Canterbury has no shortage of quirky corners and historic haunts, but The John manages to be both of those things at once. Set in Burgate’s former underground public toilets (yes, really), this subterranean cocktail bar has turned history on its head, swapping cubicles for cocktails and porcelain for perfectly mixed Negronis.
The John is more than a gimmick, though. Under the careful direction of owner Tim – who brings two decades of London hospitality know-how back to his hometown – it’s become a cosy, stylish spot where atmosphere matters as much as what’s in your glass. And what’s in your glass is good: a drinks list built on the classics, from Espresso Martinis to Old Fashioneds, alongside premium wines and spirits sourced from around the globe.
Open from early evening until late, the bar has two distinct moods. Before 10pm, it’s dog-friendly, so you can bring your four-legged friend along while you sip and chat in the candlelit glow. Afterwards, The John loosens its tie and transforms into a late-night venue, with live music and a buzzing energy that fills the vaulted underground space until the small hours.
The building itself adds to the intrigue. Originally built in the 1930s as public conveniences, it closed in 2000 and was later bought at auction before being carefully restored and refitted as a luxury bar. The tongue-in-cheek name is a nod to those roots, paying homage to Sir John Harington, the inventor of the flush toilet.
Despite its playful beginnings, the vision here is serious: to create a place where locals and visitors alike feel welcome, looked after, and just a little bit indulgent. Whether you’re starting your night with a glass of something sparkling, winding down with a smooth whisky, or losing yourself in live music, The John offers a drinking experience that’s equal parts history, humour and high-class hospitality.
So next time you’re in Canterbury, skip the obvious pubs and head underground. At The John, you’ll find cocktails with character, service with soul, and an atmosphere that’s flush with charm.