28 Sandgate High Street

Sandgate

https://whatpub.com/gate-28

Above picture taken from Google Maps.

Gate 28, date unknown.

Above photo taken by Paul Clarke, date unknown. Showing the inside of Gate 28.

More a cafe and wine bar than a public house, but certainly served real ale.

Situated close to the Saga offices, (the holidays for the over-50s company) this establishment was opened in 1999 by 26 year old locals Sarah Fry and Justin Terry after they had completed their university degrees. With 2,000 office workers on its doorstep, who had nowhere else to go to spend their lunchtimes ("except empty antiques shops", says Sarah Fry), Gate 28 prospered.

It is said that Vic Reeves is a frequent visitor.

The premises was said to be a nice modern looking place with neon light effects, nice unusually wide, totally clean and uncluttered bar counter (unlike many other bars which tend to overcrowd their already narrow counter), they have a tiny little 6'X6' square yard in-between the neighbouring buildings for a smoking area equipped with a heater but if you don't mind the cold just go out front. Weekend attractions included live music from local bands.

I believe the placed closed in 2008, and is now occupied by a relocated Escondido Mexican Restaurant.

The What Pub web site suggests that this used to be the "Military Tavern" but I am not yet convinced of that statement. Local knowledge required please.

LICENSEE LIST

FRY Sarah & TERRY Justin 1999-2008