What is it?
The most iconic pub in Whitstable, possibly even the UK, the Old Neptune serves up good pints and wonderfully uncomplicated seafood right on the beach, with a postcard view to match. Locals call it the ’Neppy’, by the way.
How old is the Old Neptune?
This old thing has been around since the 19th century, and it’s somehow managed to keep its old-school charm (if you can excuse the cliché), even as it becomes a ridiculously trendy spot for locals and DFLs alike (that’s short for Down From London, but there is a ruder version). Over the years, this spot has had a number of celebrity visits – you’ll find the photos stuck up on the wall, along with a tribute to Roger Michell’s 2006 film Venus, which filmed one of its scenes here.
What should I order?
Now that we’ve had to say goodbye to Whitstable’s beloved fish and chip shop, V.C. Jones, this is the spot for your fishy fix. I also love the crab sandwich here (lots of Whitstable’s restaurants use the same bread from Grain & Hearth, and it slaps). It’s far from the best seafood in Whitstable, but it’s well-priced and it’ll certainly hit the spot after a few beers.
What are the prices like?
Actually very reasonable, with a fair few pints under the £6 mark. You won’t find any Beavertowns or Brewdogs here, but the Whitstable lager is much better anyway. Bloody Mary’s are small but come in at around £7, which is the same as the prosecco, served in those tiny fun bottles instead of by the glass.
Time Out tip
Call in advance if you want to book a table. And beware that the food stops early here, even on weekends, so get in your oyster and fish and chip orders in before 8pm.
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