Posted: 31st May 2016
Pub of the Week: The Belle Vue Tavern, Ramsgate
The Belle Vue Tavern is a traditional British pub in Ramsgate, with stunning views from the terrace over Pegwell Bay, and out to sea.
The pub has a rich history – it is thought to date from around 1720 and, judging by tunnels connecting the inn with cottages across the road, was used by smugglers who stored their contraband in the pub’s cellars. Charles Dickens visited the pub with his family while on holiday in nearby Broadstairs, and in 1830 Princess Victoria visited and is said to have very much enjoyed the local shrimps prepared for her.
The pub has a welcoming, spacious bar, as well as an upstairs dining room with spectacular views, which is also available for private dining and group bookings.
Outside, the star attraction is the large, attractive garden and terrace overlooking the bay. Being south facing, it provides a pleasant suntrap on warmer days, ideal for relaxing with a drink and enjoying the sea air.
At the bar you will find a choice of quality cask ales, a good choice of wines from around the world, as well as all your usual soft drinks and other tipples. You are equally welcome to pop in for a coffee and a sandwich while you explore the area, and take advantage of the pub’s excellent position.
The menu offers a good selection of classic dishes, such as liver and bacon with herbed mash and onion gravy, handmade steak and stilton pie, and duck breast with orange sauce. There are also bar meals and snacks, with everything from sandwiches and jacket potatoes to ploughmans and fish and chips. During the summer, visitors can also enjoy barbecues on the terrace - the BBQ Shack is open at weekends, weather permitting (please call ahead to confirm).
The Belle Vue is situated not far from the centre of Ramsgate, with a cliff top path for those looking for a pleasant walk. Explore the various beaches and bays the area has to offer, visit the wartime tunnels, or enjoy a walk at the Sandwich and Pegwell bay Nature Reserve.
The pub also hosts live music every Sunday from 4pm, and Friday evenings through the summer.
For more information, visit the pub’s website, find them on Facebook, of give the team a call on 01843 593 991.