THE FITZWALTER ARMS, GOODNESTONE

The "Fitz" has been a pub since 1702 and is situated midway between Canterbury and the coast in the village of Goodnestone.

It is a quintessential English pub, the centre of village life - a place of coniviality and conversation. To this day it remains the village hostelry to the Fitzwalter Estate, famous for its gardens and connection to the author Jane Austen.

The home of Lord and Lady Fitzwalter is surrounded by 14-acres of gardens set in 18th century parkland and is within easy walking distance of the pub. Outstanding features are the trees, the walled garden with its collection of old-fashioned roses and clematis plus lawns and woodland. Jane Austen was a frequent visitor to Goodnestone Park after her brother, Edward, married a daughter of the house.

The Fitz also has a large beer garden.

The historic city of Canterbury is within easy driving distance. Howletts Zoo Park isn't far away and both the Broome Park and Prince's golf clubs are nearby.