From the https://www.kentonline.co.uk By Chris Britcher, 13 December 2018.

Walnut Tree in East Farleigh reopens after £100,000 refurb with landlords from the George Inn in Leeds.

A country pub has reopened after a three-month, £100,000 refurbishment.

The Walnut Tree in East Farleigh, near Maidstone, has seen a full redecoration, inside and out, a new kitchen, new furniture, and new decor and lighting throughout.

It will be run by Jason and Debbie Tharp, who have run the "George Inn" in nearby village Leeds for the past five years.

Jason and Debbie Tharp at the Walnut Tree in East Farleigh (5980857).

The pub, which dates back to 1528, is owned by Shepherd Neame, which also controls the "George Inn".

The refurbishment was funded jointly by the brewery and the licensees.

Mrs Tharp said: "We love running the George Inn, and wanted to take on another challenge. When we found out that The Walnut Tree was available, it seemed the perfect opportunity. It is very similar to the George Inn, as it is a very traditional pub in a beautiful setting, with a friendly, warm atmosphere.”

The new licensees have introduced a new menu and say the pub is family friendly.

Adds Mrs Tharp: “We have received a great reaction to the pub’s new look from the local community and have already taken lots of Christmas bookings, so things are getting off to a great start!”

From the https://www.kentonline.co.uk By Luke May, 20 June 2019.

 The "Walnut Tree," East Farleigh was named Turnaround Pub of the Year.

The quaint country pub was taken on last year by licensees Jason and Debbie Tharp, who also run The "George Inn" in the nearby village of Leeds, and a £100,000 programme of refurbishment was undertaken just before Christmas.

Jonathan Neame with Debbie and Jason Tharp from the "Walnut Tree" in East Farleigh.

Mrs Tharp said: “We are so pleased to win this award.

"We have had a brilliant year and been so well supported by the residents, who have told us they are really pleased that we have injected new life into their local.”

Shepherd Neame chief executive Jonathan Neame said: "These awards are aimed at recognising the hard work, dedication, and creativity of our licensees and staff, and celebrating excellence in our industry."

Elsewhere in Kent, the "Walnut Tree Inn" in Aldington won the Heart of the Community award, Dargate's the "Dove" scooped the Pub Food gong, New Licensee went to Joe and Jane Mullane of the "Four Fathoms," Herne Bay, "Dover Castle" in Teynham won Tenanted Pub of the Year, the "Alma" in Painters Forstal had the Best Floral Display, and Nick Kings-Kemsley of the "Marine Hotel," Tankerton was named Manager of the Year.

Meanwhile, The "Green Man" in Hernogate, Essex, won the Best Hero award.