The Abbots Fireside, surrounded by breathtaking countryside, has five delightful bedrooms all named after the well-known or local people relating to the history of this ancient building. The Duke of wellington used the hotel as his headquaters whilst preparing his battle with Napoleon at Waterloo. King Charles II and the Duke of Richmond hid in the main fireplace when being chased by the Roundheads. When you enter the Abbots Fireside, you will encounter a warm and friendly welcome, be surrounded by antique furniture, open firesplaces, original leaded glass windows throughout the lounge, restaurant and bedrooms. Our lounge and restaurant feature huge medieval fireplaces which are, like the hotel itself, listed by the Historical Society. Built as an inn in 1451 and throughout Tudor and Stuart times, the building was known as 'The Smithies Arms'. The restaurant now carries an excellent repuation for its cuisine. All types of meals are spit roasted in the fireplace which is a main feature of the reception area. You will find a selection of meats from the spit roast featured on the menu daily, as well as offerings of a lunch or dinner table d'hote menu. The village of Elham lies in the centre of Elham Valley, declared an area of outstanding natural beauty. You can walk or cycle for hours through the unspoilt Kentish hills. There are three golf courses in the area and a course at leeds Castle, which is only 30 minutes away. Interesting places to visit are the city of Canterbury and its Cathedral, Dover Castle, Leeds Castle, Sissinghurst Gardens and the towns of Tenterden and Rye with their many antique shops. If you like to cross the Channel, the Abbots Fireside Hotel is the ideal location to stay the night. The Channel Tunnel is a 10 minute drive from Abbots Fireside, The Port of Dover only 20 minutes and Manston airport is 45 minutes away. We warmly welcome you to The Abbots Fireside and hope that will find your stay with us an enjoyable one.