Bramley's Cocktail Bar & Bistro

While the city of Canterbury may not have a brilliant selection of nightclubs (you'll have to jump on the train to London for that) it certainly has its fair share of independent bars and restaurants. From the ever popular Cherry Tree to the charming Marlowe's restaurant, there is always plenty of choice for somewhere to eat and drink.

Having been to most of what Canterbury has to offer socially wise, I was interested to visit an establishment I hadn't heard of before: Bramley's Cocktail Bar & Bistro.

Tucked away among the back streets of Canterbury, this place is easy to miss. Particularly as it's located next to a well-known bar, so your attention can be somewhat distracted. From the street, all there is to see is a small doorway. No loud, garish posters. No bouncers. No annoying lighting. But its simplicity is part of its intrigue.

On entering, the size of the bar comes as a pleasant surprise. Larger than you'd think, its layout gives a feeling of space. A corridor leads you down into a mysterious treasure trove, filled with nineteenth century adornment. Low lighting and a cushioned ceiling with sweeping curtains create a mellow and intimate mood, while a fascinating array of ornaments are an enchanting touch.

As soon as I arrived I couldn't stop myself from looking around. Bramley's is covered with antiques ranging from beautiful writing desks to Singer sewing machines, ornate candle holders, unusual lamps, plush velvet seating, quirky road signs; I could go on. It is an Aladdin's cave.

While there is a definite nineteenth century feel, many features point towards the 1920s. Enhanced by a wonderful grand piano, customers are treated to Jazz and Blues on Wednesday evenings. For those who don't wish to just sit and drink, a pool table and board games are provided, as well as a small smoking area at the back.

Though drink prices are not particularly kind to the student pocket, this is not your typical Wetherspoon's; there are 2-4-1 deals available on cocktails. That's another thing, which for me at least, adds to its appeal: you won't find any pretension or disorderly drunkenness in here. Instead, the atmosphere is one of simply style and enjoyment.

Friendly staff also ensure you feel welcomed into what feels like a secret that not many have been let in on.
Bramley's is a decadent and rare bar which harks back to a different era, allowing you to forget about the worries and stresses of real life, it transports you into an unusual world. Open six days a week, it's definitely worth a look.

Bramley's Bar

15 Orange Street,
Canterbury

01227 379933

Open Mon - Thurs: Noon to 11.00pm
Fri & Sat: Noon to Midnight