Welcome to our take on the Best Places to Eat in Canterbury. In this pretty mediaeval city, there are so many options to choose from that it can be difficult to know where to start! So, we’ve put together this guide with some of our top recommendations in the city centre. Read on to find out what the best places to eat in Canterbury are and how to find them!
The Old Buttermarket
A truly historic site directly opposite the Christchurch Gate, you can expect to get the traditional English pub experience. It has been a public house for over 500 years, previously called the Black Boy but is now named after the butter market that used to be held in the square outside many years ago. They have an exciting range of real ales and drinks, including Old Peculier, Harvey’s and Plum Porter. And if you’re hungry, they serve up quality pub food such as savoury pies with mash, and fish and chips. Make sure to ask the wait times for food if it’s a busy day, because this pub is very popular!
The Veg Box Café
The perfect place for anyone looking for vegetarian and vegan food. This restaurant serves exclusively plant-based food, with a vibrant range of organic, healthy dishes so tasty that even those who aren’t vegan can’t resist. Offering breakfast, lunch and afternoon tea, they even cater to gluten-free diets, so no matter the dietary requirement, everyone can enjoy their time here. Don’t forget to ask about the day’s specials! Finally, you can finish your meal off with coffee and cake–and of course, dairy-free alternatives are available.
Old Weavers House
Located by King’s Bridge, right on the bank of the River Stour, this restaurant has a long history. The building itself dates back to the year 1500, and gets its name from when Canterbury became a centre for weaving and textile trade in the 16th century. Nowadays, it is a thriving restaurant and due to its charming black and white façade, one of the most photographed buildings in the city. The most famous dish here is undoubtedly their pies, served in a traditional hot skillet. The classic flavour is steak and Guinness, but they have more exotic flavours like duck and apricot, lamb and rosemary, and venison available too.
Kitch Café
Just a stone’s throw away from the River Stour, right next to the Old Weavers House, this bright and airy café specialises in fresh, homemade food made with all natural, seasonal ingredients. They offer all day brunch, with everything from eggs royale to pancakes to goddess bowls. If you’re in the mood for something sweet, we recommend the banana bread bowl! Their drinks menu is extensive and perfect for those looking to try something new alongside the classics: ruby hot chocolate, charcoal lattes and an impressive selection of black, herbal and fruit teas. For a refreshing café experience, head to Kitch.
Socialite
This rooftop restaurant and bar is the ideal place to unwind in stunning surroundings. Socialite is a modern and stylish restaurant with breath-taking views of Canterbury Cathedral, the architectural masterpiece that overlooks the rest of the city. Live music, friendly staff, delicious food and terrace seating make this an unmissable experience for those who are looking for an upscale dining experience in the heart of the city. Tuck into one of their famous steaks, enjoy some house cocktails or your choice of wine, then finish up with a tasty dessert for the perfect meal at Socialite.
Fudge Kitchen
As one of the most traditional English sweet treats, fudge is the perfect souvenir to bring home from Canterbury. The Fudge Kitchen is extremely central, just around the corner from the cathedral’s Christchurch Gate. Here, you get delicious handmade fudge, made in small batches with only the finest natural ingredients using a 200-year-old recipe. As a self-proclaimed “Theatre of Fudge”, the fudgeteers like to put on a show by preparing the fudge on slabs in full view of their customers! They offer free samples of any flavour so you can try before you buy, then pick your favourite. It lasts for 2 to 3 weeks unrefrigerated after purchase, so you can enjoy it even after you leave Canterbury behind.
Tiny Tim’s Tearoom
Of the many little cafes lining the streets of Canterbury, Tiny Tim’s Tearoom is a favourite of locals and tourists alike. There are many sweet and savoury treats offered on their menu, but the most famous of all is definitely their amazing cream tea. A traditional English snack made up of scones, cream and jam served with a pot of tea–though the scones here are double the usual size! There’s also rumours of ghosts residing in the upstairs part of the tearoom, who are harmless but mischievous and love having visitors…
Explore more of England’s food!
Thank you for reading this short guide to Best Places to Eat in Canterbury, and we hope to welcome you adventurous foodies to this historic city soon. And if you would like to book your ticket to Canterbury straightaway, or explore more of the food other places in England have to offer, check out our amazing Day Tours from London. We look forward to seeing you on tour!
