"The present name is derived from the directive above its low doorway, which advised people to ‘Duck.’"

"Fleming’s favourite seat at The Duck is still in the inn’s garden and bears a plaque commemorating the author."

The Duck Inn, Pett Bottom, near Canterbury, Kent is one of the country’s most picturesque inns, nestling deep in the heart of The Garden of England.

Surrounded by lush, green fields, The Duck has many claims to fame and can trace its history to 1623 in the reign of James I.

In more recent times, it was one of the ‘locals’ of the James Bond author, Ian Fleming, who used to sit in The Duck’s beautiful gardens, where he found inspiration for some of the Bond adventures.

The Duck itself has its own mention in the Bond story, You Only Live Twice, which was turned into a highly successful film.

Fleming’s favourite seat at The Duck is still in the inn’s garden and bears a plaque commemorating the author.

Over the years, The Duck has built an enviable reputation for fine food and wine, together with a warm welcome.

It has undergone some changes since it was first opened as a hostelry and has had a number of name changes, including the Woodman’s Arms.

The present name is derived from the directive above its low doorway, which advised people to ‘Duck.’

To-day’s owners continue The Duck’s tradition of olde English hospitality, matched by a wide selection of culinary delicacies and drinks, from wines and spirits to cask ‘real ales.’

Food ranges from bar snacks and garden barbeques to lunches and dinners in the restaurant overlooking Kentish fields.

The bar lunch menu offers daily ‘Specials’ as well as a selection of Toasted Open Sandwiches including Mushroom and Stilton, Ham and Gruyere, Chicken Mayonnaise and Sirloin Steak. There are Chicken and Leek, Beef and Mushroom and Seafood Pies and the selection of Salads includes Melon and Smoked Salmon with Citrus Mayonnaise, Warm Chicken and Bacon as well as Dressed Crab.