Canterbury in Kent, England – What to See and Fun Things to Do

Edson Amorina Jr

10 months ago

Canterbury in Kent, England - What to See and Fun Things to Do

Travel guide to Canterbury in Kent, England, with tips on how to get there, accommodation, tourist attractions, guided tours, where to eat and practical information.

Canterbury is a historic city in the southeast of England, famous for its cathedral, culture and heritage. It’s a great destination for a day trip or a weekend getaway, with plenty of attractions, activities and food options to suit every taste.

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Now, let’s go to Canterbury in Kent, England!

Brief History of Canterbury in Kent, England

Canterbury has a rich and fascinating history that dates back to the Roman times. It was an important center of Christianity, and the site of the murder of Thomas Becket, the Archbishop of Canterbury, in 1170. The cathedral, which is the oldest and most impressive in England, was built to honor him and became a pilgrimage destination.

Canterbury also has a medieval heritage, with many old buildings, walls and gates that still stand today. You can learn more about the city’s history at the Canterbury Heritage Museum, the Roman Museum and the Canterbury Tales attraction.

Where is and How to go to Canterbury in Kent, England

Canterbury is located in the county of Kent, about 60 miles (97 km) southeast of London. It is easy to reach by car, train or bus from various parts of the country.

The bus journey takes about two hours from London Victoria Coach Station.There are also direct buses from other cities like Brighton, Oxford and Cambridge. If you drive, you can take the M2 or M20 motorways and follow the signs to Canterbury. There are several car parks in the city center, but they can get busy during peak times.

The nearest airport is London Gatwick, which is about 70 miles (113 km) away.

You can also take a ferry from Dover or Folkestone, which are about 20 miles (32 km) away. Once you are in Canterbury, you can get around by walking, cycling or using public transport. There are also guided tours and hop-on hop-off buses that can take you to the main attractions.

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What are the best times to visit Canterbury in Kent, England

Canterbury is a year-round destination, but some seasons are more pleasant than others. Spring and summer are the best times to visit, as the weather is warm and sunny, and the flowers are in bloom. You can enjoy outdoor activities like walking, cycling or boating along the River Stour. Or relax in one of the many parks and gardens.

Autumn is also a good time to visit, as the city is less crowded and the foliage is colorful. Winter can be cold and wet, but it has its charm too. You can see the cathedral lit up at night, or visit the Christmas market and ice rink.

**Where to stay in Canterbury in Kent, England – Best Areas and Region (Best Resort, hotel, hostel and Bed & Breakfast)**

Canterbury has a range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. If you want to stay in the heart of the city, you can choose from several hotels, hostels and bed & breakfasts that are close to the main attractions and amenities. Some of the best ones are The Falstaff Hotel, The Pilgrims Hotel and The Millers Arms Inn. If you prefer a more rural setting, you can stay in one of the many cottages, farms or campsites that are located in the surrounding countryside. Some of the best ones are The Old Dairy Cottage, The Hop Farm Country Park and The Willows Campsite.

Canterbury offers a variety of accommodation options for different budgets and tastes. You can choose from luxury hotels, cozy bed and breakfasts, charming cottages or budget-friendly hostels. Some of the best areas to stay in Canterbury are:

City center: This is where you will find most of the attractions, shops, restaurants and nightlife. You can stay in historic buildings or modern hotels that offer comfort and convenience.
Outskirts: This is where you will find more peaceful and scenic locations, surrounded by nature or countryside. You can stay in quaint villages or rural farms that offer charm and authenticity.
Coast: This is where you will find some of the best beaches and seaside towns in Kent. You can stay in resorts or guesthouses that offer views and activities.

Some of the best places to stay in Canterbury are:

ABode Canterbury: This is a 4-star hotel located in the heart of the city, close to the cathedral and other attractions. It offers stylish rooms, a restaurant, a bar and a spa.
The Millers Arms Inn: This is a 3-star inn located near the river Stour, within walking distance from the city center. It offers cozy rooms, a pub, a garden and a terrace.
Greyfriars Lodge Canterbury: Home to a beautiful 12th-century chapel and gardens, Greyfriars Lodge Canterbury is set within the very center of historic Canterbury.

There are various accommodation options in hotels, hostels and inns, be sure to check them out at Booking.com page.

What to do in Canterbury in Kent, England

Canterbury has something for everyone, whether you’re interested in history, culture or nature. You can explore the city’s landmarks, visit some of the museums and galleries that showcase local art and history.

If you want to enjoy some fresh air and greenery, you can take a walk along the city walls or through Westgate Gardens. You can also join a guided tour or a river cruise that will show you around the city from a different perspective.

Canterbury has plenty of things to do for all ages and interests. Some suggestions to include in your itinerary are:

Visit the Canterbury Cathedral: This is the most famous attraction in Canterbury, and one of the most impressive cathedrals in Europe. You can admire its architecture, see its stained glass windows, explore its crypts and cloisters, and learn about its history.
Explore the Canterbury Tales: This is an interactive attraction that recreates the stories of Chaucer’s pilgrims who traveled from London to Canterbury. You can listen to their tales, see their costumes and props, and experience their medieval life.
Discover the Roman Museum: This is an underground museum that showcases the remains of a Roman townhouse that was discovered beneath Canterbury. You can see the mosaics, the hypocaust, the artifacts and the models that illustrate the Roman way of life.
Enjoy the Westgate Gardens: This is a beautiful park that stretches along the river Stour, with flowers, trees, bridges and sculptures. You can stroll, picnic, play or take a boat ride on the river.
Shop at the Whitefriars: This is a modern shopping center that offers a variety of shops, cafes, restaurants and entertainment. You can find everything from fashion to books to electronics to gifts.

Suggestions of touristic attractions, activities and guided tours in Canterbury in Kent, England:

Top 10 attractions in Canterbury in Kent, England

Some of the best tourist attractions and things to do in Canterbury in Kent, England, are:

Canterbury Tales: This is a fun and interactive attraction that brings to life the stories of Geoffrey Chaucer, the father of English literature. You can join a group of pilgrims on their journey from London to Canterbury, and listen to their tales of love, adventure and comedy.
Westgate Gardens: These are beautiful gardens along the River Stour, where you can enjoy a relaxing stroll or a picnic. You can also hop on a boat and take a scenic cruise along the river, passing by historic buildings and bridges.
Canterbury Roman Museum: This is a fascinating museum that showcases the remains of a Roman townhouse, complete with mosaics, pottery and coins. You can also learn about the history and culture of Roman Britain, and see how the people lived, worked and played.
St Augustine’s Abbey: This is another UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the place where Christianity was first established in England. It was founded by St Augustine in 597 AD, and was once a powerful monastery. You can explore the ruins of the abbey church, cloister and other buildings, and visit the museum that displays artefacts and relics.
Canterbury Cathedral: This is the most iconic landmark of the city, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s the seat of the Archbishop of Canterbury, and the place where Thomas Becket was murdered in 1170. You can admire the stunning architecture, stained glass windows and tombs of kings and queens inside.

Howletts Wild Animal Park: This is a popular attraction for animal lovers, where you can see over 400 animals from around the world, including elephants, tigers, gorillas and monkeys. You can also take part in animal encounters, feeding sessions and keeper talks.
Marlowe Theatre: This is a modern and stylish theatre that hosts a variety of shows, from musicals and comedy to drama and dance. It’s named after Christopher Marlowe, the famous playwright who was born in Canterbury.
Canterbury Castle: This is one of the oldest Norman castles in England, dating back to the 11th century. It was once a royal residence and a prison, but now it’s a ruin that you can climb and explore.
The Beaney House of Art and Knowledge: This is a museum and art gallery that houses a collection of paintings, sculptures, ceramics and other objects. You can also see exhibitions on various themes, such as local history, natural history and world cultures.
Whitefriars Shopping Centre: This is a modern and spacious shopping centre that offers a range of shops, cafes and restaurants. You can find everything from fashion and beauty to books and gadgets.

Tip itineraries for 1 day to visit Canterbury in Kent, England

If you only have one day to visit Canterbury in Kent, England, here are some suggested itineraries to make the most of your time.

Culture lovers: Start your day with a visit to Canterbury Cathedral, where you can marvel at the Gothic architecture and learn about its history. Then head to Canterbury Tales, where you can immerse yourself in the medieval world of Chaucer’s stories. After lunch, explore the Canterbury Roman Museum, where you can see the remains of a Roman townhouse and discover how the Romans lived. End your day with a show at the Marlowe Theatre, where you can enjoy some entertainment.
Nature lovers: Begin your day with a walk through Westgate Gardens, where you can admire the flowers and trees along the river. Then hop on a boat and take a cruise along the River Stour, where you can see historic landmarks and wildlife. After lunch, visit Howletts Wild Animal Park, where you can see exotic animals from around the world. End your day with a picnic in St Augustine’s Abbey, where you can relax among the ruins.
History lovers: Start your day with a visit to St Augustine’s Abbey, where you can learn about the origins of Christianity in England. Then head to Canterbury Castle, where you can climb the towers and walls of the Norman fortress. After lunch, explore Canterbury Cathedral, where you can see the tombs of kings and queens and the site of Becket’s murder. End your day with a visit to The Beaney House of Art and Knowledge, where you can see artefacts and exhibitions on various topics.

Official Guided Walking Tour – Explore the historic city of Canterbury on a guided walking tour. Hear tales of murder, ghosts, artists, and royalty from your qualified Green Badge Guide as you stroll through the medieval lanes and magnificent Cathedral Precincts.

Where to eat in Canterbury in Kent – Tips for bars and restaurants

Canterbury has plenty of options for foodies, whether you’re looking for traditional British fare, international cuisine or something in between.

Here are some tips for bars and restaurants in Canterbury in Kent.

The Goods Shed: This is a farmers’ market and restaurant that offers fresh and local produce, meat, cheese, bread and more. You can shop for ingredients, or enjoy a meal at the restaurant, which serves seasonal dishes with a modern twist.
The Ambrette: This is a fine dining restaurant that specializes in Indian fusion cuisine. You can sample dishes such as lamb shank rogan josh, tandoori sea bass and coconut rice pudding, all made with local and organic ingredients.
The Foundry Brew Pub: This is a pub and brewery that serves craft beers and ciders, as well as pub classics such as burgers, pies and fish and chips. You can also take a tour of the brewery and learn how the drinks are made.
The Old Buttermarket: This is a cosy and historic pub that dates back to the 17th century. It’s located near Canterbury Cathedral, and offers a range of drinks and food, such as sandwiches, salads, soups and desserts.
The Veg Box Cafe: This is a vegetarian and vegan cafe that serves healthy and delicious food, such as salads, wraps, curries and cakes. You can also enjoy smoothies, juices and coffee.

Key tips and practical information of Canterbury in Kent, England

Canterbury is a city that’s easy to get to and get around, but there are some things you should know before you go. Here are some key tips and practical information of Canterbury in Kent, England.

How to get there: Canterbury is well connected by train, bus and car. You can take a train from London Victoria or London St Pancras to Canterbury East or Canterbury West stations, which takes about an hour. You can also take a bus from London Victoria Coach Station to Canterbury Bus Station, which takes about two hours. If you’re driving, you can take the M2 motorway and follow the signs to Canterbury.
How to get around: Canterbury is a compact city that’s easy to explore on foot or by bike. You can also use the Park and Ride service, which allows you to park your car at one of the four sites around the city and take a bus to the centre. You can also take a taxi or use the local buses for longer distances.
When to go: Canterbury is a year-round destination, but the best time to go depends on what you want to see and do. Spring and summer are ideal for enjoying the gardens, parks and outdoor activities. Autumn and winter are perfect for experiencing the festive atmosphere, markets and events.
What to pack: Canterbury has a temperate climate, but it can be unpredictable. You should pack layers of clothing, as well as a raincoat and umbrella. You should also bring comfortable shoes, as you’ll be walking a lot. Don’t forget your camera, as there are plenty of photo opportunities.
Where to stay: Canterbury has a range of accommodation options, from hotels and B&Bs to hostels and campsites. You can choose from historic buildings, modern facilities or rural settings. Some of the popular places to stay are The Falstaff Hotel, The Millers Arms Inn, Kipps Backpackers Hostel and Canterbury Camping.

Canterbury is a historic city in the southeast of England, famous for its cathedral and medieval heritage. It’s a great destination for a day trip or a weekend getaway, with plenty of attractions, activities and food options to suit every taste.

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