The Leather Bottle: Historic Alehouse and Dickensian Landmark in Cobham
Historic 17th-century pub in Cobham, beloved by Charles Dickens, offering seasonal local cuisine, a cocktail lounge, and expansive gardens.
The Leather Bottle is a charming 17th-century pub and hotel located in Cobham, Gravesend, Kent. Known as Charles Dickens' favourite alehouse, it features a timbered medieval façade and has a rich literary heritage, having been mentioned in Dickens’ “The Pickwick Papers.” The venue offers locally sourced seasonal cuisine, a cocktail and tapas lounge, and one of the largest gardens in the area, making it a perfect blend of historic charm and modern hospitality.
A brief summary to The Leather Bottle
- 54, 56 The St, Gravesend, Cobham, DA12 3BZ, GB
- +441474814327
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Try the seasonal menu featuring locally sourced ingredients and inquire about gluten-free options.
- Visit the cocktail and tapas lounge for a relaxed evening with handcrafted drinks and small plates.
- Explore the large garden area, especially during events like BBQs or outdoor gatherings.
- Take time to appreciate the historic timbered architecture and the Dickens memorabilia inside.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take the local bus service from Gravesend town center to Cobham village, which runs approximately every 30 minutes. The journey takes about 25-35 minutes. From the bus stop, the pub is a short walk along The Street. Tickets cost around £3-£5 one way.
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Car
Driving from Gravesend to The Leather Bottle takes approximately 15 minutes via local roads. Limited parking is available near the pub, so early arrival is recommended. Parking is free but spaces can be scarce during peak times.
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Train and Walk
From Gravesend railway station, take a taxi or local bus to Cobham village, about 6 km away. The taxi ride typically takes 10 minutes and costs around £10-£15. Walking from Cobham village center to the pub takes about 5 minutes over flat terrain.
The Leather Bottle location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about The Leather Bottle
A Storied Past Rooted in the 17th Century
The Leather Bottle stands as a remarkable example of a timbered medieval inn, originally built in 1629. Its name is said to derive from a curious discovery around 1720 when a leather-bound bottle containing gold sovereigns was found on the premises. This historic pub has long been a central fixture in Cobham, preserving its authentic architectural character through centuries.Charles Dickens and Literary Heritage
The Leather Bottle is famously associated with Charles Dickens, who frequented the inn on numerous occasions and even stayed overnight before acquiring his nearby residence at Gads Hill. Dickens immortalized the pub in his novel “The Pickwick Papers,” describing it as a 'clean and commodious village ale-house.' Today, the inn houses a collection of Dickens memorabilia, including pictures and prints, celebrating its literary significance.Atmosphere and Modern Amenities
While retaining its historic charm, The Leather Bottle offers a relaxed and contemporary atmosphere. The interior blends period features with modern comforts, including a private cocktail and tapas lounge where guests can enjoy freshly prepared cocktails and a variety of tapas dishes made from scratch. The pub’s menu changes seasonally, emphasizing locally sourced ingredients and catering to diverse dietary needs, including gluten-free options.Expansive Gardens and Outdoor Experience
One of The Leather Bottle’s standout features is its extensive garden, reputed to be among the largest and most beautiful in the region. The outdoor space includes a bar, covered marquees, and hosts occasional BBQ events, providing a vibrant setting for social gatherings and seasonal festivities. This garden area enhances the venue’s appeal, offering a scenic and tranquil environment.Community and Cultural Significance
Situated in Cobham, a village rich with history and medieval architecture, The Leather Bottle is part of a broader cultural landscape that includes landmarks such as the 13th-century Church of St. Mary Magdalene and Cobham College. The pub’s connection to local history and folklore, including tales linked to the surrounding parklands and notable events, adds depth to its visitor experience.Welcoming Visitors with Warmth and Tradition
The Leather Bottle remains a beloved destination for locals and travelers alike, combining centuries-old tradition with welcoming hospitality. Its blend of historic ambiance, literary legacy, and quality food and drink makes it a unique and memorable stop in Gravesend’s Cobham area.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Falklands Island Monument
11.1 km
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Laindon War Memorial
20.5 km
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Southend Pier and Railway
27.1 km
Discover the iconic Southend Pier and Railway, a historic landmark offering breathtaking views, delightful train rides, and family-friendly activities.
Southend-on-Sea Seafront
27.3 km
Discover the magic of Southend-on-Sea Seafront, where tradition meets seaside fun, perfect for family outings and creating lasting memories.
Wayfinding Stone
27.3 km
Explore the Wayfinding Stone in Southend-on-Sea, a unique monument that symbolizes navigation and adventure, connecting visitors to local heritage.
Southend Central Museum & Planetarium
27.4 km
Discover local history and celestial wonders at Southend Central Museum & Planetarium, a must-visit attraction in Southend-on-Sea.
Hopefield Animal Sanctuary
27.5 km
Explore Hopefield Animal Sanctuary in Brentwood, a nurturing haven for rescued animals and a must-visit for nature-loving tourists seeking compassion and education.
Sealife Adventure
27.6 km
Explore the captivating marine life at Sealife Adventure, Southend-on-Sea's premier aquarium, featuring over 40 exhibits and interactive experiences.
Prittlewell Priory
27.9 km
Discover the rich history and tranquil beauty of Prittlewell Priory, a captivating museum and former monastery in Southend-on-Sea.
Southchurch Hall
28.1 km
Explore the historical elegance and serene gardens of Southchurch Hall, a captivating museum in Southend-on-Sea that reveals the region's rich heritage.
Prittlewell royal Anglo-Saxon burial
28.1 km
Explore the earliest princely Anglo-Saxon burial in England, revealing a royal Christian tomb rich with ancient treasures and history.
Southchurch Park
28.2 km
Discover the tranquility and beauty of Southchurch Park, a serene escape in Southend-on-Sea perfect for relaxation, picnics, and nature walks.
Old MacDonald's Farm & Fun Park
28.5 km
Experience family fun and educational adventures at Old MacDonald's Farm & Fun Park in Brentwood, where animals and amusement come together.
Ranger's House - The Wernher Collection
29.2 km
Explore the Wernher Collection at Ranger's House, a historic art museum in Greenwich, London, showcasing exquisite art and cultural treasures.
International House
29.2 km
Discover the International House in London, a symbol of global unity and vibrant cultural exchange at the heart of the city.
Unmissable attractions to see
St Mary Magdalene Church, Cobham
0.1 km
Discover Cobham’s medieval gem, St Mary Magdalene Church, famed for its stunning architecture and England’s finest collection of medieval brasses.
Tilbury Fort
7.1 km
Explore Tilbury Fort, a stunning 16th-century riverside fortress guarding London with star-shaped bastions, rich history, and scenic Thames views.
Rochester Castle
7.1 km
Explore one of England’s finest Norman castles with towering keeps, epic siege history, and stunning views over the River Medway.
Guildhall Museum
7.2 km
Explore Medway’s rich history in a stunning 17th-century Guildhall with immersive exhibits from Roman times to Dickensian England.
Rochester Cathedral
7.3 km
Explore Rochester Cathedral, England’s second oldest cathedral, a Norman and Gothic masterpiece with 1,400 years of history, art, and spiritual heritage.
Restoration House
7.4 km
Explore Restoration House, an exquisite Elizabethan mansion in Rochester that hosted King Charles II and inspired Dickens’ Satis House, with stunning gardens and rich history.
Six Poor Traveller House
7.4 km
Step into Tudor philanthropy and Dickensian charm at Rochester’s historic Six Poor Travellers House, a timeless sanctuary for travellers since 1579.
Eastgate House
7.5 km
Discover Eastgate House, a beautifully restored Tudor townhouse in Rochester with rich history and Charles Dickens’ iconic writing chalet in its tranquil gardens.
Coalhouse Fort Park
8.6 km
Explore a Victorian riverside fortress steeped in history, surrounded by tranquil parkland and sweeping Thames views.
The Historic Dockyard Chatham
9.1 km
Step aboard history at The Historic Dockyard Chatham, where centuries of British naval heritage come alive across 80 acres of ships, galleries, and craftsmanship.
Funky Friday Over 30's Night
10.1 km
A monthly nostalgic dance party for over 30s featuring 80s and 90s classics at Greenhithe’s welcoming Royal British Legion.
Bluewater Shopping Centre
10.3 km
Kent’s premier shopping and leisure destination with over 300 stores, diverse dining, and unique entertainment in a stunning natural setting.
Brands Hatch
10.6 km
Experience the thrill and history of Brands Hatch, Kent’s iconic motor racing circuit with legendary corners and world-class events.
Dartford Crossing (Southbound)
12.7 km
Discover Dartford Crossing, a stunning bridge over the River Thames, connecting Kent and Essex, and offering breathtaking views for all visitors.
Upside Down House – Lakeside
13.2 km
Experience the UK's first upside-down house where gravity is flipped and fun is guaranteed in a vibrant, family-friendly setting at Lakeside.
Essential places to dine
Aspera
22.3 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean flavors with fresh, locally sourced ingredients in a stylish and welcoming setting in Benfleet.
La Quinta Restaurant & Venue Hire - Benfleet Essex
23.1 km
Experience superb dining, lively entertainment, and warm hospitality at La Quinta, Benfleet’s premier restaurant and event venue.
The Magic Mushroom
23.7 km
A stylish fine dining experience blending British and Mediterranean flavors in a charming converted barn on Billericay’s outskirts.
The Dining Room
24.1 km
Cozy British and European dining with fresh, local ingredients and friendly service in the heart of Leigh-on-Sea.
Dukes Head Billericay
24.3 km
A charming gastropub in Billericay blending traditional British fare with a warm, inviting atmosphere and scenic outdoor spaces.
Leigh Bistro Restaurant
24.7 km
Charming family-run bistro serving fresh contemporary European cuisine in the vibrant heart of Leigh-on-Sea.
Toulouse Restaurant
25.6 km
Modern European dining with fresh local flavors and stunning estuary views on Westcliff-on-Sea’s Western Esplanade.
Oyster Creek Kitchen
25.9 km
Fresh seafood and coastal charm on the Westcliff waterfront, where attentive service meets seaside sophistication.
Padrino Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria
26.0 km
Classic Italian dining with warm hospitality and flavorful pizzas in the heart of Westcliff-on-Sea.
Prowse Restaurant
26.0 km
Authentic Turkish flavors and warm hospitality meet seaside charm at Prowse Restaurant in Westcliff-on-Sea.
Piccolo
26.0 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and lively dining by Southend’s beautiful seafront at Piccolo, a beloved Westcliff-on-Sea restaurant.
Great Tides Restaurant & Bar
26.4 km
Modern European dining with stunning sea views and a vibrant bar atmosphere on Westcliff Parade, Westcliff-on-Sea.
Il Mondo Southend
26.6 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Westcliff-on-Sea at Il Mondo Southend.
La Petite Petanque
26.9 km
Experience authentic French cuisine in a charming garden pavilion overlooking Southend’s bowling green, blending relaxed vibes with classic flavors.
Aurum Restaurant
27.0 km
Refined modern British dining with stunning estuary views at Southend’s boutique Seven Hotel.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Gifts for All Home Decor
23.3 km
Discover unique, stylish home decor and gifts at Gifts for All Home Decor, Hadleigh’s charming boutique with quality and affordability.
Latham Street
24.4 km
Discover sustainable vintage fashion reimagined with style and care at Latham Street in the heart of Leigh-on-Sea.
Store Thirty3
24.5 km
A charming gift shop on Elm Road offering unique local treasures in the heart of Leigh-on-Sea’s vibrant coastal town.
A Touch Too Wild
24.7 km
Elegant bespoke ladies' couture and formal wear boutique in the charming seaside town of Leigh-on-Sea.
La Luna Boutique
24.8 km
Discover unique bohemian fashion with a vintage rock ’n’ roll edge at La Luna Boutique in Leigh-on-Sea.
Unique Store
25.7 km
Explore London's Unique Store: Your go-to convenience shop for local snacks, souvenirs, and essentials, right in the heart of the city.
The Factory Shops
26.1 km
Discover unbeatable bargains and a diverse range of discounted goods at The Factory Shops, Rayleigh’s favorite value retail destination.
The Baytree Shopping Centre
26.2 km
A practical and accessible shopping centre at the heart of Brentwood, offering everyday essentials and local services.
Eliza Boutique
26.3 km
Discover timeless style and personalized service at Eliza Boutique, Westcliff-on-Sea’s independent ladies’ fashion destination.
Minnie's Boutique
26.3 km
Discover unique styles and personalized service at Minnie's Boutique, a charming ladies' clothing shop in Brentwood, perfect for every fashion enthusiast.
French Quarter
26.3 km
Discover unique gifts and artisan homewares in Brentwood’s welcoming French Quarter boutique.
Argosy Toys & Gifts
26.4 km
Discover a treasure trove of toys and gifts at Argosy Toys, a cherished independent shop in Westcliff-on-Sea since 1947.
The Happy Sole
26.9 km
Discover the charm of Westcliff-on-Sea at The Happy Sole, your go-to shop for unique gifts and local treasures.
Linked UK Clothing Limited
27.0 km
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By the Sea Vintage
27.0 km
Discover curated retro fashion and unique vintage treasures in the heart of Southend-on-Sea’s vibrant Alexandra Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Ninety Seven Wine & Cocktail Bar
21.1 km
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Fête Lounge
21.1 km
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The Prim and Proper Cocktail Bar
21.6 km
Basildon’s premier mobile cocktail bar delivering expert mixology and stylish service to your private events and celebrations.
Vertigo
22.6 km
A lively multi-level bar and restaurant in Hornchurch, perfect for casual drinks, celebrations, and enjoying great music in a stylish setting.
The Cocktail Kitchen
23.9 km
A lively cocktail bar and tapas spot in Leigh-on-Sea, famed for creative drinks, generous small plates, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Ten Green Bottles
24.4 km
A cozy, quirky bar tucked away in Leigh-on-Sea’s Rectory Grove, offering great drinks, live music, and a friendly vibe.
Peggy’s Music Bar Ltd
25.3 km
Experience vibrant music nights and a welcoming vibe at Peggy’s Music Bar, Leigh-on-Sea’s hotspot for DJs and social fun.
Cristi's Bar
25.8 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and expertly crafted cocktails in Billericay’s vibrant and stylish Cristi's Bar.
Harry's Bar
26.3 km
A stylish and welcoming bar and restaurant in Billericay’s heart, perfect for relaxed dining and vibrant socializing.
The Merchant Brentwood
26.4 km
A vibrant pub on Brentwood High Street serving artisan comfort food, lively sports, and spirited social gatherings from day to night.
The Trading Room Bar & Kitchen
26.4 km
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View Bar
26.8 km
Friendly seaside bar with great views, well-priced drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere on Southend’s Clifftown Parade.
The Cliff
26.8 km
A lively, inclusive LGBT+ pub in Southend-on-Sea offering great cocktails, karaoke nights, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
The Alex
26.9 km
A lively and welcoming pub in Southend-on-Sea offering great vegan options, casual British fare, and a vibrant social scene.
The N & M Club
27.0 km
Historic social club on Southend’s cliff top offering live entertainment, real ales, great food, and stunning sea views in a welcoming atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Air & Breathe Nightclub
14.2 km
Vibrant dual-zone nightclub in Dartford blending youthful energy with plush exclusivity for over 25s.
The Loft Basildon
20.2 km
Experience Basildon’s vibrant dance scene with energetic music nights, friendly staff, and a lively atmosphere at The Loft Basildon.
The Moonraker Club
25.9 km
A vibrant, intimate nightclub in Westcliff-on-Sea with top DJs, a powerful sound system, and a lively social scene for unforgettable nights out.
Sunrooms2
27.1 km
Experience Southend-on-Sea’s dynamic nightlife at Sunrooms², where live music and DJ-driven parties keep the energy alive until the early hours.
CQ LOUNGE
27.1 km
South London's Afrobeats epicenter: dance, shisha, cocktails, and culture until 5am in Woolwich's vibrant CQ Lounge.
Foundation
27.1 km
Vibrant nightclub and bar in Southend-on-Sea offering lively music, crafted cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere for memorable nights out.
MYST Club
27.2 km
Experience the vibrant pulse of Southend-on-Sea’s nightlife at MYST Club, where music, dancing, and social energy converge.
MooMoo Clubrooms Southend
27.4 km
Experience Southend’s vibrant nightlife at MooMoo Clubrooms, where themed rooms and lively beats create unforgettable party nights.
Just Vibez
27.6 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and non-stop dancing at Just Vibez, Southend-on-Sea’s energetic nightclub hotspot.
The Lounge Jazz Club
28.6 km
Experience intimate jazz and soul performances in a cozy, elegant venue near Southend Airport with fine drinks and a lively atmosphere.
LA Lounge
29.3 km
London's top Afrobeats nightclub in Docklands: ethnic sophistication, VIP vibes, cocktails, and late-night dances until 4am on weekends.
Oliver's Jazz Bar
29.9 km
Experience the soulful rhythms and vibrant atmosphere at Oliver's Jazz Bar, where great music meets delightful drinks in the heart of London.
American Express Invites Lounge
30.1 km
A backstage‑inspired, Cardmember-only lounge at The O2 with distinct seating zones, crafted drinks and a complimentary welcome drink on event nights.
(Admin Office) The Mobile Nightclub
30.4 km
Discover the joy of nightlife on the move with The Mobile Nightclub in London, where the party comes to you!
The Bunker
30.8 km
A compact, late-night basement club on Deptford Broadway offering affordable drinks, close-up atmosphere and energetic weekend sessions.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Lively
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Weekend Getaway
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
