The Falstaff Inn
Canterbury, Kent, England.
One of Canterbury's most iconic old buildings, the Falstaff Inn must surely have provided shelter to countless thousands of pilgrims since its establishment in 1403.
That said, it hasn't always been known by its present name, and during the 16th and 17th centuries was called The White Hart. Largely remodelled during the 1700's to give the appearance it has today, the adjacent Tap public house and old mill were eventually converted into additional bedrooms in the late 20th century.
Alas, documentary evidence of any famous names from history having passed through its doors is surprisingly difficult to find; an inn such as this must surely have welcomed numerous notable figures during its existence. However, we can be fairly sure that the author of Moby Dick, Herman Melville, dined at the Falstaff Inn on November 5th 1849.
Also of historic significance is its location close to the city's Westgate. This impressive structure dates from around 1379 and is the only one of seven medieval gates to have surrounded Canterbury.
Today the Falstaff Hotel offers 46 guest bedrooms in total, with the Superior rooms likely to be of greatest interest to the history enthusiast. These are located in the original building, while the more contemporary Double and Queen rooms in the adjacent buildings. Accommodation is on a bed and breakfast basis, with a large number of excellent restaurants just a short walk away.
See the Historic Hotels in Kent index
That said, it hasn't always been known by its present name, and during the 16th and 17th centuries was called The White Hart. Largely remodelled during the 1700's to give the appearance it has today, the adjacent Tap public house and old mill were eventually converted into additional bedrooms in the late 20th century.
Alas, documentary evidence of any famous names from history having passed through its doors is surprisingly difficult to find; an inn such as this must surely have welcomed numerous notable figures during its existence. However, we can be fairly sure that the author of Moby Dick, Herman Melville, dined at the Falstaff Inn on November 5th 1849.
Also of historic significance is its location close to the city's Westgate. This impressive structure dates from around 1379 and is the only one of seven medieval gates to have surrounded Canterbury.
Today the Falstaff Hotel offers 46 guest bedrooms in total, with the Superior rooms likely to be of greatest interest to the history enthusiast. These are located in the original building, while the more contemporary Double and Queen rooms in the adjacent buildings. Accommodation is on a bed and breakfast basis, with a large number of excellent restaurants just a short walk away.
See the Historic Hotels in Kent index
Online Booking and Reviews for The Falstaff, Canterbury
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The Falstaff
8 - 12 St Dunstan's Street Canterbury Kent CT2 8AF Reviews and Booking. Please note that nightsinthepast.com plays no part in the actual review, booking or reservation process for this or any other accommodation. Costs for maintaining and developing Nights in the Past are met solely by it being the last referring site to our partners which results in a completed reservation. |
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