that really shine, underscoring the pub’s commitment to a great pint. Whether you’re a CAMRA card-carrier or just someone who enjoys a cold lager on a hot day, you’ll find the pub’s drink menu more than satisfying.

Price Range & Value

By London standards, The Duke of Kent falls into a comfortable mid-range (££) price category, and most patrons feel they get good value for the quality on offer. Typical main dishes range roughly from £12 to £18, which is on par with other gastro pubs in West London. For example, a classic fish and chips might come in around the £14 mark, while a hearty Sunday roast with all the trimmings might be closer to £18 – but you’ll be walking away well fed. Starters and smaller plates tend to be in the £6–£9 range, and desserts around £6–£7. Pints of beer are usually about £5–£6 depending on your choice (standard for a craft ale or lager in this part of London), and wines are reasonably priced by the glass and bottle, with a decent house selection at fair rates.

Most importantly, the value for money is consistently praised. You’re not paying bloated tourist-trap prices here, nor is it bargain-basement cheap – rather, the consensus is that you get what you pay for, in a good way. Portions are generous (nobody leaves hungry), and the ingredient quality and presentation of dishes reflect the care taken in the kitchen. Many locals comment that a meal at The Duke of Kent is money well spent: the food is fresh and flavourful, the pints are properly looked after, and the overall experience – from the ambiance to the service – makes it feel worth every penny. There aren’t any sneaky service charges added when you order at the bar; if you dine at a table, standard practice is to tip at your discretion for good service. Given the location and the excellent facilities (like that gorgeous garden), prices here feel very fair. In short, The Duke of Kent offers a satisfying experience at a fair price point. It’s the kind of place where you can settle in for an afternoon and enjoy a full meal and drinks without feeling like you’ve overspent, which certainly contributes to its loyal following.

Customer Service

Walk into The Duke of Kent and one of the first things you’ll likely notice is the warm welcome. The staff here have a knack for creating a friendly, inviting atmosphere from the get-go. Many reviews from visitors highlight the genuinely attentive and cheerful service – whether it’s the bartender chatting about the latest ale on tap or a server checking in to make sure your meal is just right, the team strikes a nice balance of professionalism and personable charm. It’s not uncommon to see the same faces behind the bar over the months and years, and that consistency helps build a rapport with regulars. In fact, if you become a repeat visitor, don’t be surprised if the staff remember your usual drink or ask how you’ve been – there’s a bit of that neighbourhood pub familiarity that makes newcomers feel like locals in no time.

In my own visits, I found the service to be efficient and thoughtful. Even during busy periods, things seem to run smoothly: staff circulate through the garden collecting empty glasses promptly, and food arrives in a reasonable time frame given the volume of orders. Of course, as The Duke of Kent is a popular spot, there are moments (particularly at weekend peak times or sunny holiday afternoons) when the bar can get swamped and you might wait a little longer for that pint or for a table to be cleared. A few patrons have noted that during these rushes, the otherwise attentive service can get a bit stretched. However, these instances tend to be the exception rather than the rule. On the whole, the pub’s team handles crowds with good humour and hustle, often apologising proactively if there’s a delay and sometimes offering a smile and a joke to make the wait feel shorter.

The family-friendliness of the service is worth mentioning too. Staff are accommodating to those with children – they’ll happily provide high chairs, make space for prams, and are patient with kids exploring the garden. If your dog is tagging along, you’ll likely be greeted with a bowl of water for the pup (and maybe even a treat); the pub is very dog-friendly, which the four-legged visitors seem to appreciate as much as the owners. Numerous accounts mention how the team went above and beyond for special occasions – whether it was helping to set up a birthday cake, or coordinating a group reservation for a family gathering, the staff’s can-do attitude left a positive impression. Minor hiccups aside (as can happen anywhere), the Duke of Kent’s customer service track record is overwhelmingly positive. The genuine, welcoming vibe created by the staff is a big part of what turns first-time visitors into loyal regulars.

Events & Special Nights

While The Duke of Kent is not a pub that revolves around constant loud entertainment, it certainly knows how to keep things engaging with a roster of special events and themed nights. One of the staples is the weekly pub quiz – every Monday night, the pub hosts a quiz that draws an enthusiastic crowd of trivia buffs and casual quizzers alike. It’s a classic British pub quiz affair: teams huddle over their answer sheets, pints in hand, tackling rounds of general knowledge and quirky trivia questions. The quiz nights come with great prizes for the winners (and sometimes amusing booby prizes for the not-so-great scores), and they’ve become a beloved early-week tradition for many locals. If you fancy yourself a bit of a quiz whiz or just want a fun, social way to spend a Monday evening, the Duke’s quiz night is highly recommended – just be sure to get there early to grab a good table, as it does get busy.

Beyond the quiz, the pub often rolls out themed food and drink nights. For instance, they’ve been known to host a “Burger & Beer” deal on certain evenings, or a midweek “Wine & Dine” special where a bottle of vino comes at a discount with a meal. According to their social media updates, Tuesdays might see a casual chess club gathering (perfect for a low-key game night), and Fridays sometimes feature a “Fizz Friday” promotion for those who want to celebrate the week’s end with some bubbly. During the warmer months, the Duke of Kent really capitalises on its great outdoor space – the spacious garden becomes a hub for summer social events. They’ve hosted live acoustic music sessions and even small open-air theatre performances out in the garden on special nights (imagine a balmy evening with live jazz or a local band playing while you sip a cold drink under the stars). Family-friendly events pop up occasionally too, such as weekend BBQs, garden games days, or little fairs for the community.

The pub also doesn’t shy away from celebrating seasonal events. Be it a Halloween-themed night with spooky cocktails, a festive Christmas jumper party in December, or a special menu for Father’s Day, they embrace the calendar’s opportunities for a good time. It’s clear that while sports aren’t a main focus, when major national games are on (think World Cup football matches or a big Wimbledon final), the team is happy to get into the spirit – they’ll set up a projector or use the TVs so people can cheer on together, ensuring sports fans don’t miss out. What’s nice is that these events never overwhelm the pub’s laid-back character; on a regular night, you’ll still find it a relaxed spot for conversation, but there’s always the promise of something fun on the horizon. Checking the pub’s notice board or website is a good idea to see what’s coming up – whether it’s a quiz, a themed dinner, or a community get-together, The Duke of Kent’s events add an extra layer of vibrancy to an already lively pub.

Atmosphere & Accessibility

Step inside The Duke of Kent and you’ll feel an atmosphere that’s both cosy and convivial. The interior retains a traditional pub charm – you’re greeted by rich wood-panelled walls, a long polished bar, and plenty of natural light filtering in (by day) through leaded glass windows. In colder months, a roaring fireplace in one of the rooms adds a touch of warmth and invites you to settle into a snug armchair with your pint. At the same time, the recent refurbishments and tasteful decor give it a slight modern twist – it’s not fusty or old-fashioned, but rather a clean, comfortable space that still nods to its heritage. The layout of the pub includes a few semi-separate areas, almost like different “rooms” flowing into one another, which creates little pockets of atmosphere. One corner might be lively with a group of friends laughing over drinks, while another nook offers a quieter spot for a couple chatting over dinner. It’s the kind of place that feels bustling but not chaotic – there’s a pleasant background hum of conversation and clinking glasses, but you can still talk without shouting. Soft background music plays at an unobtrusive volume most of the time, keeping the vibe upbeat but allowing conversation to dominate.

When the weather is nice, the huge fold-out doors toward the back are often opened up, effectively extending the interior into that fabulous garden and merging the two spaces. On a sunny afternoon, you might find half the patrons outside on picnic benches under umbrellas, and an easy flow of people moving between bar and garden. Yet even in winter, the Duke of Kent doesn’t lose its appeal – it becomes a haven of warmth and cheer, with the interior’s amber lighting and decor making for a proper cosy retreat from the chilly weather. The clientele here is notably diverse and reflects the local community. On weekends you’ll see families with kids (the little ones sometimes excitedly dragging parents toward the play area outside), alongside groups of young professionals clinking glasses, and older regulars reading the paper or conversing at the bar. There’s a real community feel – everyone is made to feel at home, and occasionally you’ll even see strangers striking up friendly chats about the dog sitting at their feet or the game on TV. Despite being a large pub, it has the heart of a local neighbourhood pub where there’s a good chance the staff or the folks at the next table might say hello.

In terms of accessibility, The Duke of Kent does well, especially considering its age and historic structure. The main entrance is at street level with no steps to navigate, and once inside, the ground floor is all one level, which makes it easy for those using wheelchairs or pushing prams to get around. The interior has a fairly open plan with wide walkways between tables, so even when it’s crowded, most areas remain reachable (though naturally it can get a bit tight right around the bar when people queue for drinks). The venue is equipped with accessible facilities – there’s a wheelchair-accessible restroom on the ground floor, and the staff are more than willing to lend a hand if needed. The generous outdoor area is similarly easy to access, with flat pathways through the garden. The pub is also dog-friendly throughout, not just in the garden; water bowls (and even blankets in cooler weather) are provided to keep canine companions comfortable, so you’ll often see a happy dog or two lounging under the picnic tables outside or near their owner’s chair inside. For those coming by car, as mentioned, there’s a small on-site car park and some free street parking in the vicinity. Signage helps indicate where you can park, but do note that on very busy days you might have to seek parking on a nearby residential street if the lot is full. Public transport users will find bus stops conveniently close by as well. All in all, the atmosphere at The Duke of Kent is welcoming, warm, and inclusive – whether you’re 8 or 80, coming with a stroller or a wheelchair, or toting a puppy, the pub makes it easy to relax and enjoy your time. It’s a testament to how a historic pub can adapt to modern accessibility needs without sacrificing its character.

Location & Nearby Attractions

Situated in the residential neighbourhood of Pitshanger (North Ealing), The Duke of Kent enjoys a location that’s peaceful yet well connected to local attractions. While it’s a little off the main tourist track, that’s part of its charm – you get a taste of genuine West London local life. The pub’s address is 2 Scotch Common, Ealing (W13), which is about a mile and a half from the busy Ealing Broadway area. Getting there is relatively straightforward: if you’re coming by public transport, the nearest Tube station is Ealing Broadway (Central and Elizabeth lines) from which you can hop on a local bus (the E10 bus route, for example) that drops you within a few minutes’ walk of the pub. Alternatively, the Castle Bar Park rail station (on the Paddington to Greenford line) is about a 10-minute walk away, making it accessible for those coming from central London via train. For drivers, the pub’s own car park is a bonus, but if that’s full, you’ll find additional street parking along Scotch Common and surrounding roads (just watch for any permit restrictions). The area is outside of the central congestion zone, so driving here is feasible, and the pub is roughly 5-10 minutes by car from the A40 Western Avenue or the North Circular, two of West London’s major arteries.

Despite being nestled in a suburban setting, there’s plenty to explore around Ealing when you visit. Just down the street from the pub lies Pitshanger Lane, often celebrated as one of London’s best local high streets. This charming stretch won the Great British High Street award in 2015 for its community vibe and range of independent shops. It’s well worth taking a stroll down Pitshanger Lane – you’ll find artisanal bakeries, a traditional butcher, quaint cafes, and boutiques, giving a real “village within the city” feel. If you’re visiting on a Saturday, you might catch the weekly farmers’ market by St. Barnabas Church, where you can pick up homemade goodies. For those who enjoy green spaces, Pitshanger Park is a short walk from the pub. This large park runs alongside the River Brent and is perfect for a post-meal walk or letting the kids burn off energy. It features open fields, tennis courts, a playground, and even a seasonal café. The park’s scenic footpaths can lead you on a pleasant walk towards Perivale or into the Brent River nature trails if you’re feeling more adventurous.

Heading a bit further afield (a quick bus ride or a longer walk) will take you to Ealing Broadway, the town centre of Ealing. There you can visit the Pitzhanger Manor & Gallery, an historic Georgian villa once owned by architect Sir John Soane – now an arts and heritage museum with rotating exhibitions. Adjacent to it is Walpole Park, Ealing’s premier park, which hosts summer festivals and has beautiful formal gardens and ponds. Film buffs might note that Ealing is famous for its film studio – Ealing Studios, known for classic British comedies, is located near Ealing Green, and while it’s not open for casual tours, just knowing you’re in the vicinity of British cinema history adds to the local flavour. If you fancy more pub exploration, Ealing isn’t short on options: within a short drive or bus hop you have other notable pubs like The Plough Inn and The Drayton Court (with one of the biggest beer gardens in London), but honestly, many find that The Duke of Kent’s own garden is second to none. In summary, the location offers a mix of convenience and calm. You can easily make a day of it: have lunch at the pub, wander Pitshanger’s lovely streets and park, maybe pop into central Ealing for some shopping or culture, and return to the Duke for an evening pint. It gives visitors a great excuse to discover the charms of Ealing, a borough often dubbed “the Queen of Suburbs” for its greenery and genteel atmosphere.

Overall Impression

The Duke of Kent stands out as a gem of a pub in West London, effortlessly combining the best of traditional pub culture with the perks of a modern gastropub. After spending time here, it’s easy to see why this place is more than just a local watering hole – it’s truly a community institution that embodies the spirit of British pub hospitality. The pub itself, with its 1920s heritage and beautiful design, provides a characterful backdrop whether you’re popping in for a quick after-work pint or settling down for a full Sunday roast feast. The atmosphere manages to be both relaxing and uplifting: you can have a quiet conversation by the fireplace or join in the happy buzz of the beer garden on a sunny day. Families, couples, solo visitors, and groups of friends all intermingle comfortably, which speaks to how inclusive and adaptable the space is. There’s a real sense that everyone is welcome – from the dog walkers stopping by for a pint (pooch in tow) to the grandparents celebrating a birthday lunch with the whole family.

Of course, like any popular spot, the Duke of Kent isn’t without a few minor quirks. Its popularity means that at peak times you might face a bit of a wait – whether for a parking spot, a table, or just for your turn at the busy bar. On a balmy summer weekend, the garden can get packed (which, to be fair, infuses it with a fun energy, but don’t expect solitude!). Also, because the pub wears so many hats so well – restaurant, beer garden, community hub – it can occasionally stretch the service thin when everyone shows up at once. But in the grand scheme, these are small trade-offs that the management is continuously looking to smooth out. They’ve shown a willingness to tweak operations during busy periods and take on board feedback, which is great to see. And when you’re relaxing with a delicious pint of ale in that gorgeous garden, or tucking into a roast that tastes just like homemade, any memory of having waited an extra 5 minutes at the bar tends to vanish.

The Duke of Kent is not just a pub, it’s an experience – one that captures what people love about London pub culture: history, quality, and heart. It’s the kind of place where you come for the first time and leave feeling like you’ve been a regular for ages. Many patrons (myself included) walk away with fond memories, be it of a summer evening under the fairy lights in the garden, a laughter-filled quiz night win, or simply a friendly chat with staff that brightened the day. The combination of a top-notch setting, flavourful food, great drinks, and genuine hospitality makes this pub a standout. If you find yourself in Ealing or anywhere nearby, a visit to The Duke of Kent comes highly recommended. Whether you’re there for a leisurely Sunday lunch, a mid-week social, or just a pint on your own, this pub promises a slice of local excellence that’s increasingly hard to find. In a city full of pubs, The Duke of Kent has that special something that truly seldom disappoints – it might just become your new favourite spot in London’s west.