Business Details
The Phoenix - Real Ale & Live Music in Canterbury
Established in 1874, The Phoenix has been a cornerstone of Canterbury's hospitality scene for over 150 years. Originally named the Bridge House Tavern, the pub was rebuilt and renamed after a devastating fire in 1968. Under the stewardship of current licensees Bob and Nilla Griffiths, the pub continues its legacy of serving premium real ales, offering hearty meals, and hosting live music events. With a rich heritage rooted in Kent's brewing traditions, The Phoenix maintains eight real ales on tap, including a traditional mild, while hosting four annual beer festivals celebrating local Kentish breweries.The pub's commitment to quality extends to its food offerings, featuring daily menus, themed evenings, and traditional Sunday roasts served in a welcoming environment that combines historic charm with modern amenities. Our team brings decades of hospitality experience, with Bob's family background in the pub trade and Nilla's entrepreneurial expertise in personal services. The Phoenix remains a beloved gathering place for locals, cricket enthusiasts, and visitors seeking authentic Kentish hospitality.
Services
Real Ales
Good Food
Live Music
Beer Festivals
Quiz Nights
Outdoor Seating
Highlights and features
- We offer a wide range of real ales and host four annual beer festivals
- Our pub features live music weekly and themed evenings
- Enjoy traditional Sunday roasts and a spacious beer garden
- Owned by experienced licensees with a heritage in hospitality
- Conveniently located near Canterbury city centre and the cricket ground
Services
Real Ales
As a Free House, we serve eight premium real ales including a traditional mild. Our selection changes regularly with featured brews from Kentish breweries. We host four annual beer festivals celebrating regional brewing excellence, including our popular Christmas Ale Festival and Wicked Brew Beer and Music Fest.
Live Music
Weekly live music performances feature local and regional artists across multiple genres. Our annual Canstock music festival and War of the Roses Beer Festival combine great music with exceptional ales. Performances typically run from 8:30pm until late, creating a vibrant atmosphere for music lovers.
Traditional Food
Our menu features classic British dishes with daily specials and themed evenings. Sunday roasts with beef, lamb, or chicken are served between 2-6pm at 12.95. We offer both indoor and outdoor dining options with a selection of snacks available during quiz nights and festivals.
Beer Festivals
Four times annually, we transform into a hub for beer enthusiasts with special festivals. These include the Christmas Ale Festival, Wicked Brew Beer and Music Fest, War of the Roses Beer Festival, and Canstock music festival. Each event showcases unique brews from local Kent breweries alongside live entertainment.
Quiz Nights
Weekly quiz nights every Wednesday starting at 8:30pm offer 2 entry with three chances to win. The event includes half-time snacks and features a rollover prize when no winner is declared. These social gatherings attract regular participants and provide entertainment alongside our regular pub offerings.
People
Bob Griffiths
Licensee
Bob comes from a family with generations in the pub trade. He learned cellar skills from his stepfather, a former dray man with 25 years' experience. After a career in medical sales, he now focuses on running The Phoenix with his wife Nilla.
Nilla Griffiths
Licensee
Nilla previously ran two hairdressing salons before transitioning to pub management. With her husband Bob, she brings entrepreneurial experience and customer service expertise to The Phoenix, having previously managed the Rose & Crown in St. Dunstans for three years.
Questions
What are The Phoenix's opening hours?
We're open daily from noon to 11pm, with last orders at midnight and closing at 1am.
What food options are available?
We serve traditional British meals daily including Sunday roasts at £12.95, with special themed evenings and a varied menu.
When does live music happen?
Live music occurs weekly from 8:30pm, with special performances during our beer festivals and Canstock event.
How can I book a table?
Table bookings are available through our website link for lunch, dinner, and special events.
What beer festivals do you host?
We host four annual festivals: Christmas Ale, Wicked Brew, War of the Roses, and Canstock music festival.
