The Long Rest

8 Butchery Ln, Canterbury CT1 2JR, United Kingdom
+44 1227 851662
$$$ Cafe
(64 Reviews)
Price Range £10–20

Located in the heart of Canterbury, The Long Rest is not just a cafe; it's a whimsical escape into a fantasy world where board games and comfort food collide. Nestled at 8 Butchery Lane, this unique establishment invites you to unwind in a medieval-themed atmosphere that feels both welcoming and immersive. The moment you step inside, the blend of historic charm and vibrant décor sets the tone for a delightful experience.

As you settle in, you're surrounded by a vast selection of board games just waiting to be explored. Whether you're a casual player or a seasoned strategist, The Long Rest has the perfect game for your group. From lively Dungeons & Dragons sessions to casual board game nights, the cafe offers a space that transforms into a community hub, where laughter and friendly competition abound. As customer Joanne Order perfectly puts it, there's a great vibe with a fun medieval theme, ensuring that every visit feels like an adventure.

The Long Rest isn't just about games; the food is a highlight in its own right. Though specific menu items aren't listed, customers rave about the delicious offerings that accompany the gaming experience. Savorable meals and tasty drinks are crafted to complement your time spent with friends or family, making the cafe a wonderful place to indulge and refuel during those exciting game sessions. With praises for the friendly staff, especially Ben, who is lauded for his helpfulness and warmth, guests feel right at home as they sip on cocktails and enjoy their favorite games.

The variety of events hosted at The Long Rest adds another layer of appeal. Whether it's a themed tea evening or a special D&D learning session, there’s always something happening that encourages camaraderie and shared experiences. Just hear it from Henry's review: “Ben was an incredible DM; he crafted a welcoming, immersive world,” showcasing the tailored experience that guests can expect.

The atmosphere is perfectly cozy and relaxed, making it an ideal spot for families, friends, or even solo adventurers looking to dive into a fantasy world. With ample space in the basement and a fantastic selection of games, Kreion captures it aptly—this is a great new space for Canterbury, just waiting to be explored.

If you’re looking for a unique cafe experience, The Long Rest is your destination. With an inviting ambiance, a vast array of games, and delightful food options, it’s a place where you can easily lose track of time and create unforgettable memories. As Cat Moran shares, the cafe is not just about games, but also a perfect venue for events, making it a staple in the local community. There’s no doubt that The Long Rest will become your new favorite spot to gather, play, and savor.

Accessibility
No wheelchair-accessible car park
No wheelchair-accessible toilet
Service options
Offers takeaway
Serves dine-in
No delivery
Highlights
Has fireplace
Serves great coffee
Serves great dessert
Has great tea selection
Offerings
Serves alcohol
Serves beer
Serves cocktails
Serves coffee
Has free water refills
Serves small plates
Serves vegan dishes
Serves vegetarian dishes
Serves wine
Dining options
Serves breakfast
Serves brunch
Serves lunch
Serves dinner
Serves dessert
Has seating
Amenities
Has bar on site
Has toilet
Has Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Trendy
Crowd
Family friendly
Good for groups
LGBTQ+ friendly
Popular with tourists
Transgender safe space
Popular with university students
Planning
Accepts reservations
Payments
Accepts credit cards
Accepts debit cards
Accepts NFC mobile payments
Credit cards
Children
Good for kids
Pets
Dogs allowed
Dogs allowed inside
Dogs allowed outside
Openings Hours
Checking

Monday

Closed

Tuesday

1:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Wednesday

1:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Thursday

1:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Friday

1:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Saturday

10:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Sunday

10:00 AM - 8:00 PM

64 Reviews
Joanne Order

19 Sep 2025

Great vibe with a fun medieval theme! Loads of board games to enjoy, tasty 2-for-£16 cocktails during the week, and a relaxed atmosphere. Big thanks to Ben for being super helpful!

Henry

02 Sep 2025

Wonderful experience all around! Our group signed up for the "Learn to Play D&D" with zero experience, and we were completely hooked from the very first session. Ben was an incredible DM; he crafted a welcoming, immersive world full of laughter, high-stakes decisions, and unforgettable moments. The entire staff is incredibly warm and inviting, creating a space that feels more like a community than just a venue. There’s a real buzz of energy here, with tons of events and upcoming plans that we can’t wait to be part of. (Also, the cakes are divine, so make to grab a slice)

Kreion

08 Aug 2025

Great new space for Canterbury with good food and a chill vibe. Once you get down into the basement there's a good amount of space and easy access to the bar. Good selection of games too so had a fun time trying something new with friends! Would definitely come back :)

Taylor Rowland

17 Jul 2025

Been going regularly now with my society. The owner is brilliant at organising our bookings, had many different kinds of meals there and enjoyed every last one and an amazingly high arrangement of games that leave us spending our first hour picking the game we want to play most.

Alex Cachia

08 Jul 2025

I've been waiting so long for a board games cafe in Canterbury and The Long Rest did not disappoint! The food was great, they have a huge selection of board games and the staff were super friendly. Unlike most board game cafes games are only included if the staff have experience with them so they can actually recommend something for you based on group size, experience and timings. I can't wait to go back!

Cat Moran

21 Jun 2025

Such a cosy atmosphere in a gorgeous historic building. Not only a great space to play boardgames but we've taken part in a couple of evening events of Blood on the Clocktower which is tons of fun and a good way to meet other gamers. Definitely will be back and recommend the Dungeons & Dragons themed speciality teas!

Ami Rathmill

06 Jun 2025

Such a lovely atmosphere, super welcoming and kind. Lovely table with plenty of room for a big game and our drinks etc. We're a family of 4, with two 11 years olds, who also loved it. 4-7pm slot was perfect for us. Found an amazing vintage Pokémon game that we all enjoyed. Amazing game library. Great selection of teas. We're local and will definitely be going back!

anna dewen

05 Jun 2025

Such a great place ! Owner was so friendly and accommodating, the food and drinks were lovely, and it was such a nice quiet cosy atmosphere to relax and play games with friends. I will definitely be back to play a D&D session here, it’s the perfect place !

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