The Millers Arms, Canterbury

The Millers Arms is a corner Shepherd Neame pub by a bridge over the Stour, so there were lots of tourists ambling by during my recent visit early on a sunny Friday afternoon. Through the entrance is a wooden floored L-shaped bar with a central L-shaped serving counter with duplicated draught options up each side, which included six standard keg possibilities, including SN Iron Wharf Stout, as well as three hand pumps that were drawing Whitstable Bay, Master Brew and Creekside. Across the front window to the right of the entrance is a beer shelf with stools and in the bland right-hand side of the pub is a zig-zag walkway that passes small seating areas. To the left of the entrance, and the bar, is a step down to a highly polished flag stone area with wooden furniture and an exposed brick fireplace on the rear wall. There are views of the passers-by out of the windows, but again the interior décor is a bit sterile. The barmaid was polite, and I suppose this is an ok place to stop off for a pint if passing, but I wouldn’t go out of my way to revisit.

As described below, this Shepherd Neame town pub is pleasant and has a welcoming atmosphere. The young staff were enthusiastic and helpful, but it still felt a little bit corporate. The dogs were offered treats and water before we were served, and the other customers were reasonably civilised. Only one ale on the three pumps, Shepherd Neame Maverick, a new one on me which was 3.4abv and tasted a little insipid. A decent enough pub but let down by the ale choice.

Attractive Shepherd Neame pub just opposite the preserved remains of the former Abbots Mill and the gardens beside the Stour. Inside, the bar is housed in the older corner part of the building, with several dining areas (and accommodation above) in the newer part. Also has a small patio beer garden at the back. With duplicated clips on the bank of three handpumps on each side of the 'L'-shaped counter, I found Master Brew, Whitstable Bay Pale and the seasonal Christmas Ale (£4.30) available on this visit.