The Cannon Café — Cafe in Chatham

The Cannon Café in Chatham sits within Fort Amherst on Khartoum Road. Originally a pantry for military use, it has operated as an accessible cafe since at least 1808 and retains its Napoleonic-era architecture. It serves traditional afternoon tea with scones topped with jam and cream, set against historic fort walls. The venue offers indoor or outdoor seating during the afternoons, drawing regular visitors from Chatham for relaxed meals.

The Cannon Café is located within Fort Amherst, a site rooted in Napoleonic-era military planning and listed as Grade II. Originally serving as a garrison pantry, it has evolved into an accessible cafe with preserved historic architecture. Natural light enters through large windows set into thick walls, creating a moderate noise level ideal for conversation or reading. Its continued role as a social space within the fort's legacy connects past military use to modern community gatherings.

The Cannon Café in Chatham focuses on tea with traditional afternoon tea featuring scones topped with jam and cream. Guests usually visit during mid-afternoon for meals in indoor or outdoor seating, making it suitable for families or solo reading breaks. The venue supports inclusive access with step-free entry, wheelchair-friendly layout, and accessible toilets, key features that align with its role in hosting festive events and regular gatherings at Fort Amherst.