Guest 651- Registered: 12 Mar 2008
- Posts: 5,673
23 February 2011
20:2993931Trying to plan a family meal for somewhere in east kent next month but need to find somewhere toddler friendly perhaps with a kids play area. Being someone without kids I try to avoid places likely to have them!! Does anyone have any ideas ?
Been nice knowing you :)
23 February 2011
20:3793932Paul,
Try the Fordwich Arms,pretty good there for families, and if the kids get out of hand, well the river Stour runs right on by If you get my meaning???
Guest 698- Registered: 28 May 2010
- Posts: 8,664
23 February 2011
20:3793933Bit of an open question. How many people, what's the budget per head, lunch or dinner, max distance from Dover?
I'm an optimist. But I'm an optimist who takes my raincoat - Harold Wilson
Guest 651- Registered: 12 Mar 2008
- Posts: 5,673
23 February 2011
20:4793934Prob about 10 people for pub lunch, anything this side of Canterbury. I just know how annoying screaming kids are so something to keep them occupied is good :)
Been nice knowing you :)
Guest 645- Registered: 12 Mar 2008
- Posts: 4,463
23 February 2011
20:5793935Has the Jackdaw re-opened? That was always a nice enviroment.
Marek
I think therefore I am (not a Tory supporter)
howard mcsweeney1- Location: Dover
- Registered: 12 Mar 2008
- Posts: 62,352
23 February 2011
21:3693938fordwich and jackdaw!!
can we have locations please?
Guest 645- Registered: 12 Mar 2008
- Posts: 4,463
23 February 2011
21:4093939Jackdaw is on the back road to Barham
Marek
I think therefore I am (not a Tory supporter)
Guest 645- Registered: 12 Mar 2008
- Posts: 4,463
23 February 2011
21:4693942Found this review
.The Jackdaw Inn is located in the picturesque village of Denton which is about a 10 minute drive from Folkestone, Dover and Canterbury.
The Jackdaw was the 'on location' site for filming a part of the 'Battle of Britain' film. The famous air battle was actually fought in the skies over this pub!
The Jackdaw
Inside, the pub is very traditional and has exposed oak beams running along the ceilings inside. The walls are decorated with information about the history of the pub which all makes for very interesting reading. I love the fact that The Jackdaw is meant to be a traditional village pub and it manages to do this as the décor inside is traditional and very welcoming.
There is a large bar which serves a selection of soft drinks, as well as alcoholic drinks such as spirits, wines and beer. There is also a range of Draught beer available. Hot drinks such as tea, coffee and hot chocolate are also served at the bar.
As you walk in the pub, there is a seating area on the left hand side which consists of wooden tables and chairs. There is a large open fire place and to the front of this, there are two 3 seater leather sofas and an armchair which makes a great setting if you are having a chilled drink or two!!
Behind this area, is the main restaurant which is large, enough to accommodate approximately 200 people. The tables vary in size from 2 seaters to larger tables that can seat around 8 people. There is also a garden area with tables and chairs which makes a lovely setting in the summer. The garden is also now kitted out with heaters for any smokers who visit the premises.
The Food
The food is the main reason to visit The Jackdaw. Put simply, the food is delicious! The Jackdaw has an extensive menu for visitors to chose from and there is also a specials board which changes on a weekly basis. My girlfriend is vegetarian and this in one of the few places where we can visit where she can chose something different every time.
Another thing that has to be said about the menu is that it is quite unusual. For example, they serve dishes such as goat, boar and ostrich to name a few. Every time we visit, there is a new unusual dish on the menu.
You can chose from starters, main meals, snacks and deserts. Be warned though, the portions are HUGE!! We often find it hard to eat a starter and a main meal and we have never had room for dessert after doing so.
All the meal are cooked fresh as you order them and this is reflected in the taste of the food.
When the food is brought out, it is always well presented and the staff are happy to leave out any ingredients that you are not very keen on.
Starters range from £3 - £7, Main meals range from £7 - £16 and deserts are around £4 - £6.
The Service
All the staff at The Jackdaw are very friendly and always willing to help. They are polite and very speedy when looking to take your order. Once you have ordered, it normally takes about 15 minutes for your starter to arrive, and then a further 10 minutes for your main meal to arrive. I would highly recommend The Jackdaw to anyone who enjoys their food. The pub/restaurant itself makes for a lovely traditional setting and the food really tops it off.
The Jackdaw provides exceptional value for money
Marek
I think therefore I am (not a Tory supporter)
23 February 2011
23:4593964The \Fordwich Arms is on the A28 Canterbury/Margate road. You have to leave Canterbury on the A28 and travel about 3 miles to a Village called Sturry. When you get to Sturry you will see a Public house called the Welsh harp. Turn right there and you will end up in the village of Fordwich. The Fordwich arms is near thw church and next to Englands smallest working town hall.
At a rough guess 20 miles??
The town hall has its own ducking stool if any one has a need for such a thing???
Guest 698- Registered: 28 May 2010
- Posts: 8,664
24 February 2011
01:0293965That review of the Jackdaw was surely not written by a bona fide customer? It looks more like an advertorial as published in the local paper a few months ago.
I'm an optimist. But I'm an optimist who takes my raincoat - Harold Wilson
Guest 645- Registered: 12 Mar 2008
- Posts: 4,463
24 February 2011
03:2093968The reviews all appear to be from people from all walks of life,ages,sex couples,singles ,British and foriegn. It could have course be a big con but it looked pretty genuine. I edited the review from first person and corrected some spelling mistakes but hey who knows whats genuine or not on the web........you pays your money and take your choices...
Marek
I think therefore I am (not a Tory supporter)
Guest 645- Registered: 12 Mar 2008
- Posts: 4,463
24 February 2011
03:3193969These reviews are from the same site and indicates what tourists think of Dover etc
Dover Castle
Advantages: Advantages: fascinating historical site with spectacular views.
Disadvantages: Disadvantages: no audio available and a lot of climbing inside and out.
...From the late June to middle August I spent 7 weeks in China, so I missed the beautiful summer in the UK this year. It?s a great pity. Luckily the August bank holiday came shortly after I returned and the weather at the last day (30 August 2010) was gorgeous so I took a day trip to Dover Castle. Brief introduction about Dover Castle: Dover Castle is located in Dover, Kent. As the key to England Dover has always been in a strategic position to protecting Britain from potential invaders throughout its history. Commanding the shortest sea crossing between England and the continent, these fortifications on the very site of Dover Castle have played an important military role for over 2000 years. Going back to the 12th century Henry II built the present castle, and over the next 800 years, particularly during the second world war, it...
happysh2009 09.09.2010 · Read review
Ciao members have rated this review on average very helpful
Review of Dover Castle, Dover
Dover Museum
Advantages: free entrance for locals, nice Bronze Age Boat on display
Disadvantages: None
...Location Dover Museum is centrally located in the market square area of Dover town and is within walking distance to the train and bus stations. Prices Admission is free to local residents, although you do need to prove that you live in Dover by showing a document such as a bank statement or utility bill. Adults who do not reside in Dover will be charged two pound fifty and children are OAPs are charged one pound fifty. The Museum Dover Museum was first opened in 1836. The museum is spread across three floors. Just inside the entrance, is the history exhibit which traces the history of Dover from the Stone Age to the time of the Saxons. Here you can view the Bronze Age boat which is believed to be the worlds oldest known sea going boat. Here you can also view the array of Saxon jewellery, which is kindly borrowed from...
Jamie73 11.02.2008 · Read review
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Review of Dover Museum, Dover
.Stunning Samphire
Advantages: Nice views, relaxing day out, events to take part in
Disadvantages: Would be better is parking was free
.... The whole walk takes about an hour to complete. Along the way you can walk along the main wall and meet the fisherman and see what they have caught that day which is always interesting and in my experience they have always been friendly and happy to stop for a chat. From Samphire Hoe, you can get beautiful views of the famous White Cliffs of Dover and the Kent Downs which are both classed as an area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. At the far end of Samphire Hoe, there is a small beach and although it is a pebble beach, it is still a nice area to sit in and relax. Facilities Near the car park there is a refreshment kiosk where you can get food and drink items such as sandwiches, rolls, ice creams and snacks such as crisps and chocolate. They also serve a selection of hot and cold drinks. Around the back of the cafe are the toilet...
JezWalker 12.01.2011 · Read review
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Review of Samphire Hoe, Dover, Kent, England
Dover Leisure Centre
Advantages: You don't need to be a member to use the facilities
Disadvantages: Certain parts may be shut due to private events
...Living in Dover means that we don't have too many facilities. Dover Leisure Centre is about the only sporting facility in Dover other than the football and rugby pitches. Location Dover Leisure Centre is located on Townwall Street in Dover which is pretty much on the seafront and within walking distance to the Port of Dover. It is also within walking distance of Dover town, Dover Priory Station and Pencester bus station. Facilities There are two swimming pools at Dover Leisure Centre. There is a main swimming pool which is 25 metres and also a learner / childrens pool. In the main pool, there are two lanes of the swimming pool which are sectioned off to create one slow, and one fast swimming lane. The rest of the pool is then literally just open water where people can swim at their own leisure. The smaller pool is much...
daylehall 24.01.2008 · Read review
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Review of Dover Leisure Centre, Dover
Sitting On The Dock Of The Bay
Advantages: relaxing atmosphere, tasty food, live music
Disadvantages: service can be a bit slow when its busy
...Cullins Yard is situated on Dover Marina, opposite the Western Docks and about a 5 minute walk from the main town of Dover. I have eaten at Cullins Yard on several occasions and have found it to be very pleasant. Inside Cullins Yard there is a large restaurant which overlooks Dover Marina and makes for a very relaxing atmosphere. The restaurant is decorated with pictures and items which are relevant to the town of Dover and the Dover Marina. In the centre of the restaurant is a large bar which serves a selection of alcoholic and soft drinks. As well as the restaurant, there is also a fully heated conservatory which can be hired out for private events such as birthday parties and weddings. When this room is not hired out, guests can enjoy their meal out here which is especially nice in the summer. There is also a fairly large garden...
daylehall 08.01.2008 · Read review
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Review of Cullins Yard, Dover, Kent
The Cricketers Pub
Advantages: large garden, BBQ's held on Sunday, cheap drinks, friendly atmosphere
Disadvantages: A little out of town
...The Cricketers Pub is located in the village of River, just outside Dover. It is located right next door to Crabble Cricket, Football and Rugby Grounds. I like the Cricketers pub as it certainly has a village feel to it, and you tend to get a good crowd of people in here because it is not in the main town, and doesnt attract young drunks! The Pub The bar inside is fairly large with plenty of seating. There is a large plasma TV which shows various sporting events such as football, tennis and rugby games. There is a lower level to the bar area, and in here are a couple of gaming machines as well as pool tables. In one corner there is also a dart board. To the left of the pool tables, is a small corridor which leads out to the male and female toilets. If you walk past the toilets, you will find yourself in the pub garden. There is...
Jamie73 11.01.2008 · Read review
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Review of The Cricketers Pub, Dover, Kent
Dover Gateway to England
Advantages: Busy port. Shopping is reasonably good. White cliffs and Castle are attractive
Disadvantages: Lacks character
...Bounded on one side by the Channel coastline and the famous White Cliffs,Dover in Kent is very much a maritime town. Throughout the ages this surprisingly small town has been the gateway into England from Continental Europe. For many Britons heading for holidays in Europe,Dover is the place to hurry through in order to board the ferry or hovercraft at the two passenger docks. Few have the time or even the inclination to explore the town. The well known landmarks of the White Cliffs and imposing Dover Castle located on a dramatic hill top setting blend well with the town's bustling port. You can enjoy a birds-eye-view of the busiest passenger port in the world from the Langdon Cliffs picnic site. The town itself frankly is not particularly distinguished. It is rather lacking in architectural character compared to the likes...
Marek
I think therefore I am (not a Tory supporter)
Jan Higgins
- Location: Dover
- Registered: 5 Jul 2010
- Posts: 13,861
24 February 2011
08:1693977Paul, I cannot think of anywhere that has a play area, like you I avoid such places.
If you are unable to find somewhere you could always take them on the beach or for a walk first then give each one a colouing book with pens, I found that worked with my grandchildre when they were young.
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I try to be neutral and polite but it is hard and getting even more difficult at times.
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Guest 653- Registered: 13 Mar 2008
- Posts: 10,540
24 February 2011
08:2193979For a family-friendly restaurant, you could try the Kittiwake at Whitfield, they have a good sized play area for children and as the restaurant is large, there's plenty of space for people who prefer a child-free zone.
From the Whitfield roundabout, it's the turning for the Council offices and the first roundabout after that, turn right and it's there.
The food's O.K. 2 (adult) meals for £10 and there is a children's menu too.
Roger
Keith Sansum1
- Location: london
- Registered: 25 Aug 2010
- Posts: 23,911
24 February 2011
08:2993980just moving slightly off subject on marek's findings
there is loads of other sports that go on in Dover other than football, rugby, and the leisure centre.
so whoever wrote that piece is way off the mark and needs to research more
ALL POSTS ARE MY OWN PERSONAL VIEWS
Guest 698- Registered: 28 May 2010
- Posts: 8,664
24 February 2011
09:5193983Have you considered the Sea Sports Centre Beach Restaurant? No play area inside but quite a large one outside, called the beach!
I'm an optimist. But I'm an optimist who takes my raincoat - Harold Wilson
Guest 655- Registered: 13 Mar 2008
- Posts: 10,247
24 February 2011
11:3193993Good idea Peter, but a cold March!!!!!
DT1- Location: Dover
- Registered: 15 Apr 2008
- Posts: 1,116
24 February 2011
12:0494000I would agree with Roger. That is about as good as it gets. Personally I think designated indoor play areas and good food are mutually exclusive events.
We are a funny bunch when it comes to kids and food/drink. People seem to favour taking kids where they are permitted to do what they like. Please do not think I am making a judgement here as I have taken my children to the Kittiwake etc, and happily let them bounce off the walls of the designated padded cell. They also always give you some kind of 'pack' that includes 4 crayons that don't seem to work(how this is achieved I do not know!)
However, it has to said, I hate it and I don't think the kids even like them that much. When you take them to a proper restaurant or pub, they generally rise to the occasion and sit really well. I prefer them at the table. Sometimes they kick off and that's the time to take them outside. There are loads of pubs and restaurants that really understand this approach but equally many that are awfully intolerant...a good example being the Griffin's Head at Chilenden, a superb pub but run by the child catcher from Chitty Chitty Bang Bang.
In places like Italy, you actually get preferential treatment if you take children into restaurants. It's a shame we don't have more places approaching this socialisation in a similar way. Pubs are turned into taboo establishments where people just go and get drunk, when the reality is that they are places people go to talk and be with other people.
I would like to add that both of the publicans who post on this site are great with children in their establishments and prove that you don't need a padded cell if you you have high expectations of the children's behaviour.
Guest 698- Registered: 28 May 2010
- Posts: 8,664
26 February 2011
18:1394352We always find that civilised parents have civilised children. Yours have always behaved perfectly in our place, Darren.
I'm an optimist. But I'm an optimist who takes my raincoat - Harold Wilson
Guest 641- Registered: 12 Mar 2008
- Posts: 2,335
26 February 2011
20:2194371I agree with post 18, when I worked in Spain and also Italy the taverna's and restaurants are very pro children which I quite like.
If someone wanted to avoid the ambiance of the little angelic cherubs (usually British tourists) they went to the nearest tapas bar
