Old Neptune — Restaurant in Canterbury

I was at The Old Neptune this week and decided to share my experience. It is one of those rare pubs that is actually on the beach. It is not big and modern with all the bells and whistles of a new pub. It is old and small with wooden floors that are uneven and the place is a bit wonky (in a good way). That being said, it is a lovely and genuine place, nothing pretentious and not trying to be something it is not. A warm day and the place is busy, with crowds of people filling the outdoor seating area and enjoying the spectacular views. The place is lively and has a real buzz when the sun is out. On another day, it is not so nice out, and everyone is inside filling the place with chatter and laughter. I have eaten here previously, but not this time as the lure of the chippy shop chips on the beach was too great, but i did spend a few hours savouring a few pints and reading a book outside. They have a pretty good menu and on my trips in and out of the bar, saw a few people eating with great enthusiasm. Remember, it is an old pub on the beach, not a high-end restaurant, so the menu is workable and appropriate, with fish and seafood a feature. There is a selection of beers and lagers (some local, of course), and all in all, a good choice of wine, spirits, snacks, and nibbles. I found the staff friendly and chatty, with a good sense of humour. So it is small, it can get really busy, the floors are uneven and you may have to queue for the loo, but it is a warm and comforting place, with the most amazing views. It is a place where I always spend more time that I plan to (it's too easy to get caught up in the atmosphere or the views) and feel welcome...

Nice looking old pub right on the sea front, nice local beer, nice location. We walked through the harbour, past all the other great looking food places to get to the Old Neptune pub. We were early so we waited patiently for it to open and serve lunch. What a huge disappointment we had coming, the food was terrible: The tiniest fillet of cod I've ever seen. The average mackerel fillet is bigger. It was mainly batter with a skinny sliver of fish inside. I didn't know cod fillets came that thin. The Fishbox was likened to cheap catering freezer style food. A massive disappointment for two of our group as soon as they opened their boxes. The Scampi was inedible. Hardly any scampi there in the thick oily batter, and what was there was watery mush. All this served in take-away boxes with plastic knives and forks, with the mushy peas in little plastic tubs, and the pub isn't exactly charging take-away food prices!! Menus poorly presented, a plain looking A4 sheet within old scruffy laminated plastic. Specials List presented the same way. But obviously not so "special" if it looks like it hasn't changed in years. The only person in our group who had a decent meal was a vegetarian, who liked the veggie tart. The rest of us were left utterly disappointed and wished we'd stopped at the other places we'd walk past on the way to the Old Neptune pub. It really put a downer on the rest of our visit to Whitstable. I've had better quality food served to me from car trailers in B&Q or Homebase car parks. The only plus: the location and Whitstable Bay beer was served. Sorry, that's our...

The Old Neptune in Whitstable is nothing short of a seaside gem. Nestled right on the beach, its location offers one of the most spectacular sea views you could hope for. Whether you're basking in the glow of a summer sunset or enjoying the refreshing coastal air on a crisp winter day, the pub's picturesque setting is truly unmatched.

Inside, the atmosphere is wonderfully lively and welcoming, with a charming rustic decor that speaks to its history and seaside character. It’s always buzzing with energy, and while it’s often packed, that only adds to the vibrant and friendly vibe. The staff are quick, attentive, and keep things moving efficiently even when the place is busy.

The drinks menu is extensive, catering to all tastes. From well-pulled pints of local ales to a wide array of spirits, ciders, and wines, there’s something for everyone.

This pub is more than just a place for a drink; it’s a community hub and a slice of coastal paradise. Whether you’re a Whitstable local or just visiting, the Old Neptune promises a memorable experience with its unbeatable combination of charm, atmosphere, and stunning views.

Highly...