The Drapers Arms

The Drapers Arms in Canterbury is a two-storey bar and restaurant near the Cathedral that works just as well for morning coffee as it does for cocktails, craft beer or a full meal later in the day. Dogs are welcome inside, so nobody needs to do the pavement shuffle while someone else grabs a drink.

Inside, it has that modern-but-relaxed feel, light and spacious, with a mix of seating and a balcony space upstairs. The food leans away from standard pub fare, with global, street-food-inspired dishes alongside brunch and sharing plates, giving it that "let's try something new" energy without being over the top. It shifts with the day, calmer earlier on, then picking up a bit of buzz as the evening rolls in.

It's a solid choice whether you're stopping briefly or planning to stay a while, and dogs can settle in while you eat or drink, making it easy when you don't want to leave anyone behind.