insideKENT Magazine insideKENT Restaurant Guide 2017 | Page 19

THE COMPASSES INN

Hidden above the downs between Canterbury and Ashford , down narrow winding roads through an area of outstanding beauty , tucked away in the village of Crundale , you ’ ll find the award-winning Compasses Inn .
Husband and wife team Robert and Donna Taylor have been at the Compasses now for four years , and clearly have a true passion for what they do and this reflects in the appearance of the pub itself and the care and attention to every detail inside .
The couple has a wealth of knowledge between them having worked in some of the best restaurants and hotels in London and Australia .
Robert says he feels lucky to own such a gorgeous pub in a beautiful part of the county : “ We are surrounded by game estates , rivers for fishing , farmlands with local producers and not to forget the stunning Kent coastline ,” he enthuses . With meat coming from as little as a quarter of a mile down the road , and vegetables , herbs and fruit used from their very own garden , they really have grasped the concept of fresh local produce which is very often used too freely these days .
Unlike many , it ’ s still a pub with roaring log fires , hop garlands and expertly well-kept real ales from local brewer Shepherd Neame . However it ’ s the food offering at the Compasses Inn that is getting this pub noticed . With a cosy relaxed vibe and a menu that is all about seasonality and creativity , all delivered in an unfussy manner .
Whilst visiting the Compasses , take the opportunity to explore the local area which has some of the top-ranked walks in the country . Park your car , set off on foot or cycle , and return for a well-earned drink and something to eat . Booking is always advisable .
With a regularly changing à la carte menu and daily changing set price lunch menu ( two courses £ 14.95 or three courses £ 17.95 ), the Compasses Inn is perfect for casual weekday dinning and special weekends alike .
• Winner of THE GOOD FOOD GUIDE ’ S local restaurant of the year 2017
• MICHELLIN recommended 2017
• HARDENS recommended 2017
• THE GREAT BRITISH PUB AWARDS top 3 gastro pubs in the UK 2017
The Compasses Inn , Sole Street , Canterbury , CT4 7ES
01227 700300 compassesinncrundale @ gmail . com www . thecompassescrundale . co . uk compasses _ inn
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