
The Old Buttermarket
A historic pub offering delicious traditional English food and a cozy atmosphere with stunning views of Canterbury Cathedral.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Blue hour photography, calmer galleries

The Old Buttermarket

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic pub offering delicious traditional English food and a cozy atmosphere with stunning views of Canterbury Cathedral.
"Outstanding traditional English food in a historical setting with incredible service."
Secure Outdoor Seating
Sit outside for the best views of Canterbury Cathedral.
Book Ahead for Peak Times
Reservations are recommended during busy periods to ensure a table.

Quick Facts
Cuisine
British Pub
Price
Mid-range
Phone
+44 1227 462170
Address
Kent, 39 Burgate, Canterbury CT1 2HW, United Kingdom
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Charm and Cathedral Views
Step into a centuries-old pub with a cozy, dark wood interior and enjoy unparalleled views of Canterbury Cathedral.

Traditional English Fare
Savor authentic British dishes like hand-pulled lamb shank shepherd's pie and delicious fish and chips.

Historical Intrigue
Discover a pub rumored to be connected to Canterbury Cathedral via secret tunnels.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Secure Outdoor Seating
Sit outside for the best views of Canterbury Cathedral.
Book Ahead for Peak Times
Reservations are recommended during busy periods to ensure a table.
Try Daily Specials
Inquire about daily specials for potential value options and unique dishes.
Consider Off-Peak Visits
Visit during less busy hours for a more relaxed experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
Secure Outdoor Seating
Sit outside for the best views of Canterbury Cathedral.
Book Ahead for Peak Times
Reservations are recommended during busy periods to ensure a table.
Try Daily Specials
Inquire about daily specials for potential value options and unique dishes.
Consider Off-Peak Visits
Visit during less busy hours for a more relaxed experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Old Buttermarket is praised for its outstanding traditional English food and friendly service, creating a charming historical setting. Diners particularly enjoy the views of Canterbury Cathedral and the cozy pub atmosphere. However, some find the prices to be on the higher side for pub fare, and service can occasionally be slow during busy times.
"Outstanding traditional English food in a historical setting. All I can say is wow....super charming setting and even the condiments are top notch. Would totally recommend!!"
Jim Sairoglou
"Wow, what an amazing pub. The food was amazing and the service was fantastic, not too expensive happily go back highly recommended to anyone and it's dog friendly"
daniel rose
"Went tonight for a low key night out. We had a fantastic night. The Old Buttermarket was absolutely lovely. We were served by Rose and Sydney who provided absolutely incredible service, they were both friendly, helpful, and kind. Rose recommended the Chardonnay which was a great suggestion, it was very nice (Not too sweet, not dry - a perfect balance). The atmosphere was very welcoming. I would highly recommend visiting The Old Buttermarket"
M (Michael Eager -Carey-)
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, The Old Buttermarket offers outside seating, which provides a great view of Canterbury Cathedral.
Yes, the pub is noted as being dog-friendly.
The pub is known for traditional English dishes such as hand-pulled lamb shank shepherd's pie and fish and chips.
It is recommended to make reservations, especially during peak times, to secure a table.
Some guests have reported issues with the guest Wi-Fi not working.
The pub is over 500 years old and is rumored to have secret tunnels connecting it to Canterbury Cathedral.
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A colorful, friendly old pub near the cathedral, the Old Buttermarket is a great place to grab a hearty lunch and sample some traditional English fare with a modern inflection. You can sip a pint of fresh English ale from the ever-changing selection while sampling a wild boar and chorizo pie or perhaps a warming bowl of Cheddar-crumbed mac and cheese. There's been a pub on this site for more than 500 years; historical records show that there were once secret tunnels connecting it to Canterbury Cathedral.
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Fifty yards on is The Old Buttermarket, with Burgate to the right, Sun Street to the left and the precincts of the cathedral tantalisingly visible through the arch of the formidable gatehouse. If the kingdom boasts a finer confluence of medieval thoroughfares than this, it has been keeping very quiet about it this past millennium.
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in Eliot College, Mungos bar is a modern, slightly space-age, bar-turned-club set up. Most nights it's a relatively peaceful affair with tables and chairs taking up most of the floor and TVs dotted around the walls with BBC News, various sports channels and music channels on. There's a small side room with a pool table, an XBox 360, some cozy little couches and yet more tables - the Xbox 360 comes with several controllers so you and friends can thrash out whatever grudge you have in a digital showdown with whatever games they have (can't remember which ones but I know I've seen a FIFA one played for sure).
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Grab a comfy chair or big table with pals by the fire at The White Hart in the Castle Quarter, or for a great view of the towering cathedral gates, head to The Old Buttermarket for a traditional English pub experience. You can slip through the cobbled side streets towards The King’s Mile where a warm welcome awaits at The Thomas Becket, and history buffs will love the oak beams and olde world charm of The Parrot (one of the city's oldest pubs). Near by, The Dolphin is a magnet for groups wanting a hearty meal by the fire, as is The Millers Arms close to the river.
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Take a short stroll from Canterbury Cathedral or Burgate and you’ll stumble across the Old Buttermarket, a traditional pub packed full of character. With what the establishment describes as an ‘eclectic range of real ales and quality pub food’, the Old Buttermarket is all about ensuring that everyone has a great experience as soon as they walk through the doors. Famous for its network of secret tunnels hidden deep underground, designed to help monks escape from the cathedral, the Old Buttermarket has everything you need for a quality chilled afternoon.
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This charming pub, tucked away in a nook of Canterbury’s Burgate area, is a fun and quirky place to stop for a pint after exploring the city. Known by locals for its unique character, range of real ales and family-friendly food, such as pies, burgers and fish and chips, this pub has stood the test of time, having been in place on the historic square for more than 500 years. What is perhaps its most appealing factor, however, is its unrivalled view of the magnificent cathedral.
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Above: A view of the Canterbury War Memorial honoring the men of Canterbury who fought in the Great War at the Old Buttermarket. Below: My dinner for my first evening in Canterbury picked up at the local Tesco. Even though there were lots and lots of great places to get a meal, I decided that an early night with dinner in my room wasn't such a bad idea as I had a full day ahead of me bright & early the next morning.
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The Old Buttermarket, which is situated just outside the grounds of Canterbury Cathedral, is steeped in history and intrigue. It is said that the pub was once connected by secret tunnels to the cathedral, and flint pieces found in its cellars suggest it stands on Roman ruins. This traditional pub is known for its real ales and there is both inside and outside seating for you to enjoy the historical surroundings.
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Head over to The White Hart Inn to find the biggest beer garden in the city, perfect for the summer, or enjoy a pint and some award winning pies at The Old Buttermarket. If you’re a little on the alternative side and like your drinks accompanied by some rock ‘n’ roll then you’ve got to swing by the Lady Luck, or if you fancy a tipple in the city’s oldest pub then The Parrot Inn is where you need to head.
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Situated in the centre of Canterbury, the Old Buttermarket Pub is a well-known and historic pub that skillfully blends a cozy and friendly ambiance with traditional charm. With a rich past, this tavern is a popular hangout for both residents and visitors. The old building that houses The Old Buttermarket contributes to its distinct charm.
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We couldn’t do a list of the best fish and chips in Canterbury and not throw in a conventional pub now, could we?. Tucked away down the cobblestone streets of this stunning town, The Old Buttermarket is a staple for students looking for fish and chips in Canterbury. You’d love their big portions and crispy, battered Cod!
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Located in the heart of Canterbury, The Old Buttermarket is a traditional pub with a warm and inviting atmosphere. It offers a wide selection of beers, ciders, and spirits, as well as a menu featuring hearty British dishes. Their Sunday roast is a must-try, with tender meat, crispy roast potatoes, and all the trimmings.
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Ideally located close to Canterbury Cathedral and the gate entrance into the cathedral complex, the Old Buttermarket is the perfect spot to refuel in between sights. There’s a lively atmosphere and great to sit out when the weather is good. Great for people watching.
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Just outside Canterbury in Bridge, meanwhile, can be found Bridge Farmers’ Market, which opens every second and fourth Saturday of the month at the Red Lion Inn, and sells meat, game, vegetables, fudge, chocolate and juice, all from within 30 miles of Bridge in Kent.
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The Old Buttermarket – This pub serves traditional British pub fare as well as some specialties that will make your mouth water!. They also boast a large selection of whiskies and ales, should you fancy a pint with your lunch.
8-9Nov2024 Rising Tide Craft Beer Festival
Head towards the entrance for Canterbury Cathedral in the Buttermarket, and look for the Visitor Centre entrance. Please have your ticket ready once you arrive at the festival. You are welcome to print your ticket out or have it on your smartphone.
How can I find best night out in Canterbury?
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Located in the bustling square outside of the Cathedral, The Old Buttermarket is a great place to pop in for lunch to break up a day of sightseeing or just grab a pint and people-watch in their outdoor seating area.
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Located in the right corner of pretty Buttermarket, is a pub that is not common for the originality of its name!.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit