Chestfield Barn - Canterbury

We had a fantastic experience at this restaurant! The setting was absolutely beautiful, with a charmingly lit old barn. The staff were welcoming, professional, and friendly - we were even greeted with a glass of prosecco, making us feel like we were at a wedding reception. They were attentive throughout the afternoon, offering to take a photo of us by the Christmas tree. The music was just right, creating a wonderful atmosphere where we could hear each other speak but still enjoy the bustling activity of other families. While most of the courses were delicious, the main dinner was a bit disappointing. It lacked flavor and excitement, with minimal and tasteless vegetables, thin gravy, and meat that seemed processed. The roast potatoes and Yorkshire puddings were reminiscent of pre-made meals. We still enjoyed our experience overall and would return, but we hope that the owners will consider upgrading the dinner to match the rest of the day's excellence. Adding roasted vegetables, homemade roast potatoes, and flavorful turkey gravy would truly make the meal special.

We had not visited The Barn in nearly two years due to our previous disappointing experience with the food. However, we decided to give it another chance because of its historical significance and beautiful setting. Unfortunately, our recent visit did not improve our opinion. I ordered the Barn burger, which had gloppy, undercooked bacon and a untoasted bun, priced at £15. My partner ordered the Gluten Free Cottage Pie, which lacked finesse and was made up of a small portion of melted cheese, watery mince beef, and potato, priced at £15. We both found the food to be unappetizing and felt ill afterwards. The menu claims to have a chef who cooks fresh food daily, but this was not reflected in our meals. It seems that The Barn is in need of new management who prioritize the quality of their food and value repeat customers.

The cheese board was the highlight of the meal, with a good selection of cheese and a few grapes, although there were not enough biscuits. We were given small glasses of port with the cheese, which may have been a gesture to make up for the vegetable mishap, although it wasn't explained to us. The pub only serves Whitstable Bay and Masterbrew ales, and most of the customers were drinking lager, indicating a lack of demand for real ale. The pub does not participate in the free birthday meal scheme, which was disappointing as I am a member. Additionally, when I asked for an island malt at the end of the meal, I was told they only had Jameson or Bushmills. Despite these issues, we will still consider having dinner at the pub again, as the food (aside from the vegetables) was good.

We had the best Christmas Dinner ever.in the Barn all the food was well presented and cooked the staff were so helpful nothing to much trouble.if you are visitors or local don’t miss the Chestfield Barn.the atmosphere top notch the whole set up is second to none.its not the first time we have visited and it won’t be the last. The way that it was organised and presented was brilliant thank to Louise and all involved .please give Chestfield Barn a try you won’t be disappointed.

Another Christmas Day at The Barn. Another totally relaxing and unrushed day. Under unbelievable pressure, the staff working there were, as always, professional and personable. The ham, Stilton and fig starter was delicious and just right to get the appetite kick started. The drinks flowed and nothing was too much trouble. Most of us had the turkey Christmas dinner and two had the pork. Both were lovely, and if anything, even better than last year. We were there for around four hours or so and it gave us time as a family to have a few drinks, chill out and catch up with all the gossip. This is exactly what I, as the family cook, don’t get time for when I cook it at home. I won’t single anyone from the team out, as that’s not fair. Suffice for me to give them all a massive thank you for making the day so special again. I have heard that some found it took too long, but isn’t that the point of having a celebration dinner? After all, you can stick a Rustlers in the microwave if you want something fast; that’s ready in about a minute. Thanks again to all for a fantastic experience.