If you’re looking for a pub with a twist, The Fenn Bell Inn in Kent has a ‘passion for wildlife’, housing its own zoo (Image: Getty Images)
A pair of culinary enthusiasts have stumbled upon what they believe to be the nation’s ‘most unusual pub’, complete with its own adjoining zoo.
Kent’s very own Sophie and Joe, who share their gastronomic journeys on TikTok as @southeastfoodies, ventured to the quaint village of Hoo to experience The Fenn Bell Inn.
Located a stone’s throw from Rochester, the duo revealed that the establishment not only serves pints but also harbours a “passion for wildlife”, operating concurrently as a conservation zoo.
The Fenn Bell Inn Conservation Project is home to an impressive array of over 100 different animal species.
In a recent TikTok clip, Sophie remarked: “The zoo itself states that they only take on rescue animals or those from other zoos, and that they are passionate about saving endangered species, conservation education and research.”
Patrons looking to visit the pub can enjoy breakfast and lunch offerings every day, with dinner available from 5.30pm to 9pm on Fridays and Saturdays following a kitchen upgrade that promises a slew of tantalising new dishes.
The lunch menu features light bites including jacket potatoes and a variety of sandwiches. For those craving traditional pub fare, the options are plentiful, reports the Mirror.
Indulge in a classic beer battered cod fillet accompanied by chips, peas, and tartare sauce; savour an All Day Breakfast loaded with bacon, sausages, hash browns, fried eggs, mushrooms, grilled tomatoes, beans, and bread and butter; or opt for a lavish Seafood Platter brimming with tempura prawns, cod goujons, calamari, and scampi.
The Fenn Bell Inn boasts an impressive burger selection, including the classic Fenn Bell burgers and chips adorned with cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, and their signature Fenn Bell sauce.
For those seeking a twist on a traditional pub favourite, the Hunters Chicken is a must-try, brimming with all the familiar flavours.
Not to be outdone by its food offerings, the pub presents a robust drinks menu featuring ice-cold beer, cider, and Guinness on tap. Patrons can also select from an array of cocktails or wines to suit their individual tastes.
Sophie and Joe’s video tour of the Fenn Bell Inn has captured the attention of over half a million viewers, racking up more than 554,400 views. Fans have been quick to express their fondness for the establishment.
Shannon commented: “Awh fenn bells is lovely! love the otters! don’t love the sporadic bus schedule.”
Demi Marie chimed in with enthusiasm: “If this doesn’t scream the perfect place for you and Tommy i don’t know what does.”
Rhianna shared her surprise at the local recognition, “Wasn’t expecting to see this on my fyp I only live 10 mins down the road,” while Tracy reminisced about the food quality, “The food is also amazing. Only been there once when they were starting to build the zoo.”
Kaeli added her endorsement: “And the food in the pub is proper pub grub and nice! “.
Chloe recounted her personal connection to the venue: “Absolutely love it here! Used to go here with my nan when they first opened as a zoo and had barely any animals when I was young and now I take my daughter.”
The pub has not only won over TikTok users but also previous visitors who have praised the “delicious” food.
Andrew shared his experience on Tripadvisor, saying: “We came here with some of our family to visit the animal zoo and to have lunch after next to the playground where the grandchildren played . We ordered our food and were pleasantly surprised at what a great standard the food was when I came. We all had different things to eat and it’s fair to say we all loved what we got. Size and the heat of cooked food was spot on. Well done.”
Another visitor, Bigtel1776, commented: “Really great food here, had a seafood platter was well cooked, all the food was very tasty, nice atmosphere and well kept. Popped in for lunch after a visit to the conservation which is amazing value and worth the visit. Proper litre gem this place.”
If you’re planning a visit to the zoo, entry tickets are priced at £6 for children (between two and 15), £6.50 for over 16s, while a group ticket for two adults and two children will cost you £22.50. But what can you expect to see there?
Many of Fenn Bell’s animals have been rescued from the pet trade, while others have come from other zoos and animal collections. You’ll find a variety of species including meerkats, bobcats, Asian small clawed otters, and various parrot species.
The Fenn Bell Inn and the Fenn Bell Conservation Project are located on Fenn Street, St. Mary Hoo, Rochester, Kent ME3 8RF.