Hengist restaurant in Aylesford is a terrific modern eclectic restaurant retrofitted into the pleasing surroundings of an ancient edifice. The recent makeover is courtesy of the inspired team behind Thackeray’s in Tunbridge Wells, where Richard Phillips holds a Michelin star. He’s executive chef here too, with Daniel Hatton in the kitchen. Décor is marvelously modern and cool, making smart use of wood, stone and suede with funky detailing like smoked glass or taffeta curtains, while the al fresco terrace is the only place to be when summer comes. The menu is modern French and the wine list inspired.