Originally a private Georgian residence, The Swallow Chaucer Hotel in Canterbury, Kent, England, stands directly opposite of Canterbury's ancient walls, a place regarded as the long time spiritual center of England. Canterbury's Cathedral, the seat of the archbishop, is also within walking distance of the hotel. Dover Castle, known as the "Key to England" with its 2,000 year history, sits 13 miles away. Gatwick Airport is 72 miles from the hotel. <br> The Swallow Chaucer Hotel's main restaurant, 63 Ivy Lane, serves contemporary British cuisine with a French influence and features an extensive wine list. The less formal Pilgrim's Bar features a brassiere style menu and summer seating on the terrace. <br><br> Other amenities at The Swallow Chaucer Hotel include complimentary parking, dry cleaning services, limited room service and conference rooms for events and meetings. <br><br> Each of the 42 traditional, brightly decorated guestrooms is named after a character from the works of Geoffrey Chaucer, the English poet regarded as the greatest literary figure of medieval England. All guestrooms include dark wood furnishings, cable televisions and direct dial telephones. Dial up Internet access is available upon request and subject to guestroom availability.