Pub of the Week: The Compasses, Crundale

The Compasses Inn at Crundale, near Canterbury is a beautiful example of a traditional, rural country pub.  Nestled in the Downs between Canterbury and Ashford, it is popular with walkers, locals and foodies – if you eat here once, you’ll definitely want to return.

Husband and wife team Rob & Donna Taylor describe the pub as a "muddy wellies and fine food kind of place", and their experience and passion for what they do is evident in both the quality of the food and drink, and the character of the pub.

Inside, the pub is just what you would expect from a 14th Century English pub, cosy and welcoming, with wooden bar, soft lighting and toasty log fire on colder days. Outside, there is a large garden for summer.

Situated in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the rural location provides access to high quality local meats from farms as little as ¼ of a mile away, and with fruit and veg home grown in the garden, you really can’t get produce fresher or more locally sourced. 

Rob is Head Chef, his expertise and pride in his work evident just from a scan of the menu. Start with dishes such as Venison Ragu with Mustard Clotted Cream and Garlic Crispbread, for the main course perhaps the Confit Lamb Shoulder with Hot Pot Potatoes, Carrots and Crab Apple Jelly, or Pan Fried Plaice with Wilted Greens and a Leek Cream Sauce.

There are also vegetarian options equally as tempting and exciting, plus desserts and cheese if you can save room. The lunch set menu offers exceptional value, with two courses for £14.95 or three for £17.95.