The Phoenix, Canterbury

A traditional back-street pub laid out as described by others, below. It was a welcoming local with a good atmosphere, good-natured banter from a decent bunch of locals, and it was a comfortable place to be. There was a small pub cat who was totally unfazed by our dogs, the latter of whom were offered water and treats. Live rugby was on the TV. Ales on were Canterbury Ales’s Kentish Best and Tribute, plus Ark Pilsener. Overall an enjoyable visit and somewhere I’d happily include in a crawl.

Old boozer on the south side of the city, close to Kent's county cricket ground. Despite the number of cars on the car park to the rear, we were surprised to see the pub completely empty apart from the pub's landlord and his soon to appear wife. There are six handpulls on the bar, with 4 of them clipped on our visit. Ales were Tonbridge American Pale & Golden Rule & Gadd's Seasider & DogBolter. Despite it being so quiet, we enjoyed a good chat with the landlord. He was as grumpy as sin, but in a funny way rather similar to Victor Meldrew. His knowledge about pubs, beers, spirits, places and life in general was second to none and we enjoyed an excellent 45 minutes or so in his company until another punter finally walked in and sat down at the bar. I really warmed to this traditional pub and would happily visit again next time I'm in Canterbury. In fact, I don't recall visiting anything better in Canterbury (yet).

Old-fashioned pub on the cricket ground side of town, well away from tourist central. Wedge-shaped building, although the partially opened-out two-part bar is largely rectangular (with the hint of a taper at the counter end). The main seating area is separated from a small lounge by a former fireplace now housing a wood-burner. Mix of furniture and traditional decor, with just about enough room for the advertised live music. Six of eight handpumps in operation, with Musket Fife & Drum and a seasonal selection from other Kent breweries - Rocking Robin Jingle Bell Rock, Wantsum Figgy Pudding, Whitstable Christmas Spirit and Hopfuzz Advent (£3.80) - plus Sprinhead Surrender. Worth the walk if you have a little time.