Penny Theatre New

The Penny Theatre is a truly unique pub located on Northgate, at the edge of the King’s Mile in the centre of Canterbury. Popular with locals, students, and tourists alike, this characterful venue offers a rare opportunity to run a pub in Canterbury that combines historic charm with modern trading potential.

Dating back to the 18th century, this Grade II listed building is full of old beams, original features, and a quirky, meandering layout that makes every visit memorable. The site itself is double-fronted, formed from two historic timber-framed buildings joined together. One side houses a small Regency theatre – now an integral part of the pub – which transforms into a vibrant live music venue every Friday and Saturday night thanks to its stage, pool table, and darts setup. With a late licence until 3am at weekends, The Penny Theatre is well placed to capture Canterbury’s late-night trade.

Inside, the pub offers a variety of trading areas with around 120 covers spread across four distinct zones. On one side, guests enter into a welcoming bar area leading into a narrow seating section with booth seating, a trade kitchen to the rear, and access to the garden. On the other side, a cosy front section flows into the theatre room, which becomes the hub of entertainment at weekends.

The outdoor patio garden provides additional capacity, with four covered booths (each with its own TV) and picnic bench seating for around 60 covers – perfect for summer trade and sports screenings.

The Penny Theatre trades steadily throughout the day, serving food and drinks from lunch until early evening, before shifting into a lively weekend destination built around live music, DJs, and events. Its fully fitted trade kitchen not only supports the bar dining offer but also operates successfully as a “Dark Kitchen,” giving future operators additional revenue flexibility.

For the right publican, this is a standout opportunity to take on a historic, high-profile pub tenancy in Canterbury that combines food, drink, music, and events in one of Kent’s most vibrant cathedral cities.

There is a 2 bed manager's flat, with a lounge, kitchen and bathroom - access is only via the pub.