The Leather Bottle Travel Guide

Free Guide: Historic 17th-century pub in Cobham offering seasonal British fare, a large garden, and a nod to Charles Dickens’ legacy.

A brief summary of The Leather Bottle

Historic 17th-century pub in Cobham offering seasonal British fare, a large garden, and a nod to Charles Dickens’ legacy.

The Leather Bottle is a charming 17th-century pub and hotel located in Cobham, Gravesend. Known as Charles Dickens' favourite alehouse, this historic venue offers a relaxed modern atmosphere with freshly prepared, locally sourced British and country-style dishes. It features a large garden with an outside bar, a private cocktail and tapas lounge, and seasonal menus that highlight fresh, high-quality ingredients.

1–3 hrsTime to spend
$$Mid-range
Indoor & outdoorSetting
4 / 5Mobile signal

On-site amenities

  • Restrooms
  • Drink options
  • Food options
  • Seating areas
  • Trash bins
  • Information boards
4.3 Very good · 800 Google reviews
Address
54, 56 The St, Cobham, Gravesend DA12 3BZ
Phone
Website

Getting there

Train and Taxi

From Gravesend railway station, take a taxi for a 15-20 minute ride to The Leather Bottle in Cobham. Taxis are readily available outside the station. This option is convenient and costs approximately £15-£20.

Bus

Local bus services connect Gravesend town centre to Cobham, with a journey time of around 30-40 minutes. Bus stops are a short walk from The Leather Bottle. Check local timetables for frequency; fares typically range from £3 to £5.

Car

Driving to The Leather Bottle is straightforward via the A2 and local roads. Free off-street parking is available on-site. Travel time from Gravesend town centre is about 15 minutes, depending on traffic.

Discover more about The Leather Bottle

A Storied Past and Literary Legacy

The Leather Bottle, established in 1629, stands as a testament to England's rich pub heritage. Famously known as Charles Dickens’ favourite alehouse, it is even mentioned in his work “The Pickwick Papers.” The building itself retains its historic charm while offering a welcoming, relaxed modern atmosphere. Visitors can appreciate the blend of centuries-old character with contemporary comforts, making it a unique cultural landmark in Cobham.

Seasonal Menus with Local Flavour

The pub prides itself on a menu that changes seasonally, showcasing the best of British and country food traditions. Dishes are freshly prepared using locally sourced ingredients, ensuring quality and flavour. The menu includes classic pub fare such as fish and chips, hunters chicken, and vegan options like stuffed portabello mushrooms and chicken katsu curry. Lunchtime specials offer great value with two courses for £16 and three courses for £19, featuring starters, mains, and desserts that cater to various dietary needs including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free.

Atmosphere and Facilities

Inside, the pub combines traditional rustic designs with a modern twist, creating a cosy yet lively environment. The large garden is a standout feature, equipped with an outside bar and covered marquees, ideal for social gatherings and seasonal events like BBQs. A private cocktail and tapas lounge offers freshly made cocktails and a selection of tapas dishes, perfect for a more intimate or celebratory experience.

Community and Events

The Leather Bottle is more than just a pub; it is a hub for community and festivities. Regular events and seasonal celebrations are hosted in the spacious garden and indoor areas, fostering a vibrant social scene. The staff are known for their friendly and accommodating service, enhancing the welcoming atmosphere for families, couples, and solo visitors alike.

Accommodation and Additional Amenities

As a hotel, The Leather Bottle offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities, complementing the dining and social experience. Guests can enjoy a full English breakfast and easy access to the picturesque surroundings of Cobham. The venue also features free off-street parking, free Wi-Fi, and is dog friendly, making it convenient and accessible for a wide range of visitors.

Location and Accessibility

Situated at 54-56 The Street in Cobham, Gravesend, the pub is easily reachable within the Kent region. Its historic and cultural significance combined with its culinary offerings make it a noteworthy destination for those exploring the area or seeking a traditional English pub experience with a modern edge.

Evendo Review Centre

Reviews from Google
By star rating

Guest reviews

Best time to go

Quietest: Jan, Feb & Mar · before 7am or from 11pm

How busy it gets, month by month Estimated
  1. Jan: 50% of the busiest month, one of the quietest
  2. Feb: 50% of the busiest month, one of the quietest
  3. Mar: 60% of the busiest month, one of the quietest
  4. Apr: 70% of the busiest month
  5. May: 80% of the busiest month
  6. Jun: 90% of the busiest month
  7. Jul: 100% of the busiest month
  8. Aug: 100% of the busiest month
  9. Sep: 80% of the busiest month
  10. Oct: 70% of the busiest month
  11. Nov: 60% of the busiest month
  12. Dec: 70% of the busiest month
How busy it gets, hour by hour Estimated
  1. 5am: 11% of the busiest hour, one of the quietest
  2. 6am: 22% of the busiest hour, one of the quietest
  3. 7am: 33% of the busiest hour
  4. 8am: 44% of the busiest hour
  5. 9am: 56% of the busiest hour
  6. 10am: 67% of the busiest hour
  7. 11am: 78% of the busiest hour
  8. 12pm: 89% of the busiest hour
  9. 1pm: 100% of the busiest hour
  10. 2pm: 100% of the busiest hour
  11. 3pm: 89% of the busiest hour
  12. 4pm: 78% of the busiest hour
  13. 5pm: 89% of the busiest hour
  14. 6pm: 100% of the busiest hour
  15. 7pm: 89% of the busiest hour
  16. 8pm: 78% of the busiest hour
  17. 9pm: 56% of the busiest hour
  18. 10pm: 33% of the busiest hour
  19. 11pm: 11% of the busiest hour, one of the quietest

Busy times are Evendo estimates for a typical year, to help you plan. Actual crowds vary with events, school holidays and the weather.

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