The Corner House

Overlooking Canterbury's city walls, The Corner House is a venue that's rich in history, with tales of secret passages leading to the cathedral and famous guests who've enjoyed its hospitality over the years. Originally known as the Three Musketeers, the building dates to 1574 and gained its first public license in 1682 and it's been serving Kentish ales ever since. However, more recently it's undergone a bit of a makeover, with chef-patron Matt Sworder adding an excellent, Modern British menu to its offering, as well as five spacious en-suite guest rooms for those who want to stay over and enjoy this unique city for a little bit longer.

You couldn't be more comfortable than you are at this ancient yet contemporary inn, which strikes a perfect balance between the building's architectural legacy and the contemporary amenities we've all come to expect from an overnight stay. Accents of bold wallpaper, muted wall colours and wooden furnishings blend in perfectly with the historic, eccentric structure, whose original beams, uneven walls, sloping floors and arched ceilings are part of its charm.

Each of the five spacious en-suite guest rooms has a distinct individuality: the Attic room, a favourite for a romantic getaway, features a roll-top bath and floor lighting; Tourtel is named after Rupert the Bear’s creator, who lived in Canterbury, and is decorated with her pictures of the famous animal. The latter is situated at the front of the building, along with the most spacious room, Dickens, which boasts two bay windows and a seating area. At the back – and therefore a little quieter – are Chaucer, with exposed brickwork and beams giving a thoroughly medieval feel, and Beckett, which is part of a modern extension and altogether different, with floor-to-ceiling windows that overlook the Corner House's beautifully designed gardens. Every guest receives a continental breakfast with granola, fruit and pastries delivered to their door each morning. If you like a bath, ask for the Attic or Tourtel. Finally, each room has air-conditioning, a cute Bluetooth Roberts radio, a pint-sized fridge complete with fresh milk and remarkably reliable WiFi considering the medieval setting. You can also purchase a 24-hour car park voucher – very useful in a city where parking can be a nightmare.

What about the food? Well, the restaurant makes its own pasta, bread, ketchup and ice cream, and Matt Sworder and his team are regularly seen touring local producers in search of fine regional ingredients, with predictably delicious results. The restaurant offers all-day dining from noon to 9pm, meaning whatever time you arrive, the atmosphere is always lively and cheerful. Not only that, diners don’t have to worry about being rushed out and can take time to enjoy their meal. The sharing boards for two are a favourite, and the slow-cooked lamb shoulder has a massive following, while summer sees the garden come into its own – an opportunity to sup an al fresco pint of locally brewed beer or cider or a cocktail mixed with Kent liquors. It all adds up to a vibrant restaurant with rooms that's run with passion and attention to every detail. As they modestly say themselves, ‘The Corner House gives you everything you want, plus extra,’ and we would have to agree!