The Ancient Raj
Experience authentic Indian cuisine within a historic 15th-century building, offering a unique blend of flavor and atmosphere.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Blue hour photography, calmer galleries
The Ancient Raj
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience authentic Indian cuisine within a historic 15th-century building, offering a unique blend of flavor and atmosphere.
"The best Indian food in Canterbury, serving superb dishes with friendly service in a charming setting!"
Reserve Your Table
Booking in advance is recommended, especially for weekend dining, to avoid waiting.
Ask for Recommendations
Staff are happy to guide you to house specials like the flavorful Chicken Dhakeshwari.
Quick Facts
Cuisine
Indian
Price
Mid-range
Phone
+44 1227 455882
Address
25-26 North Ln, Canterbury, CT2 7EE, United Kingdom
Website
ancient-raj.com/Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Authentic Indian Flavors
Savor traditional Indian cuisine with a wide array of curries, biryanis, and tandoori delights.
Charming Historic Setting
Dine in a beautifully preserved 15th-century building, offering a unique and cozy atmosphere.
Flavorful House Specials
Experience unique dishes like Chicken Dhakeshwari, a mild curry with coconut and mango.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Menu
Most Popular Items
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Reserve Your Table
Booking in advance is recommended, especially for weekend dining, to avoid waiting.
Ask for Recommendations
Staff are happy to guide you to house specials like the flavorful Chicken Dhakeshwari.
Weekday Visits
Opt for a weekday visit for a potentially less crowded and more relaxed dining experience.
Unique Condiments
Try the unique poppadom condiments; one is described as moist and full of flavor.
Tips
from all over the internet
Reserve Your Table
Booking in advance is recommended, especially for weekend dining, to avoid waiting.
Ask for Recommendations
Staff are happy to guide you to house specials like the flavorful Chicken Dhakeshwari.
Weekday Visits
Opt for a weekday visit for a potentially less crowded and more relaxed dining experience.
Unique Condiments
Try the unique poppadom condiments; one is described as moist and full of flavor.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Diners consistently praise The Ancient Raj for its exceptional food quality, generous portions, and the authentic flavors of its Indian cuisine. The friendly and attentive staff, combined with the charming historic ambiance of the 15th-century building, contribute to a highly recommended dining experience. While the restaurant can get busy, the overall consensus is that the quality of food and service make it a standout choice in Canterbury.
"Very good food and service!
My Wife and friends love this particular cuisine and certainly loved the food here, I personally don't usually choose it however I also thoroughly enjoyed the food. We would all happily return again and recommend a visit or they offer take out.
The service was great from all the staff, they were attentive, polite and friendly. There is a car park opposite the restaurant but for the cheapest parking in Canterbury is usually castle streets multi story."
Ben
"Excellent food & service in lovely surroundings. We had mixed starter, onion bhajees, chicken chettinat, lamb naga, garlic nan, sag aloo & plain rice. Was all very fresh, good size portions & served at a good temperature on hot plates which is a plus, plus very tasty. The best Indian food in Canterbury 100%. Visiting here is a must!"
Amy Hopton-Smith
"Excellent in all areas and a perfect place to end our trip to Canterbury, is the food nice? 2 empty plates so you decide."
Jenny Beswick
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
While you might be seated quickly even without one, reservations are recommended, especially for busy periods like weekend evenings, to ensure a table.
House specials like Chicken Dhakeshwari are highly recommended, featuring a mild blend of coconut and mango. Many reviews also praise the curries and tandoori options.
The restaurant is set in a charming and historic 15th-century building, providing a cozy and unique dining atmosphere.
Yes, reviews frequently mention good-sized portions with ample amounts of meat in the dishes.
Yes, The Ancient Raj offers takeaway services, allowing you to enjoy their authentic Indian cuisine at home.
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Featured in these publications
The Best Places To Eat In Canterbury Revealed
For those craving a bit of spice, The Ancient Raj brings the flavours of India to Canterbury, and is a must-try whilst studying here. With their mouth watering selection of curries, biryanis, and tandoori delights, this traditional Indian restaurant is sure to become your regular haunt. We highly suggest opting for one of their house specials, like the Chicken Dhakeshwari, cooked with coconut, mango pulp and mild spices.
5 restaurants to visit in Canterbury
The Ancient Raj is by far my favourite curry house in Canterbury. The restaurant is situated in a very old building on the outskirts of Canterbury town centre and the place is always packed. Starters and main courses are on the slightly pricier side, but the quality of food and service make the price forgivable.
Canterbury’s top 10 restaurants and cafes – Kent Students
The restaurant is set in a beautiful partially-restored 15th Century Grade II listed building. The Ancient Raj is a fully licensed, air-conditioned restaurant. The spacious dining area and gallery lounge means you can dine and relax in comfort.
Indian Restaurant Canterbury Kent Recipes
The best Indian restaurant in Canterbury, UK, with an outstanding selection of recipes. The chicken jalfrezi dish is delicious with the right amount of spice!. The service is friendly and attentive.
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I remember the menu being larger, but there should be something for everyone here.The restaurant was busy on this Saturday evening, but both the service and quality of food was excellent.
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Places to eat
We often stop at Chapter on Burgate, just next to the cathedral in Canterbury (or pick up takeaway) - 01227 809198
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