Smugglers Café & Bar – Music Filled Sandwich

Smugglers Records grew, like most wonderful things, out of a series of chance encounters in the small, musically rich seaside town of Deal.

From the humble beginnings of The Smugglers Sessions at the back of a pub to busking-led adventures across Europe; the ethos of Smugglers Records existed before the label did. Now twelve years old Smugglers has found its new home here in Sandwich.

The beer and music café opened in May 2019 and in its short existence has gained a regular clientele and many a flattering review. If the beer and music don’t charm you then the staff surely will it would appear.

CommunityAd sat down with Will from Smugglers who was equally as charming as his staff whilst he told us of his love of our town, informed us who we should be listening out for, and why we should all be popping into Smugglers.

So, Will, Smugglers Records have had some journey, haven’t they?

We have existed for 12 years. We started as a weekly music night above the Astor in Deal, morphed into a record label, record shop, Smugglers festival and now finally have our own place in Sandwich!

Smugglers are giving local musicians a platform which is great, and there are some great bands and musicians locally aren’t there?

We have some incredible talent in our area, for names your readers should make note of I’d go for Syd Arthur, Lapis Lazuili and Sam Brothers from Canterbury. Falle Nioke and Itchy Teeth from Margate. Will Varley, Gentlemen of Few, Cocos Lovers, The Maywaves , The Seklies (Manwoods female duo). The Allen Family (they have their family band but each player has his own band) from Deal and Sandwich.

There is just too many to list, we’re truly blessed!

Why do you think access to the arts is so important to a thriving community such as Sandwich?

All arts have the ability to bring us together. Music is our area of interest and I’ve always been fascinated by how powerful it is and how positive it is for a community. Sandwich has an amazing array of festivals and venues. Everyone supporting each other in these particularly divisive times is so important.

Tell us a little about Beer Club… we’ve heard there is cheese on offer as well, it sounds perfect!

Yes, we had 5 different craft beers – all different styles, some pretty crazy! Plus some local cheese. We also make our more unusual beers slightly cheaper for those feeling in a curious mood!

Why should readers consider popping into Smugglers?

A warm, cosy atmosphere with a huge selection of locally made beers (1.5 miles), mulled cider, mulled wine and lots of festive events!

What makes Sandwich such a lovely community to be a part of, especially this time of year?

It is a stunning town that changes with the seasons full of great restaurants, pubs, bars, shops and a very supportive community.

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