Take one country manor fallen on hard times (with a raucous history, courtesy of Led Zeppelin), apply a modern rural-luxe makeover, a 25-mile menu, a fabulous bar and some treatment rooms and – voila! – you've hit the hospitality jackpot.
The Pig at Bridge Place is a triumph, rain or shine. This newest addition in the hotel group’s small and very well turned out collection excels where it matters most – the people. From the restaurant to the reception and everywhere between, the attentive staff are smiley, friendly and relaxed. There's plenty to see and do. Potter through the walled garden, feast on mouth-watering pizza, sample superb Kentish wines on the terrace or relax with a spa treatment.
Being new and boutique - just 29 rooms - you might find it hard to get a booking, but do keep trying. We adored the pimped-up wood cabin vibe of the Hop Pickers' Huts and the spacious, elegant Coach House rooms. If you like a bit of history opt for the rooms inside the main house. Bridge Place is easily reached by train from central London (60mins), and just three miles south of historic Canterbury, so you have no excuses not to make it here. Yet make it you must, as soon as possible. We've already booked our next stay.
Highs
- Superlative staff. Guy, Jamie and the rest of the team at Bridge Place demonstrate all that is best in friendly, relaxed service
- The Insta-worthy restaurant with its open kitchen knocking out delicious but unpretentious food and tasty drinks
- Beautifully renovated rooms with lots of luxe additions: Bramley toiletries, KitchenAid coffee machines, fluffy robes
- The walled garden. Immaculately presented with its wood-fired pizza Garden Oven for a casual lunch or light supper
- For total privacy, The Barn is a dream – a gorgeous hideaway in the old stable block with a freestanding roll-top bath and views of the Kentish meadows
Lows
- Parking is limited on busy weekends
- Treatments are fantastic but pricey, and with only two treatment rooms in the Potting Shed, we advise you book well ahead
- Some rooms have low ceilings; guests with mobility issues should avoid the rooms with stairs to a mezzanine level
Best time to go
It's impossible to find a time not to go! Rooms have great A/C and plenty of terraces (and shady spots) in summer, while the cosy bar and the myriad nooks are perfect for winter (plus wood-burning stoves in the Hop Pickers Huts).
Our top tips
If travelling as a family or with friends, consider a Lodge for greater value and more space (two cottages with their own parking, partially stocked kitchen, living room, two bedrooms, and small garden terrace).
Location
The Pig at Bridge Place is located within the village of Bridge, a short distance from the historic city of Canterbury.
By Air
The nearest international airport is London City, (99km). For a list of airlines serving this airport, click the links at the bottom of the page.
From the Airport
The hotel can arrange transfers, or you can hire a car or hop on a train (see below).
By Train
The nearest station is Bekesbourne (36mins), served by Southeastern Trains from London Victoria. Quicker and more frequent trains go direct from London St Pancras to nearby Canterbury. See Seat 61 for more details.
By Car
The Pig at Bridge Place is under two hours by car from central London. See our car rental recommendations.
Detailed directions will be sent to you once your booking is confirmed through i-escape.
More on getting to the UK and getting around
Airports:
- London City Airport 99.0 km LCY
Other:
- Beach 23.0 km
- Shops 15.0 km
- Restaurant 0.5 km
Our guests' ratings...
Based on 2 independent reviews from i-escape guests
Feedback is only from guests who have booked and stayed through i-escape