Reviews

Overall Total Score
3.7 out of 5
Very good | 103 reviews

What andrewmA357YB doesn't like about The Bell:
I received an unfriendly welcome when I was told that my muddy boots were not welcome, so I took them off. Despite the nice interior, I was informed that they did not serve any food. The staff appeared annoyed when I didn't have the right change, and when I was searching for the restroom, they did not offer any help. However, the selection of crisps was very good. I do not plan on returning to this restaurant. View all feedback. What sm326 likes about The Bell:
Walked from Canterbury to Dover (first leg of the Via Francigena) this week with my two sisters stopped at this pub in Shepherdswell. In fact stopped twice (at the end of our first day the beginning of our second day walking. Both times the bar staff, as well as the customers, couldn’t have been more welcoming friendly. It really was a pleasant break. Although they don’t serve food, if you phone ahead of time, then y... View all feedback.

Reviews from various websites

Gastroranking-it
2.4 ★ from 26 reviews
Tom
13.07.2024 - 17:16

The owner of the restaurant was not very friendly and insisted on charging us 50p for each bottle of water. This was on top of the £4.80 we had already spent on...

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andrewmA357YB
13.07.2024 - 17:16

I received an unfriendly welcome when I was told that my muddy boots were not welcome, so I took them off. Despite the nice interior, I was informed that they d...

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Nikki
13.07.2024 - 17:16

The owner of this restaurant is wonderful. She may seem strict, but she has a great sense of humor. She is excellent with both dogs and children. While they do...

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Justretiredgirl
13.07.2024 - 17:16

Unwelcoming, not a happy atmosphere, no food available, not even a basic ploughmans lunch. The landlady seemed not to care either way whether or not we all stay...

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Quagmires
13.07.2024 - 17:16

I first visited this pub in 2011 and returned in 2016 on a recent visit to the pretty village of Shepherdswell to find a new licensee has taken over. It used to...

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The Bell, once a beloved village pub, now presents a mixed bag of experiences under new management. While some patrons praised the warm welcome and friendly atmosphere, including attentive staff and quality food options, others recounted frustrating incidents with rude service and unfulfilled expectations. Reviews highlighted inconsistent beverage quality, off-putting environments, and poor service during busy times, leading many to seek alternatives nearby. Despite its potential, The Bell struggles to maintain a consistent experience worthy of its past reputation, leaving some locals longing for the charm it once had while others find solace in neighboring establishments.

Tripadvisor
4.1 ★ from 41 reviews
Bickley
13.03.2024 - 00:04

Walking St Martin's Way The beach at Dover to the Cathedral at Canterbury Well-deserved pints for 6 thirsty Pilgrims !! Ric the Rambler

Eastkent1
13.03.2024 - 00:04

Only called in for a drink. Nice pint of directors, pleasant atmosphere, friendly staff. Nothing else to add.

SunnySuZQ
13.03.2024 - 00:04

My sister and I visited this restaurant while hiking from Canterbury to Dover on the Via Francigena. The staff was welcoming, helpful (offered directions and st...

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colin
13.03.2024 - 00:04

Popped in whilst doing a 50km charity walk. Lovely location, friendly staff and customers. Lovely pint of beer (Directors). We needed this beer after a long, ti...

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sm326
13.03.2024 - 00:04

Walked from Canterbury to Dover (first leg of the Via Francigena) this week with my two sisters stopped at this pub in Shepherdswell. In fact stopped twice (at...

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Gastroranking-uk
3.5 ★ from 36 reviews

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