A Visitor's Introduction to Canterbury, Kent

Why is Canterbury Worth a Visit?

Canterbury is worth visiting for its unrivalled historical significance, being a centre of religious pilgrimage for over a thousand years. The towering Canterbury Cathedral, the seat of the Archbishop of Canterbury, remains the city’s focal point, but there’s so much more to explore beyond this iconic landmark. The city is home to a variety of well-preserved medieval architecture, including St Augustine’s Abbey and St Martin’s Church, part of the city’s UNESCO World Heritage Site. Alongside its historical treasures, Canterbury offers a lively modern culture with excellent restaurants, independent shops, and a vibrant arts scene.

The city’s proximity to London, combined with its rich heritage and scenic surroundings, makes it an ideal destination for both day trips and longer stays. Whether you’re exploring the historic streets, relaxing in its parks, or enjoying a boat tour along the River Stour, Canterbury provides a captivating blend of the past and present.

Canterbury Highlights: Things to See and Do in Canterbury

1. Canterbury Cathedral
The heart of the city and the most famous of Canterbury’s landmarks, Canterbury Cathedral is one of the oldest Christian churches in England and the mother church of the Anglican Communion. The cathedral’s stunning Gothic architecture, magnificent stained-glass windows, and rich history make it a must-visit. Inside, you can see the spot where Archbishop Thomas Becket was murdered in 1170, a key event in English religious history. Don’t miss the cloisters and the Chapter House, which offer peaceful spots for reflection.

2. St Augustine’s Abbey
Another major part of Canterbury’s UNESCO World Heritage Site, St Augustine’s Abbey was founded in 597 AD by St Augustine, the first Archbishop of Canterbury. Though now in ruins, the abbey remains an atmospheric site to explore, with remnants of monastic buildings and crypts. It was once one of the most important religious sites in medieval England. Today, visitors can wander through the extensive grounds and learn about the abbey’s history in the small museum on site.

3. Westgate Towers and Gardens
Westgate Towers is the largest surviving medieval gatehouse in England, and it offers a fascinating glimpse into Canterbury’s defences. Visitors can climb to the top for fantastic views over the city and the surrounding countryside. The museum inside the towers explores the history of the city’s medieval walls, and the peaceful Westgate Gardens, located along the River Stour, provide a perfect spot for a picnic or leisurely stroll after visiting the towers.

4. River Stour Boat Tours
One of the best ways to experience Canterbury’s scenic beauty is by taking a River Stour boat tour. These guided tours offer a relaxing way to see the city from a different perspective, as you glide along the peaceful river past historic buildings, quaint gardens, and wildlife. The knowledgeable boatmen provide fascinating insights into the history of the river and the city, making it both a tranquil and informative experience.

5. Canterbury Roman Museum
For those interested in Canterbury’s Roman past, the Canterbury Roman Museum is a hidden gem. The museum is built around the remains of an original Roman town house and features impressive mosaics, artefacts, and exhibits on Roman life in Canterbury, which was then known as Durovernum Cantiacorum. Visitors can explore a recreated Roman marketplace and learn about daily life in the ancient town.

6. St Martin’s Church
Another key part of Canterbury’s religious heritage, St Martin’s Church is the oldest parish church in continuous use in the English-speaking world. Its origins date back to Roman times, and it played a crucial role in the early Christianisation of England. The simple yet atmospheric church is a peaceful place to visit, and its tranquil churchyard offers beautiful views over the city.

7. Dane John Gardens
If you’re looking for a green space to relax, Dane John Gardens is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. Located within the old city walls, the gardens feature flower beds, a maze, and a small hill with a memorial, from which you can enjoy panoramic views over the city. During the summer months, the park hosts outdoor events and concerts, making it a lively hub of activity.

8. Canterbury Heritage Museum
The Canterbury Heritage Museum, located in a medieval building that was once a hospital, offers an engaging exploration of the city’s history. Exhibits cover Canterbury’s past from prehistoric times through to the modern day, with a particular focus on its medieval and Tudor heritage. The museum also features displays on Canterbury’s famous inhabitants, including the creators of Bagpuss and The Clangers, making it a quirky and enjoyable visit for families.

9. Whitstable and Herne Bay
For those staying in Canterbury for a few days, the nearby coastal towns of Whitstable and Herne Bay are just a short drive or bus ride away. Whitstable is famous for its oysters, vibrant arts scene, and shingle beaches, while Herne Bay offers traditional seaside charm with its pier, amusement arcades, and long promenade. Both towns are perfect for a relaxing day by the sea and are easily accessible from Canterbury.

Practical Advice for Visitors

Getting There:
Canterbury is well connected by both road and rail. If travelling by train, there are two main stations: Canterbury East, which connects to London Victoria, and Canterbury West, which offers faster services to London St Pancras (under an hour). By car, Canterbury is easily accessible via the M2 and A2 from London. There are several car parks around the city, including Longport Car Park and Queningate Car Park, though it's advisable to use the park-and-ride facilities during busy periods to avoid city centre congestion.

Parking:
If you’re driving into Canterbury, using one of the Park and Ride sites (such as New Dover Road or Sturry Road) is highly recommended, as parking in the city centre can be limited. The park-and-ride services are convenient and affordable, with buses running regularly into the heart of the city. For those wanting to park centrally, car parks like Whitefriars and Castle Street are well-located but can fill up quickly, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Dining:
Canterbury has a thriving food scene, with plenty of independent restaurants, cafés, and pubs to choose from. The Goods Shed, located next to Canterbury West Station, is a must-visit for foodies, offering farm-to-table dining and an indoor market selling local produce. For a classic British meal, The Parrot is a cosy pub housed in one of the oldest buildings in Canterbury, while Deeson's British Restaurant focuses on locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. For something sweet, head to Patisserie Valerie for afternoon tea or visit one of the many cafés in the city for a quick bite.

Shopping:
Canterbury’s city centre is a shopper’s paradise, with a mix of high street stores and independent boutiques. Whitefriars Shopping Centre is the city’s main retail hub, featuring a range of popular brands, while the medieval streets around the King's Mile are filled with independent shops, antique stores, and galleries. Be sure to visit The Beaney House of Art & Knowledge, which combines a museum, art gallery, and library, for unique gifts and art exhibitions.

When to Visit:
Canterbury is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is in the spring and summer months when the gardens are in full bloom, and the weather is pleasant for outdoor exploration. Autumn also brings a lovely atmosphere, with the surrounding countryside bursting into colour. Winter is a quieter time to visit, but the city’s Christmas markets and light displays add a festive charm. The city can get busy during school holidays and weekends, so if you prefer a more peaceful experience, consider visiting during the week or in the shoulder seasons.

Local Events:
Canterbury hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including the Canterbury Festival, a two-week celebration of the arts that takes place every October, featuring music, theatre, dance, and more. Christmas in Canterbury is also a special time, with the Cathedral and city streets decked out in festive lights, and a traditional Christmas market held in Whitefriars Square. In spring, St Augustine’s Parade commemorates the arrival of St Augustine and is an important cultural event for the city.

Exploring Beyond Canterbury:
If you have time to explore beyond Canterbury, Kent offers plenty of other attractions. Leeds Castle, often referred to as the "loveliest castle in the world," is just a short drive away and makes for a fantastic day trip. Howletts Wild Animal Park, located just outside the city, is perfect for families and animal lovers. For coastal views, head to the White Cliffs of Dover, where you can enjoy breathtaking walks along the famous cliffs and explore Dover’s historic castle.