A pretty little village is frozen in time and features one of the UK’s best pubs. Bridge is a tiny village just two miles from the historic city of Canterbury.
With a population of around 1,500 people and covering just 1.58 square miles, Bridge may be a tiny village, but it packs a big punch.
Like many villages in Kent, it is surrounded by rolling hills and countryside that nestle around Bridge’s quaint buildings and shops.
According to Rightmove, the average price of a house in Bridge is around £498,000 with the majority of these properties being semi-detached homes.
The village has experienced a boost in the past year with sales up 12 percent from 2022.
As well as a booming housing market, Bridge is home to one of the UK’s best pubs. KentLive said it was home to The Bridge Arms gastropub which sits proudly as one of Kent’s few Michelin-starred venues.
It was originally taken over in 2021 by new owners Daniel and Natasha Smith who restored it to its former glory.
Originally a 16th-century inn, the Grade II listed building boasts with original fireplaces and an exterior bar for the summer months.
On the pub, the Michelin guide said: “In the charming village of Bridge, within the Nailbourne Valley, lies this Grade II listed 16C pub with low beams, open fires and plenty of character.”
They added: “The highly skilled cooking is available in a range of forms, from snacks like buttermilk fried chicken to dishes cooked over charcoal in the Josper oven, which feature on the seasonal à la carte.
“Prime seasonal produce like line-caught turbot is treated with exacting detail by the chefs, resulting in beautifully seasoned dishes. They have a period cottage nearby for those looking to stay the night.”
The pub has also been listed as one of the top 50 gastropubs in the UK in the Estrella Damm Top 50 Gastropubs list.
As well as winning praise from the critics, The Bridge Arms and the town of Bridge have also garnered a following on Trip Advisor.
Melissa S said: “We went to celebrate my 60th with a family consisting of 6 adults and 2 under 15. The staff were attentive and so helpful but didn’t intrude. The food was amazing, looked great on the plate, tasted sublime.
“It’s not cheap but the food is worth every penny if you want good food that looks and tastes great. Do not go there if you want pub grub as this is a food experience and food appreciation. Thank you for making my night!”
Fellow user Katemmins said: “Had an absolutely wonderful lunch here with our two small dogs. The team were welcoming and friendly, the service was very good and the decor was warm and tasteful.
“The food was so good, can’t recommend enough, the cep tart especially!”
