insideKENT Magazine insideKENTRestaurantGuide2018 | Page 17

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 five years and clearly have a true passion for what they do, which 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 of course 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 selected 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 bicycle, 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 £16.95, or three courses £19.95), The Compasses Inn is perfect for casual weekday dining and special weekends alike. Winner of The Good Food Guide’s local restaurant of the year 2017; Michelin recommended 2018; Hardens recommended 2018; The Great British Pub Awards ‘Best Food Pub in the UK’ and ‘Top 50 Gastropubs in the UK’ for the second year running. Sole Street, Crundale, Canterbury, CT4 7ES 01227 700300 www.thecompassescrundale.co.uk compasses_inn compassescrundale 17