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Gastropub
Situated by the picturesque network of streets and alleyways that make up the Mill Place part of Chislehurst, this is an upmarket and inviting hillside pub with an intriguing history.
The warm and cosy interior is the work of world leading interior designer Martyn Lawrence Bullard (and featured on TV in "Million Dollar Decorators"). The theme is very traditional with tasteful décor based around the colours of the French flag.
The main bar area is divided into two rooms but with an open plan layout. The room facing the small bar is decked out with red walls, maroon carpet and black banquette seating, whereas the larger side room has more tables with maroon banquette seating. Maroon window drapes, framed prints and dark wood with fabric and gold-green foliage wallpaper complement the interior. The lighting is dim with additional candles providing a comfortable atmosphere. A discreet TV in the corner shows major sporting events.
Although the pub is geared up for dining, drinkers are still very welcome with up to three cask ales available. With a strong local following, the service is friendly and welcoming. The high quality food is very popular (booking advisable) with steak and seafood specialities as well as fish and chips. The menu also accommodates vegan and gluten-free dishes as well as daily specials and other offers.
The original coach house was refurbished in 2015 with the interior done out in an eclectic and opulent style with mirrors, chandeliers and candles. This now serves as both the Bistro and Function Room. Dining is available here Friday and Saturday 6 to 11 pm and Sunday 12 to 7 pm.
The courtyard itself is a quiet and picturesque enclosed area for outside drinking.
Named by the Sunday Express in 2021 as being one of the UK's top ten venues for its Sunday Roast.
The pub sign shows the French imperial eagle in commemoration.
Historic Interest
Originally dating from 1787, this pub was called the Windmill after the former windmill on Chislehurst Common and situated on the old main road from Bromley to Chislehurst (originally called Bromley Road, until Summer Hill was built in 1885 as a more direct road). The pub cellar was formerly used as a prison with cells when the adjacent courthouse was present in the 19th C. The pub was rebuilt in 1865 and later owned by the Dartford Brewery. Renamed in 1876 when the nearby windmill was dismantled and in honour of the exiled French Imperial Family (Emperor Napoleon III and Empress Eugenie). Eugenie and their son, Louis-Napoleon, the Prince Imperial came to live at nearby Camden Place in December 1870 with their entourage being lodged elsewhere, including at the pub. They were joined by Napoleon III upon his release from Germany in March 1871. Queen Victoria was a regular visitor, arriving by train to popular acclaim. It is rumoured that Napoleon III used to discreetly visit the pub and the barmaid, Catherine, was a mistress: The bar is still nicknamed "Catherine's Bar". Napoleon III died in January 1873 and his son Louis-Napoleon was killed in 1879 (the nearby monument is dedicated to his memory). It is believed that French government spies used to visit the pub and surrounding area, given the diplomatic negotiations being discussed in Camden Place (Queen Victoria was keen for the Prince Imperial to be recognised as Napoleon IV). It is also believed that the bar is indeed haunted ...
This Pub serves 2 changing beers and 1 regular beer.
Imperial Arms, Chislehurst
Changing beers typically include: Morland - Old Speckled Hen , Purity - Mad Goose
Sports TV
Lunchtime Meals
Evening Meals
Live Music
Garden
Family Friendly
Dog Friendly
Events
Function Room
Restaurant
Smoking
Wi Fi
Real Ale
Cask Marque
Love Cask Beer?
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