Wetherspoons is a well-known and much-loved pub chain across the UK and Ireland, popular for its cheap drinks and a quick bite to eat. And one 'Super Spoons' is located at The Royal Victoria's Pavilion in Ramsgate, boasting an inviting sun deck with views across the golden beach which is even busier than most, especially on a hot summer's day.
Mirror writer Amber O'Connor, who lives in the hometown of where the largest Wetherspoons pub is situated, says its grand exterior and high ceilings makes the bar somewhat more of a tourist attraction than a boozer packed with locals. She explains it's where she would go with her hometown friends if they were looking for a cheap drink and something quick to eat but claims some people will trek half-way across the country for a beer there.
However, the writer has warned visitors not to hold such high expectations to the idyllic beach front boozer as it does come with one downfall - it's the exact same as every other Wetherspoons. Amber says although she understands why tourists travel to the appealing pub in the picturesque town, they ought to know what they're signing up for first.
The pub which boasts lavish décor and a grand staircase comes with its notable perks, being a '11,000sq ft pub from the royal harbour, it's hard not to be impressed'. Amber said: "The sheer size of the eatery is attention grabbing, as is the wraparound balcony.
"Thanks to a £4.5 million renovation, it is equally jaw-dropping inside the former concert hall. While the venue can hold up to 1,400 people, it feels light and airy even during busier nights.
"I remember I felt like I'd walked inside a cruise ship on my first visit, perhaps inspired by the Titanic-esque staircase".
However, the local is quick to remind people that despite it's fancy interior and location, it is very much the same to 'every other Spoons site with a classic patterned carpet and the normal grub, just in a larger setting'.
Amber said: "There is some comfort to that familiarity of course, but when I visited on Tuesday, my experience was much the same as it would have been in any other of the 800 plus Wetherspoons pubs in the UK. So, I can somewhat sympathise with punters who leave wondering what all the fuss is about - and I reckon there's several.
"I had a nice evening, don't get me wrong. But it was nothing to write home about, and not just because my family joined me for the meal. The service was fast, the drinks were cheap, and the atmosphere was fine, but the food left us wanting more."
The writer ordered pasta alfredo and said the food was okay but the portion size was quite small. Her family however had mixed reviews after ordering a southern-fried chicken strip basket and two curries along with a 'rock-hard naan bread'.
Amber admits her family were not 'expecting a Michelin Star experience' but said after speaking to other people in the pub, many customers were not 'blown away' by their experience either. One local commented: "It's alright. It's cheap, it's easy".
Two other fans who 'love' the venue similarly said: "It's cheap and cheerful". A group of workmen who are regulars at the local pub said: "We like it here. It's Wetherspoons. You know what you get."
Amber's boyfriend who isn't from Ramsgate remarked: "It was alright. I wasn't exactly impressed". He added it's 'just a big pub' as Amber agrees that if it's just a 'huge boozer you're after, then this is a decent pick'.
She continues: "But don't come thinking it will be the most decadent, beautiful pub in the world, which is the impression I get all too often from online reviews, when critics roll in from out of town. If you've ever been to a Wetherspoons before, you can safely wager what to expect.
"This isn't to say you shouldn't make the trip, as there's plenty here to entice you outside of the pub's novelty status. Come and enjoy the 'Super Spoons' for what it is - and be charmed by our little corner of Kent.
"The giant boozer certainly isn't our only attraction - we've got a wealth of independent businesses to champion and plenty of seaside charm. But it is one of the fixtures of our lovely town, a familiar sight among the seagulls, chippies, and little boats in the harbour".
Don't miss the latest news from around Scotland and beyond - Sign up to our daily newsletter here.
