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Canterbury

The Fordwich Arms, located in the quaint town of Fordwich, Kent, has garnered acclaim for its Michelin-starred cuisine and charming setting. The restaurant offers a variety of menus, including à la carte, tasting, vegetarian, and vegan options, all emphasizing local produce. The ambiance is enhanced by a 1930s bar, oak-paneled dining room, and a riverside terrace. Guests appreciate the relaxed yet refined dining experience, with many highlighting the attentive service and the use of seasonal, locally sourced ingredients.

The Fordwich Arms: Michelin-Starred Dining in England's Smallest Town 

Nestled in the quaint village of Fordwich, just a stone's throw from Canterbury, The Fordwich Arms offers an unforgettable culinary journey through refined British cuisine. Revered as one of England’s hidden gems, this Michelin-starred restaurant enchants guests with its warm oak-paneled interiors, cozy fireplaces, and a charming riverside terrace perfect for relaxed dining.

Exceptional dining experience with local charm

Under the expert guidance of Chef Daniel Smith and his wife Natasha, The Fordwich Arms has crafted a reputation for exquisite dishes that celebrate locally sourced ingredients. Diners frequently praise the tasting menu, a carefully curated selection of six courses, each plate presented with impeccable technique and creativity. From succulent quail to delicate hake, the menu offers an elegant twist on traditional British fare that delights even the most discerning palates.

The ambiance strikes the perfect balance between top-tier sophistication and laid-back comfort, making it ideal for both special occasions and relaxed gatherings.

Beyond its culinary excellence, The Fordwich Arms caters thoughtfully to visitors’ needs. Whether you're enjoying lunch, dinner, or a coffee on the outdoor terrace overlooking the river, you can expect attentive service and a welcoming atmosphere. The establishment features free parking both on-site and on the street, making it easily accessible for travelers.

The venue is fully wheelchair accessible and dog-friendly, allowing guests to bring along their well-behaved furry friends in designated areas. It also boasts a well-stocked bar with a selection of fine wines, including English vineyards, as well as craft beers and creative cocktails.

What makes The Fordwich Arms a must-visit destination?

 - A tasting menu showcasing innovative British dishes made from fresh, local ingredients.

 - Enjoy your meal amidst the historic oak walls or outside on the picturesque terrace by the river.

 - Perfect for food lovers seeking an elegant dining experience without any stuffiness.

 - Attentive staff, wheelchair access, and convenient parking enhance every visit.

What is the dress code at The Fordwich Arms?

 The dress code is casual, allowing guests to enjoy a relaxed dining experience.

Is there parking available at The Fordwich Arms?

 Yes, there is free parking available for guests.

Does The Fordwich Arms offer vegetarian options?

 Yes, the restaurant provides vegetarian-friendly dishes and can accommodate dietary preferences upon request.

Is The Fordwich Arms wheelchair accessible?

 Yes, the restaurant is wheelchair accessible, ensuring comfort for all guests.

 Yes, The Fordwich Arms is dog-friendly, allowing well-behaved dogs in designated areas.

The Fordwich Arms enjoys glowing praise for its exceptional food, welcoming atmosphere, and attentive service. Guests consistently highlight the relaxed yet refined vibe as a key reason to return. The tasting menus are frequently celebrated for their thoughtful use of regional ingredients and flawless presentation, making it a beloved destination among food enthusiasts and locals alike.

Europe

United Kingdom

Nestled in the charming village of Fordwich, just a stone's throw from Canterbury, The Fordwich Arms is a delightful bar and restaurant that offers a unique dining experience. Known for its refined British cuisine, this establishment features an inviting oak-walled interior complete with cozy fireplaces and a vintage bar. Guests can enjoy a riverside terrace, making it an ideal spot for both casual dining and special occasions. With a focus on quality and presentation, The Fordwich Arms has garnered attention for its exquisite set menus and a la carte options, making it a must-visit for food enthusiasts.

The Fordwich Arms specializes in exceptional British cuisine, offering a range of dishes that highlight local ingredients and culinary artistry. Highlights include:

A la carte menu featuring seasonal dishes.

Set menu options that include multiple courses, perfect for a special dining experience.

An extensive wine list featuring selections from English vineyards.

Outdoor seating available for enjoying meals in a picturesque setting.

Located on King Street in Fordwich, The Fordwich Arms is conveniently situated near several attractions in Canterbury. Visitors can explore the historic city, famous for its stunning cathedral and rich heritage. Other nearby points of interest include:

Canterbury Cathedral - a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Canterbury Tales attraction, offering a glimpse into medieval life.

St. Augustine's Abbey, another UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Refined British cuisine in an oak-walled room with fireplaces, a vintage bar & a riverside terrace.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURQaWQtdEdnEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ62pJuH7K3kcRIlpgEkFwFks/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURQaWQtdEdnEAE

What an amazing culinary experience! Excellent Food! Excellent Service! Excellent Value! £45 for the set menu which ended up being six courses, every course cooked and presented to perfection! Best ever dining experience! Thank you 🙏🏻

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNIaTV6WU1nEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ62pJuH7K3kcRIlpgEkFwFks/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNIaTV6WU1nEAE

An incredible experience, all round. The service, food and atmosphere were outstanding. I love the fact that this restaurant doesn't have a 'stuffy' vibe. It's top class but in a relaxed way. Will definitely be going back.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUROa2FYblV3EAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ62pJuH7K3kcRIlpgEkFwFks/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUROa2FYblV3EAE

What an experience. 1st Michelin star restaurant we have been to and it did not disappoint. My daughter and son-in-law visit high end, Michelin restaurants a lot more than us and they said it was the best they have had. Well done to the  team at The Fordwich Arms. Of course we had the taster menu. It was delicious.  My wife wouldn't choose fish on any menu but she loved those dishes the best especially the oyster. We visited the Fordwich Arms about 20 years ago with my in-laws and it was great then. Pub hasn't changed much which is great. It has kept its old world charm. Service was lovely. Thank you. The Cooper's

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNMMzR2d213RRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ62pJuH7K3kcRIlpgEkFwFks/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNMMzR2d213RRAB

The food was exceptional as was the wine selection which included a number of English vineyards. We chose the â la carte menu and were very pleased with the choices.

I suppose the only comment we would make is that it's basically a pub albeit an elevated one  and the service reflects that. Which doesn't mean that anyone was rude - far from it - but there was a fair bit of shouting and loud talking in/out of the kitchen and up/down the bar. My expectation when paying £75pp is that the staff would perhaps be a little more circumspect but in no way did it detract from the absolutely amazing food.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUM3NEpMbndnRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ62pJuH7K3kcRIlpgEkFwFks/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUM3NEpMbndnRRAB

I had a wonderful time at the Fordwich Arms. The food was delicious and the staff very kind! I had the Hake, The Quail, the pistachio and raspberry tart. My fiancé got the Pork instead of the Hake.

The Fordwich Arms: Michelin Star Dining in Canterbury

The Fordwich Arms, located in Fordwich, Kent, is a Michelin-starred pub and restaurant known for its exceptional cuisine and charming setting. Since its reopening in 2017 under the ownership of Daniel and Natasha Smith, the establishment has gained acclaim for its innovative use of local Kentish ingredients and its relaxed yet refined dining experience.

The Fordwich Arms: A Historic Culinary Landmark in Canterbury United Kingdom 

Nestled on King Street in the quaint town of Fordwich, near Canterbury in Kent, England, The Fordwich Arms has a rich history dating back nearly two centuries. Established in 1828 as a traditional English pub, this charming establishment has gracefully evolved while retaining its old-world charm and character.

From its inception in 1828, The Fordwich Arms served as a welcoming local pub, a gathering spot for the community where guests could enjoy hearty British fare in a cozy atmosphere. For many years, it maintained a traditional pub identity, cherished by locals and visitors alike for its authentic ambiance and riverside terrace.

A New Chapter Under Daniel and Natasha Smith

The year 2017 marked a pivotal moment when Chef Daniel Smith and his wife Natasha took ownership of The Fordwich Arms. With vision and passion, they revitalized the venue, transforming it from a traditional pub into a refined dining destination. Their dedication to British cuisine combined with an inviting, relaxed atmosphere set the stage for remarkable success.

Just a year after the Smiths’ acquisition, The Fordwich Arms earned its coveted Michelin star in 2018, a testament to the exceptional quality and creativity of its culinary offerings. The following year, it was honored as the Restaurant of the Year at the AA Hospitality Awards, further cementing its reputation as a premier dining experience in the United Kingdom.

The Fordwich Arms beautifully blends its rich history with modern refinement. Guests enjoy an oak-walled dining room featuring warming fireplaces and a vintage bar, complemented by a serene riverside terrace. The menu showcases refined British cuisine with meticulous attention to detail, reflecting Daniel Smith’s culinary expertise.

 in 1828 as a traditional pub with a timeless atmosphere.

 by Daniel and Natasha Smith since 2017 into a Michelin-starred restaurant.

 a Michelin star in 2018 and named AA Restaurant of the Year in 2019.

 refined British cuisine in an inviting oak-paneled setting with fireplaces and a riverside terrace.

Outdoor Seating

Parking

The Fordwich Arms is a charming pub in Fordwich, Canterbury, offering refined British cuisine in a cozy atmosphere with oak-walled rooms, fireplaces, and a riverside terrace. It serves as a perfect refuge after exploring the historic city of Canterbury, providing a genuine taste of local culture.

The Fordwich Arms

In the quaint village of Fordwich, The Fordwich Arms stands as a warm and inviting pub, enticing locals and travelers alike with promises of culinary delights and a cozy atmosphere. This charming establishment offers sweeping views of verdant countryside and the gentle flow of the River Stour nearby, creating a serene backdrop for leisurely afternoons or lively evenings. The interior blends rustic charm with modern comforts, featuring wooden beams and a crackling fireplace. The menu celebrates British cuisine, crafted from seasonal and regional ingredients, tantalizing taste buds with dishes that evoke nostalgia while embracing innovation. Positioned only a stone's throw from the historic city of Canterbury, The Fordwich Arms serves as a perfect refuge after exploring the magnificent Canterbury Cathedral.

A selection of starters, mains, and desserts focusing on local Kentish ingredients, served in a relaxed pub environment.

Smoked Chalk Stream Trout

Chicken Liver Parfait

Morel Mushroom

Cacklebean Egg

South Coast Native Lobster

South Coast Turbot

38 Day Dry Aged Hereford Beef

Black Bomber and Caramelised Onion Pithivier

Roast Guinea Fowl

Fordwich Arms' Snickers

Yorkshire Rhubarb Mille-Feuille

Mascarpone Mousse

Cheese Selection

À la Carte Menu

Sample menu at the fordwich arms - refined british cuisine in kentish style.

Nestled in the heart of Canterbury, The Fordwich Arms offers a sophisticated take on modern British dining, infused with the rich flavors of local Kentish produce. This Michelin-starred gem boasts an oak-walled dining room complete with fireplaces and a vintage bar, creating an inviting yet upscale atmosphere for food lovers and discerning travelers alike.

Begin your culinary journey with exquisite starters that blend delicate tastes and textures. The Duck liver parfait is decadently paired with sweet Sauternes wine, earthy beetroot, and soft warm doughnuts, offering a lush and comforting start. Alternatively, savor the beautifully roasted Orkney scallop complemented by fresh peas, crisp white grapes, and a tangy verjus dressing for a refreshing seafood indulgence.

The main courses showcase masterful British fare with a focus on local ingredients and seasonality. The Blackface lamb features a succulent rack and tender braised shoulder, harmoniously balanced with young turnips and Isle of Wight tomatoes, delivering robust yet nuanced flavors. For a luxurious seafood option, the South Coast turbot is enhanced by aromatic summer truffle, sweet grelot onions, and a rich Madeira sauce, presenting an elegant and memorable plate.

End your meal on a sweet note with inventive desserts that marry classic and contemporary influences. The signature Fordwich tiramisu offers a luscious, creamy finish with an Italian twist. Alternatively, delight in the cherry, burnt vanilla, and yoghurt tart which combines tart fruitiness with subtle smoky vanilla and tangy yoghurt for a refreshing yet indulgent finale.

The Fordwich Arms not only excels in food but also in beverage offerings, featuring an impressive selection of fine wines including several from English vineyards, carefully chosen to complement their refined menu. The welcoming vintage bar serves expertly crafted cocktails, perfect for starting or ending your dining experience. With its riverside terrace and free parking, it’s an ideal spot for relaxed lunches, intimate dinners, or special group gatherings in the Kent countryside.

 Duck liver parfait with Sauternes, beetroot, and warm doughnuts; Roast Orkney scallop with pea, white grape, and verjus.

 Blackface lamb rack and braised shoulder with young turnip and Isle of Wight tomato; South Coast turbot with summer truffle, grelot onion, and Madeira.

 Fordwich tiramisu; Cherry, burnt vanilla, and yoghurt tart.

Discover The Fordwich Arms in Canterbury - a quaint bar and restaurant offering local flavors and charming ambiance. Book your table today!

The Fordwich Arms: Quaint Restaurant in Canterbury

Fordwich Municipality

A five-course tasting menu with wine pairing, showcasing the best of local Kentish ingredients.

Tasting Menu

A five-course vegetarian tasting menu with wine pairing, highlighting seasonal produce.

Vegetarian Tasting Menu

A five-course vegan tasting menu with wine pairing, featuring plant-based dishes.

Vegan Tasting Menu

The Fordwich Arms: Michelin-starred British dining in Canterbury's charming riverside village.

Nestled on King Street in the quaint village of Fordwich, just a short drive from Canterbury, The Fordwich Arms offers an extraordinary culinary journey that perfectly balances refined elegance with a welcoming, relaxed atmosphere. This Michelin-starred gem is celebrated for its superb British cuisine served in a beautifully oak-paneled dining room complete with cozy fireplaces and a vintage bar. For those who enjoy alfresco dining, the picturesque riverside terrace provides a serene backdrop to savor exquisite meals.

Exceptional menus crafted for memorable experiences

The Fordwich Arms is renowned for its Michelin-starred dining, featuring a spectacular five-course tasting menu that includes delightful snacks, freshly baked breads, and elegant petit fours. Priced around £85, this carefully curated experience highlights seasonal British ingredients prepared with precision and creativity, making each course a celebration of flavor and presentation.

For guests seeking a lighter yet equally satisfying option, the midweek a la carte set menu at approximately £35 offers three courses accompanied by homemade breads and a variety of canapés. This menu maintains the high standards of the Michelin-starred kitchen while providing excellent value without compromising on taste or quality.

Amenities and atmosphere to complement your dining

Beyond its culinary excellence, The Fordwich Arms provides a comfortable, inviting setting ideal for special occasions or relaxed gatherings. The establishment offers outdoor seating that lets diners enjoy the scenic riverside views, with free parking available both onsite and on the street, making access hassle-free.

Enjoy a sophisticated meal in an oak-walled room with fireplaces or on the charming riverside terrace.

A refined bar offering a curated wine list including select English vineyards, alongside craft beers and elegant cocktails.

Attentive and professional staff ensure a memorable dining experience while maintaining a relaxed and welcoming vibe.

Welcoming to groups and perfect for intimate gatherings, though not recommended for young children to preserve the refined ambiance.

Whether you are a foodie craving an exceptional Michelin-starred tasting menu, a local seeking a refined yet unpretentious meal, or a traveler exploring the Kent countryside, The Fordwich Arms promises an unforgettable dining experience. Its combination of traditional charm, exquisite cuisine, and accessible location near Canterbury makes it a standout destination for gourmet enthusiasts and discerning diners alike.

Kent

Experience gourmet British cuisine at Fordwich Arms, a Michelin-starred pub in Canterbury, Kent, with river views and seasonal menus. Book now!

Fordwich Arms - Michelin Dining in Canterbury, Kent

Discover the history and charm of Fordwich Arms, a top-rated restaurant in Canterbury, Kent, known for local ingredients, relaxed ambiance, and Michelin accolades. Learn more!

Explore Fordwich Arms - About the Historic Kent Pub

Check opening hours for Fordwich Arms in Canterbury, Kent, and plan your visit. Reservations recommended for this popular pub with outdoor seating on the river.