Abbot's Fireside Restaurant in Shepway

Return visit for Wedding Anniversary lunch. Not disappointed at the choice of venue. Beautiful old building, lovely atmosphere and the food was delicious and plentiful. Staff very attentive and friendly. Back again next week.

Stunning pub, with character in abundance. Food was tasty and staff very friendly. Would highly recommend. Felt very welcomed will be back again.

We had a warm welcome on a miserable overcast day. The menu was varied and interesting and we took our time to choose. The fire made the pub warm and cosy while we waited for our meal

I’ve been wanting to stay here for years, having driven past it for 30 plus years. We stayed this Friday. The price, including a wonderful breakfast, was very reasonable. The room was great with an en-suite. The welcome was genuine and the owner was very friendly and chatty. I cannot recommend this highly enough. As for the inglenook fireplace, absolutely spectacular. We cannot wait to go back.

Had a fantastic Sunday roast , very friendly, welcoming staff! Visited with our Basset hound walking group, 16 hounds & 15 owners, was made to feel very welcome, the food was tasty and great value, served by very friendly staff! Will definitely be returning

Didn't even get in the place. A member of staff came out and accused my husband of parking outside the pub for the last 3 days when we said we don't live round here, he carried on then said oh sorry wrong car. Then when we got inside and sat down we was still upset about being confronted like that only to be told by the other member of staff he's apologised so loose the attitude or leave. So we left and won't be returning ever.

Amazing surprise for our 55 anniversary food amazing surprise card steak amazing table surprise all red hearts candle roses and the food amazing so fresh not frozen wine amazing staff so helpful desert you will die for chef amazing truly made our special day staff and management amazing made us very happy event thank you all xx

Called in on Saturday evening with my 12 year old son as the restaurant in the hotel over the road where we were staying was closed as they had no chef. Despite being fully booked they managed to squeeze us in and we had an excellent dinner in lovely surroundings with excellent service. Well done and thank you,

Felt welcome as soon as we walked in the door. T was great along with all the other staff. Food is fabulous, especially the pizzas! Even had enough to take home too! Highly recommend! Do not miss out if you're in Elham!

Really enjoyed our meal at the Abbots Fireside. A friendly welcome, nice food, and all in a really interesting / historic setting. Reasonably priced, and far better value than the Kings Arms down the road !

Had one night in a double room, and therefore dinner, breakfast and a couple of gin tonic in the bar. If you are looking for a traditional English pub/Inn with all, then this is the place to go - Good food and fantastic atmosphere.

Just been for dinner during a long weekend in Elham. Upon arrival we were greeted warmly and shown to our table. Lady who served us excellent - really friendly and helpful. Enjoyed chilli con carne whilst my wife had pizza. Then apple crumble and custard for dessert. Delicious! Really nice interior-very “olde worlde” with beams and a huge fireplace (not on in July of course!) Would throughly recommend based on our experience!

Greeted warmly by the host. Had a lovely spot in the shade in the back garden. Service was excellent and attentive. The food was generous and delicious. What not to like?

We enjoyed a lovely Sunday lunch at a reasonable price. Service was quick despite the restaurant being full. Food was well cooked and piping hot. Very friendly and welcoming staff.

Perfect setting for a family meal . Warm cosy setting with a proper pub feel to the place . Food was amazing with impeccable service . And the icing on the cake a perfect pint of Peroni

Loved this ancient inn with its amazing original decor and warming open fires. We just stopped in for sandwiches while on a country walk but will definitely visit again. Good food, friendly staff and it is dog-friendly too.

Lovely food and accommodation , stopped here overnight on way back from france . 15 mins from Folkestone . Comfy , very clean rooms . Fantastic large but quaint bar and dining area with enormous log burning fireplace . Pet friendly too .

Weekend away - highly recommend , quirky old pub , lovely food and atmosphere with brilliant hosts and staff

Popped in for pre drinks before a meal somewhere else, beautiful roaring fire, local people seemed friendly and welcoming staff. Only gave 4stars as no lime slice for my drink .

Passé la porte, vous plongez dans un épisode de Barnaby, Poirot ou Miss Marple. Un pub du XVème siècle où sur les murs en torchis blanc encadrés de poutres noires, les miroirs dorés reflètent l'histoire du lieu. L'accueil par le propriétaire ou par le personnel font de vous, immédiatement, un habitué. Le cidre est bon et pas cher, la cuisine agréable et variée. Après dîner, buvez un dernier verre près de la cheminée, dans un des grands fauteuils et profitez de ce monde préservé.

Me and my good friend visited this lovely place for lunch today. The service was splendid, a lovely young lady met our every need and made a great fuss of my dog. The food was absolutely beautiful, I had steak and my friend had Scampi, both followed by Sundaes. Near the end of our meal we were interrupted by an older man who was very intrusive. He informed us he was the owner of the pub and this ruined our whole experience. He was very persistent and even followed us out of the door for further conversation. We both left feeling very uncomfortable. I’m sorry but we won’t be returning if this man is there again!

We had a lovely three course Sunday Lunch at one of of our old favourites. Peter’s empire has moved on snd the service is great. Decent fayre well cooked in immense surroundings. Served by the 17 bus this is a great venue steeped in history . We shall return.

Excellent interior. Average food. Pleasant waiter. Very rude barmaid. Not pleasant. Rose and Crown has reopened and the Kings Arms will open soon. Take your business to them and you will receive a better welcome!

This restaurant has really improved since my last visit which was pre-covid. The interior is amazing: beautiful, ancient carvings, huge inglenook fireplace, full of historic architecture and interest, yet also bright and clean. The food was unpretentious and very very good! All at a reasonable price. Service excellent. Lovely outdoor area. Toilets modern, clean. I was very impressed with this restaurant and will be returning soon.

Lovely lunch in the nice and sunny garden with great service.would recommend a trip out to the Elham valley to find the Abbot's fireside in the centre of the village of Elham

Service was first class with a lovely welcome. Cold wet day with lovely fires roaring. Walkers coming in for a rest in the snug area and made to feel welcome. Food we had was delicious and well presented. Left with a full belly and no complaints. What more could you ask for on a cold wet Sunday. Lovely roast. Will be back.

Wonderful pub, great friendly atmosphere, absolutely wonderful staff, can’t wait to go back again! We didn’t eat this visit but the food looked amazing.

Lovely pub with really interesting decor, great food and choices and exceptional service. We would highly recommend and will return.

We booked lunch for 6 people over the phone as we have had nice lunches and dinners there before. We were not told there was a restricted menu (only sandwiches) as unfortunately the chef had hurt his shoulder. We should have been told this on the phone when booking or a courtesy callback to explain before we arrived. When we arrived I ordered a beer at the bar and then joined the rest of my party who then informed me it was just sandwiches. I had no idea it was a restricted menus before ordering the beer. We decided to go to get lunch somewhere else as it was getting late and had to leave quickly abandoning our drinks on the table. I asked if it was possible to have a little off the bill for the drinks and was promptly just told no. I explained that we should have been informed it was a restricted menu but was met with defensiveness and aggression from the bar lady (who is the sister of the chef). Peter Malkin who is a lovely gentleman and owner sided with me but was also shouted down by the bar lady. I was then told to “piss off” by another male member of staff while talking to Peter outside, who was absolutely appalled at his staffs behaviour. It’s such a shame as we have had lovely food there before and great chats with Peter who likes to visit the tables. We must have caught them in an off day but I did not expect to be treated like this. Sorry to write this review Peter. I hope we can catchup and clear the air next time you are visiting your property in Bridge.

We just had a lovely little lunch and coffee session at this quaint historic pub. It's super charming, with very attentive staff, who were very helpful with my disabled grandfather- nothing was too much trouble. The staff were very upfront and honest about what they could and couldn't cater for today ( we didn't book for so understanbly couldn't cater for my gf).We, however, found their lunch menu to be very accomodating of what you'd expect from a typical country pub lunchtime menu- my mother and grandfather where delighted at the quality and quantity of their food. Despite the commotion caused by a very aggressive and rude customer, our experience was not hindered because of the delightful food, and the very apologetic staff who handled this verbally agressive individual very professionally. I would highly recommend this cosy little pub for a light bite lunch with family and friends. The atmosphere is delightful, the staff sweet, and the food is very tasty! My cappuccino was the best I've had in a long time, and I used to be a lead barista!!!! Thank you, keep doing what you do as you're doing it perfectly!

Food was average and only offered sandwiches. Bar staff were very rude and aggressive towards a customer who complained about the service. The building itself is amazing and I would imagine very cosy when the fires are lit. Will probably not return.

Haven't been to this pub for a few years so decided to try it out again for Sunday lunch with friends. I was surprised to see how busy it was with most tables taken which was a good sign. We were welcomed on entering the pub and shown to our table. The staff were very friendly and although busy still had time to make sure you were looked after. The food was excellent and all the courses came out quickly, so no long wait for our meals. We really enjoyed the time spent there, especially with the log fires. We will go back

What a wonderful stay I had with my partner. The hosts Dean and Jade made us feel very welcome and were keen to ensure our every needs were met. meeting the owner Peter and hearing the wonderful history and stories of the 14th century building...

This establishment is under new management. but still has the same owner since 2020 Food and service good but I was ill after eating there.

We had a delicious Sunday roast at this newly-refurbished historical inn. The food was delicious. I had roast beef and my partner had nut roast, both accompanied by lots of fresh vegetables.

lovely service excellent food nice location and decor and open fireplace perfect food and service happy people food comes so nice excellent staff so polite and cheerful beautiful decor touching decor first class

I really can’t fault this place - great food, great staff & great/well kept drinks. If there is no parking near by, there is a car park at the village square.

Thanks Abbots Fireside for a lovely lunch. Nothing too much trouble and the food was great. This was our second lunchtime visit and we never feel rushed. The waiting staff are very helpful without being intrusive. Lovely cosy interior too.

I had been wanting to try this restaurant for years and finally got there. Just as I hoped it would be - a beautiful building with open fire and welcoming atmosphere. Food was great and the fact you could have half a portion of most...

We has a roast dinner which was cooked to perfection, but what also stood out was one of the staff. Isabel was fantastic, nothing was too much trouble for her even thought it was busy here,she kept on smiling. I hope the management pass on...

Lovely warm atmosphere on a cold winters day and had full roast with all the trimmings, got to love a proper Sunday lunch which they do very well here!

We booked the King Charles II family room for an over night stay while in Canterbury for our son's County football match. On arrival our first thoughts were, what a stunning building! We were greeted warmly by the staff and shown to our room, up...

I've been here a few times now living reasonably close to the venue. The food is delicious and always hot, beautifully presented and the staff are extremely welcoming and helpful. The atmosphere is lovely and always warm. I love the Sea Bass and the Tagliatelle...

The setting was perfect for a family celebration. We were very well looked after and the meals were excellent.

Having recently been lucky enough to settle in Elham the added benefit is The Abbot's Fireside. From our first visit we have felt comfortable and relaxed here. We've enjoyed numerous lunches and dinners already and called by for the very best coffee around morning and...

Initially went to this venue to meet friend for coffee but stayed for lunch as well! The ambience here is very homely and the staff are very friendly and welcoming. Excellent coffee followed by a fish and chip lunch. There is a good varied menu...

This is a lovely old building and staff were friendly although service could have been quicker, sadly the food lets it down. We went here for Sunday lunch after a weekend visiting family. When the food came the plates weren't warm so the food went...

Lovely old pub, huge fireplace and good home-cooked food. We visited one Saturday lunchtime and found a wide menu,good service, and a large pub but with a very cosy feel. Definitely to be recommended.

The owners are awful piece of work, very rude and they're always drunk. The lady owner was crying while pouring my glass of wine and also shouting at her staff when they asked if she was ok. The man owner and also chef I believe - was so rude to my husband and told him to move out of the way. Will not be returning ever again.

We recently visited here for Sunday lunch then again for an evening meal, staff were super friendly and efficient in particular the bubbly barmaid/waitress/receptionist.

The food here is great. A comprehensive menu and they even cater for pensioners with "half portions!" You sit beneath oak beams in a lovely olde worlde setting although there isa front terrace and a rear secluded garden. Sunday lunch is more than ample with a choiuce usually of beef, lamb or pork. There are other options on the menu. There are afternoon cream teas and it is all just delightful.

Stayed in the hotel and had supper. Staff were a bit sparse but efficient and friendly.

We arrived by chance after a bit of a mystery tour and were welcomed at a quiet time in the afternoon. Great location with great historic atmosphere, great service and great food, especially for my Vegan wife. Staff with a sense of humour was a bonus.

wish you had a rating for "OUTSTANDING" The experience was amazing. Helen an Eric were perfect hosts

We hadn't booked a table but from the moment we stepped through the door we received a fabulously friendly welcome from the staff. The place is very atmospheric and can trace its history back to 'The Smithies Arms' with beams, huge fireplaces (one redesigned as a wine store) wooden floors and Molly the dog. The venue is obviously dog friendly). The staff were so helpful and accomodating. The menu choices were varied and appetizing. My wife particularly enjoyed the Sea Bass. The portions were generous and the food was delightful and well presented together with a fine wine list and some excellent ale. Our waitress was so helpful, pleasant with just the right amount of attentiveness. All in all an exceptional evenings dining. I was troubled to read some of the less complimentary reviews as we could not fault this restaurant at all. Well done! Hope to return soon.

We went there for drinks last night and what a warm feeling. It feels like you are in your livingroom. The staff was ever so friendly, took pics of our group. I love the history: it was built in the 15th century! WOW

Elham is a beautiful village with historic buildings and an ancient church. Weeing the board advertising "Food served all day" we stopped outside Abbotts Fireside and looked at the menu outside which we expected to be expensive. Indeed there was a varied menu and prices were better than we expected. We were cheerily greeted by a young lady as she brought food out to customers in the front garden. We entered and she led us to a comfortable table immediately bringing menus and asking if we would like some water as we made our choice. Free bottle of water I should add, how thoughtful. My wife and chose our food and drinks and looked around this stunning ancient building. A small bar area and adequate and comfortable area for diners. The young lady invited me to see the back garden as well, she was very pleasant and we felt so welcome Our food was delicious and we were a bit piggy and had a lovely sweet as well. Molly the dog came over to say hello and laid by our table. Her collar said "Do not feed!" which we felt she might not completely approve of but we obeyed. This is a truly amazing place with such lovely ladies and we look forward to a drive out to Elham again very soon to to try more of this menu and take more time looking round the village. Perhaps I should add that the toilets were very clean indeed.

We ate an evening meal and breakfast, both of which were lovely, the staff were friendly and accommodating.

I brought my daughter down to our other doctors practice and after we had an hours to wait to we decided to pop in for some early lunch we were grated with a smile whilst waiting for our a dog came in plus another dog was sat outside I hadn't realised with it being a village this would be the case due to a bad experience my daughter got scared and started crying the manager came out and I can't thank her enough for how she dealt with the situation and my daughter she was so polite she wrapped our food in foil and helped us out avoiding the dogs she gave my daughter a big cuddle which made her feel so much better the food was lovely and I hope one day when kiera is better with dogs we can go bk.

My husband and I decided it would be a great idea to go and have food at this so called pub/restaurant I do not normally leave feedback like this but in this case people need to be aware what to expect before entering this appalling establishment

Arrived early and sat outside to enjoy a coffee. Had lunch inside but, there is also outdoor seating at the rear of the property which is quieter. Enjoyed a lovely Sunday lunch and was delighted to see wines from local vineyards on their wine list. Another great feature is that one can request smaller portions which are priced accordingly. Staff were excellent and I would be very happy to return again.

My husband and I have been here twice now. Both times we have had the crab roll. Its so fresh and very good. All the food we have seen looks good. The lady who I think owns this pub is lovely dso helpful and polite. Great value for money. Also they have rooms so you could stay if they are available. Great place go and try for yourself.

We were staying locally and decided to visit for a Sunday roast in the evening. The restaurant was full, so glad we had booked earlier in the day. The food was tasty and service very good. Will return again one day.

Lunchtime menu which was enjoyed by all, excellent quality and choice, with service to match.

Set in the delightful village square at Elham between Canterbury and Folkestone the Abbots Fireplace restaurant and hotel can trace its history back to 1451 when its was known as The Smiithy. It is even "rumoured" that the Duke of Richmond and Kind Charles might have been hidden in the historic building's vast chimney! Today, the Abbots Fireplace is a hotel and restaurant offering a very high standard of food and not to be missed is the Sunday menu with a choice of at least three roasts as well as vegetarian dishes. There are starters such as Kind Prawns in garlic to start and home made desserts and local ice cream for dessert. The large dining area is well appointed with space between tables so conversations are "not overheard! The food is of the highest standard and plenty of it.

Visited on a Saturday lunch time. Ordered the crab sandwich. Really nice. Service was excellent. Booked to come back. Great food, great staff, great history of the building.

Had dinner here the other Friday night while we were staying at the Inn. It was their inaugural Indian evening and whilst not all of our number had the various curry's, a large steak with all the trimmings was provided. With the very friendly and professional staff (and Molly the Lab) all sporting traditional dress, we all had a very pleasant evening, with very authentic food that was all thoroughly enjoyed; although we were a little surprised by the price per person. But that was our fault for not asking when we booked table.

Went to Indian night venue as always beautiful decorated Indian style staff also wearing traditional dress food exeptional cooked to perfection really lovely evening 🥂

When booking I enquired via email if they served gluten free dishes as my brother in law has celiac disease. I received a very prompt reply.

Great food and wines in a lovely ambiance of the historic pub. Very friendly and alert host who will make sure that you have a great evening out. Broad selection of wines.

We attended a wedding here .. perfect.. awesome attentive, friendly staff, fabulous food... the building itself is "quaint" and special ...

A really Fantastic evening with lovely food , entertainment and a fabulous atmosphere to welcome in the new year Thank you .

It was a welcome return to this restaurant. The food was excellent service was tentative. A very pleasant atmosphere. I would say a definite return in the near future.

Visited The Abbot's Fireside on a Sunday evening for dinner with family (5 Adults and 3 Children). Found everything to be first class from original booking enquiry up to and including the food and service. Had a mix of starters, mains, deserts and coffees as a group and we all enjoyed every course.

I visited the Abbot’s Fireside restaurant for a roast dinner with family. We were made to feel very welcome and were seated immediately. Our wine order was taken and the available beers were described. Decisions made and the drinks arrived promptly. Next we chose our main course. Three roast beef and one salmon. We had a little wait, but that was fine as we felt our meal was being properly prepared and served. We were not disappointed in any way. The beef and all its trimmings was delicious as was the salmon. We were more than happy. No room for dessert but we had what was described as the best coffee in Elham. I think they’re right - it is.

I have passed The Abbots Fireside on a number of occasions and always been enchanted by its outer appearance. I went with my wife for our wedding anniversary and was not disappointed, despite how much I had built up my expectations. The menu is small but very well thought out with local, seasonal meals. My wife and I shared a hot shellfish platter and the prawns and bread particularly were delicious. I had fish and chips by recommendation of the waiter, and it was a good size, beautifully cooked so it was all flakey and tender. My wife had a rump steak and it was well seasoned and VERY flavoursome.

Enjoyed a wonderfull and relaxing Sunday roast. The staff were very attentive and made the lunch even more memorable. Roast beef was a real hit on our table. Would definitely recommend.

The service and food was excellent. Simple but freshly cooked food - shortish menu but a good variety.

This restaurant has got a great atmosphere. The staff are so friendly and welcoming. I ended up relaxing over a meal soaking up the ambience.

Me and my partner visited here on Sunday 9th September and were surprised that we never came across the abbots before. Lovely old decor. Varied options to suit everyone's tastebuds. We had the hot shellfish to start and roast beef for mains. All cooked perfectly and well balanced flavours. Nice selection of local ales.

Lovely old building with great charm and warmth. Main problem is that they cannot cook!!!! Worth a visit but just have a drink - don't eat.

Went twice in a week. Lovely old pub with extremely friendly and generous staff. Menu had some unusual choices and I was well catered for as a coeliac. Large range of spirits including my favourite Hendricks and a lovely bottle of red wine was shared whilst we tucked in to delicious food. The Christmas menu looked amazing and what a place to spend Xmas day! If only we could we would!

We were very lucky to have booked a table here - food was delicious, excellent to eat and to look at. Portions were generous and the staff extremely friendly and efficient - the prepared a very early breakfast for us:)))

We called in here today whilst passing by in the car because we found it a lovely building to look at from the outside. It looked Tudor and inside it was charming. The lady there made us feel very welcome and we decided to stay for a coffee. Had it had been a bit later we might have had some food. We looked at the Menu and found it was lovely, fish, lamb, veggie option etc. We sat in the garden at the back of the pub with our coffee. It was a lovely summers day and there was another couple sat outside with their dog having tea and scones. A lovely,relaxed atmosphere. All Staff we came across very helpful.

We stayed here for one night before catching the eurotunnel. It is a lovely hotel with lots of character and interesting features.The room that we stayed in was very large and comfortable. It was also very well equipped

Lovely relaxed atmosphere, helpfully staff and good food. If I had a criticism it would be that the vegetarian burger option was a bit bland, it wouldn’t have taken much to elevate it to an outstanding burger. We will be back for another visit.

Had a really superb meal at this restaurant on the last night of a camping trip to Elham. They welcomed our retriever puppy with open arms and we felt very at ease sitting in the little courtyard garden.

A favourite stop for walkers & cyclists this is a lovely friendly place to stop for lunch. Fab roasts & other pub favourites but all exquisitely cooked & presented. Great nut roast as I sometimes go veggie. Love the hotel dog & cats too. There's a beautiful little almost secret garden at the back with umbrellas that feels really private, the restaurant s fabulously cool & you can hang out at the front too.

Thank you for a really fantastic evening. The food was great and the live music was fabulous. The Rat Pack music evening is obviously a very popular event with both local residents and visitors alike. The restaurant and bar was full of people enjoying the evening, well except for one grumpy person who tried their best to ruin the evening!

Rather sadly I decided to try this restaurant for a meal out with my partner on Friday 27th July 2018. After being seated, it took 20 minutes before we had someone come over to take our drinks order, and after the main order for food was taken we waited nearly an hour! After a mediocre meal I sat and listened to a member of the restaurants management yelling at a customer telling her to f*** off! It was absolutely revolting behaviour as I take it they were only complaining about the terrible service they had received, the lady she was shouting at was calm and polite and didn't deserve that.

Very nice historic building!! Excellent food!! Best value for money!!! Good location close to eurotunnel. Sure I’ll be back with my wife!!

We stopped here for a night on the way down from Warwickshire to Folkestone as we were booked on the following morning.

I visited today with my three year old daughter and neighbour and have to say I was bowled over by not only the stunning building and garden but by the food. The lady serving us was unbelievably polite and made the experience what it was. I’ll definitely be returning soon!

Only popped in for an afternoon drink, but it’s the first time we’ve been there and it’s a lovely pub.

What a place! Friendly staff,welcoming atmosphere and the best sandwiches we've eaten in ages. Locally sourced produce, including the lightest bread and tastiest sausages were served with well cooked chips and dressed salad. We will be back.

This is a lovely place. The restaurant is comfortable, warm and cosy and service is good. The beer-battered cod was a very tough crispy crust and the chips were slightly burnt. The honey glazed sausage rolls which we shared was very tasty and sweet.

It is a nice restaurant with a nice atmosphere. The food was quite reasonable, perhaps the chicken and chorizo didn’t quite go together in the pie and the chips in the fish and chips not quite so fresh, but overall ok if needing a bite in the area.

Great ambiance, good service and very nice food. Fish and chips and sticky toffee pudding for friends and deep fried halloumi with garlic mayonnaise and a green salad with pomegranate was excellent

We have the two course menu £14 per head. I had gammon, egg and chips, best I've ever had, the slices of meat were really thick. The presentation was good. Pudding pecan apple pie; very nice. Waitress was very helpful and the chef came out and asked whether we enjoyed our meal. The pub is very old and has lots of original features inside.

Stayed locally at Sibton Park and was looking for somewhere for dinner. Came across this restaurant after stopping in Elham to check out the Rose and Crown (they are opposite each other in the centre of the village). A lucky find indeed.