‪This pub is brilliant for sporting events and community. There is not better place to watch rugby in Canterbury. I watched all Lions Games at 8.30 in the morning and there is a wonderful community feeling of being with friends. The breakfast special was the cheapest huge plate of English breakfast and almost inedible which though included in the price, the tepid weak instant coffee did nothing to improve. Went back for the Autumn Internationals where it was absolutely buzzing and we might as well have been at Twickenham. Don't even think of going for a quiet romantic evening or a gourmet meal - that's not what they do. The staff are great and the landlord makes you feel like an honoured guest in his home.‬

‪I'm told the atmosphere can be variable, depending on the passion driven by the mainly rugby supporting clientele. In the gaps between sporting events, (and not just those inspired by William Web Ellis), it can be a great place to chill out as was the case on my visit. While being regarded as a sports bar it also accommodates poetry and the arts, in fact while I was there a life drawing class was being held in one of the function rooms upstairs. I found the drinks to be reasonably priced with a good selection on offer. However, in my opinion the most important experience in the Jolly Sailor was the customer service and I'm pleased to report that this is where the staff excelled.‬