Food In Canterbury Cathedral

Food History of Canterbury Cathedral, Canterbury, United Kingdom

The food history of Canterbury, a city with roots steeped in pilgrimage and religious history, is a fascinating mix of traditional English fare and ecclesiastical sustenance. Canterbury Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the mother church of the worldwide Anglican Communion, has, through the centuries, seen its fair share of feasts and fasting. During Medieval times, the monks residing at the Cathedral would have dined on simple and modest meals, likely growing their own herbs and vegetables within the Cathedral precincts, in keeping with their vows of poverty.

On grander occasions, such as religious festivals or visits from royalty, the meals would have been more elaborate. Food served would have avoided meats forbidden by the church, focusing instead on fish, vegetables, and bread. With the influence of different Archbishops and the proximity to the Continent, culinary practices from France and other European countries would have made their way into the kitchens of the Cathedral, adding to the diversity of food traditions within the city of Canterbury.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Canterbury Cathedral, Canterbury, United Kingdom

• Fish and Chips - A classic British dish featuring deep-fried fish with a side of chips (fried potatoes). (Pescatarian)
• Cream Tea - A light afternoon snack consisting of scones served with clotted cream and jam accompanied by a pot of tea. (Vegetarian)
• Bubble and Squeak - A traditional English dish made from leftover vegetables and potatoes, fried together until crispy. (Vegetarian)
• Kentish Huffkin - A soft, round bread roll with a distinctive thumbprint in the middle that is filled with cream and berries or savory fillings. (Vegetarian)
• Vegetarian Shepherd's Pie - A variation on the classic Shepherd’s Pie where lentils or vegetables are used in place of meat. (Vegetarian)
• Summer Pudding - A dessert made with bread and an assortment of seasonal berries. (Vegetarian)
• Apple and Rhubarb Crumble - A dessert featuring tart fruits topped with a crumbly, buttery topping, typically served with custard or ice cream. (Vegetarian)
• Pear and Stilton Tart - Pears and Stilton cheese combined in a tart, showcasing local cheese produce. (Vegetarian)
• Pea and Ham Soup - A comforting soup made with peas and ham, though vegetarian versions can substitute the ham for smoked flavorings. (Pescatarian/Vegetarian option)
• Leek and Potato Soup - A creamy soup that highlights the flavors of leeks and potatoes; a vegetarian favorite in the UK. (Vegetarian)

Top Famous Restaurants in Canterbury Cathedral, Canterbury, United Kingdom

1. Deeson's British Restaurant
   25-27 Sun Street, Canterbury CT1 2HX
   Famous for: Traditional British Cuisine
   Food Type: Pescatarian/Vegetarian options available
2. The Goods Shed
   Station Road West, Canterbury CT2 8AN
   Famous for: Seasonal Local Produce, Sunday Roasts
   Food Type: Vegetarian options available
3. Tiny Tim's Tearoom
   34 St. Margaret's Street, Canterbury CT1 2TG
   Famous for: Afternoon Tea, Scones with Clotted Cream and Jam
   Food Type: Vegetarian
4. Posillipo
   16 The Borough, Canterbury CT1 2DR
   Famous for: Authentic Italian Cuisine, Wood Fired Pizza
   Food Type: Pescatarian/Vegetarian options available
5. The Ambrette Canterbury
   14-15 Beer Cart Lane, Canterbury CT1 2NY
   Famous for: Contemporary Indian Cuisine
   Food Type: Vegetarian options available
6. Kitch
   4 St Peter's Street, Canterbury CT1 2AT
   Famous for: Cafe Style, Health-Conscious Eats
   Food Type: Vegetarian options available
7. Oscar & Bentleys
   10 Guildhall Street, Canterbury CT1 2JQ
   Famous for: Gluten-Free Dining, Bistro Fare
   Food Type: Pescatarian/Vegetarian options available
8. Cafe des Amis
   95 St Dunstan's Street, Canterbury CT2 8AD
   Famous for: Mexican and Mediterranean Fusion
   Food Type: Pescatarian/Vegetarian options available
9. Café St Pierre
   41 St. Peter's Street, Canterbury CT1 2BG
   Famous for: French Café Classics
   Food Type: Vegetarian options available
10. The Veg Box Café
    17B Burgate, Canterbury CT1 2HG
    Famous for: Vegetarian and Vegan Dishes, Homemade Cakes
    Food Type: Vegetarian/Vegan