The Monument

The Monument is one of Canterbury's most historic pubs, sitting proudly at the crossroads of St Dunstan's Street, London Road and Whitstable Road for over 400 years. Established as a pub in 1803, it has long been part of the city's story, marking the point where travellers arriving from London would finally reach Canterbury, with the Westgate and city walls just ahead. The name itself comes from a wooden crucifix that once stood outside, welcoming pilgrims at the end of their journey. Dogs are welcome inside and out, so nobody needs to do the pavement-waiting shuffle.

Inside, it keeps that proper, characterful pub feel, while outside opens up into one of Canterbury's biggest beer gardens, filled with plants, colour and plenty of space to settle in when the sun's out. As a freehouse, the drinks selection is carefully chosen, with a strong mix of quality beers and other options at sensible prices. Food is served daily too, with sourdough pizzas, seasonal specials and Sunday roasts keeping things varied without losing that pub-at-heart feel.

It's the kind of place that works year-round, equally good for a cosy drink or a long, lazy afternoon outdoors, with dogs able to join you while you grab a table and ideally claim a sunny spot in the garden as their own.