Pilgrims' Hall

The Pilgrims’ Hall is the oldest building in the Great Courtyard within The Friars, offering a cosy and unqiue space for lunch in the heat of Aylesford. Its history is clear from your initial entrance, and it dates back to around the 13th century. Although the buildings have Elizabethan touches with windows that were replaced in the 17th century, and a kitchen that dates back to the 1950s, the Pilgrims' Hall is in fact a building from the 13th century, when it served as a shelter for pilgrims on their way to Canterbury. Just as it is for the team today, hospitality was hugely important in Carmelite culture, and the tradition has been continued. The Pilgrims' Hall initially became a barn, then a brewery and even the headquarters for a Scouts group before transforming into the venue that it is today.

In the present day, hot meals are served in the Pilgrims Hall, inviting guests in from the outside world. Booking is essential, and the venue is open from 11am until 3pm Monday through to Sunday. There is a licensed bar on site, so you can enjoy a selection of wines, beers and ciders. On Sundays, there is a delicious roast on offer, whilst afternoon tea is served on the last Wednesday of every month. No matter what you order for lunch at Pilgrims Hall, you will be able to enjoy dishes made using fresh, local produce, and homemade cakes.