As a UNESCO world heritage site and a jewel in Kent’s historic crown, there’s little wonder why Canterbury is one of England’s most visited cities.
Made famous by its impressive cathedral, imposing castle and the country´s oldest church, there’s no shortage of great things to see and do in Canterbury, with thousands flocking to the magnificent medieval city every year. If you’re coming to Kent – aka the Garden of England – and would like to explore the city during your stay, we’ve picked out some of the most unique things to see and do within its ancient walls.
Marvel at a world-famous cathedral
Known as the mother church for the Anglican Communion and seat of the Archbishop of Canterbury, Canterbury Cathedral lives up to its expectations. It’s been a place of worship for more than 1500 years and is one of the oldest, and most significant, cathedrals in England, with its beautifully carved spires and hand-painted stained-glass windows. A visit to Canterbury isn’t complete without visiting this breath-taking gothic structure that, since its beginning in 1070, has survived fires, restoration and the threat of modernisation. Besides, if you’re into mysteries, this is also the death place of Thomas Becket, who was killed here by knights of Henry II. The most visited attraction in Kent is an absolute must-see for a reason.
Cathedral House, 11 The Precincts / Mon-Sat 9am-5pm Sun 11.30am-5pm
Bring literature to life on a guided tour
Arguably the city´s most beloved attraction, the Canterbury Tales brings literature to life through a costumed guide of Geoffrey Chaucer´s famous collection of pilgrimage stories. As you follow your guide to walk alongside the pilgrims, you’ll find yourself in the midst of their storytelling contest as they make their way from London to Canterbury to visit the shrine of Saint Thomas Becket. You’ll navigate your own way through the recreated medieval scenes as five of the pilgrims’ tales of infidelity, love, intrigue, courtship and death are brought to life in front of you. Legend has it that the prize for the best storyteller of the pilgrimage was a free dinner paid for by the losers. This is a great way to inspire a fun new road trip game for the family.
St Margaret´s Street / April-Aug 10am-5pm daily, Sept-Oct 10am-4pm daily, Nov-March 10am-4pm Weds-Sun
Step back in time to the Roman period
Walking around Canterbury can often feel like exploring a living museum, and nowhere is this more the case than at the Canterbury Roman Museum. Located beneath the city street, it offers a captivating glimpse into the area’s ancient past, showcasing Roman artifacts discovered during excavations, including mosaics, pottery and everyday items. Among the museum’s highlights is a preserved Roman floor mosaic, which provides an insight into the wealth and craftsmanship of the period.
11A Longmarket, Butchery Lane / Mon-Sun 10am-5pm
Explore a wonky bookshop
Most famously known for its crooked exterior and delightfully wonky layout, one can wonder how St John Boys House is still standing after all these years. The 17th century, three-storey half-timbered house with its unusual slant makes it the perfect stop-off for an Instagram photo-op. But don’t leave just yet – St John Boys House’s real secret is what lays within; a second-hand bookshop solely run by volunteers to earn money for those living on the streets in Canterbury and Kent. The bookshop, named Catching Lives Books, is entirely funded by donations, and houses an array of well-kept classics, whether you’re a lover of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice or a Charles Dickens fan (he even wrote about the house in 1849). An Instagram hot-spot with a worthy cause? What’s not to love?
28 Palace Street / Mon-Sun 10am-5pm
Watch the sunset from a scenic garden
Take a romantic stroll through the historic Dane John Gardens at the heart of Canterbury. The gardens, more famously known as a former Roman cemetery, were turned into a civic park some time between 1790 and 1803, having served as a motte-and-bailey castle for nearly seven centuries. In the spring, the park overflows with tulips and impressive white terrace houses delicately surround the many rainbow-coloured flowerbeds. The city´s best kept secret? Bring a bottle of cheap wine and go to one of the gardens´ viewpoints at sunset to see Canterbury bathed in warm sunlight. Step aside Nicholas Sparks, because this is more romantic than The Notebook.
Mon-Sun 4am-10pm
Get your salsa on
Yup. You read that right. The Cuban is not only a beloved spot for Canterbury’s many students, with its tapas menu and its own cocktail bar serving everything from fresh Mojitos to tequila drinks, it’s also the venue for the town’s Latin dance nights. Every Saturday between 8pm and 10pm, the bar invites a live salsa band to perform, encouraging their many loyal visitors to partake in the Latin extravaganza. Don’t worry though, no prior dance skills are required. At the Cuban it’s all about the fun, and why not sign up for their cocktail master classes while you’re at it? Dangerously good mojitos guaranteed.
41b, 43 High Street / Fri-Sat 9pm-3am Mon-Tues & Thurs 11pm-3am Weds 10.30pm-3am Close Sun
Sample culinary offerings at a local farmers market
Kent is known as the Garden of England, with blooming nature and delicious local produce, and The Goods Shed farmers market and food hall has it all. Here you can buy fresh peonies to decorate your windowsill, gaze longingly at the ruby red Kent strawberries, taste some of the county’s finest cheese, buy fresh fish and meat from the butchery or fish stall, drink delicious cocktails or try their freshly made pasta at their Italian restaurant Caruso Pastificio. Located inside an old red brick railway goods shed, the market was converted into a food space in 2002 by farmer´s daughter Susanna Sait, who dreamt of creating a market community. Ingredients are always fresh and local, usually picked the same morning having travelled only yards, and Spanish-born chef Rafael Sanchez has turned the Good Shed´s restaurant into a destination in its own right. A true gem of a find, and the perfect place for every foodie visitor to Canterbury.
Station Road West / Tues-Sat 9am-6pm Sun 10am-4pm Closed Mon
Hunt for bargains at a bazaar
Open on the first Saturday of every month, the Courtyard Bazaar brings vintage glam to the people of Canterbury. Whether you’re looking for the perfect 60s dress for a themed party, a glamorous coat to channel your inner Audrey Hepburn or simply want to roam around, this vintage and handmade market is a great stop for all shopaholics and fashion-loverse. You might even strike some great deals too, if you’re lucky.
St Peter´s Street / First Saturday of the month, 10am-5pm
Take a river tour
The old city walls, first built by the Romans between 270 and 280 AD, are surrounded by the vivid canals twirling their way through Canterbury. On a sunny day, it’s beautiful to follow the canals down to the old Stour watermill at Mill Lane. The river is also a great way to explore the city, and Canterbury Historic River Tours is a city favourite that captures the imagination of adults and children alike. Float on a boat or punt down the river and witness Canterbury from a completely new perspective. The tours offer a unique vantage point for enjoying the city´s most stunning architecture and historic buildings. If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of Canterbury City Centre while still exploring the heart of the city in a way only accessible by the waterways, then this is a great choice. All aboard captain!
Kings Bridge / Mon-Sun 10am-5pm
Get your daily caffeine-fix
Like in most cities, the people of Canterbury love their coffee, and inside a narrow house on St Margaret´s Street you’ll find the charming artisan café, The Micro Roastery. This independent coffee shop is a city favourite and roasts their own coffee in small quantities in order to serve the freshest coffee to its customers, with plenty of aroma and flavour. Though it has to be said, their Chai Tea Latte shouldn’t be underestimated. Whether you’re meeting up with an old friend or going on your first coffee date, this charming café brings the perfect atmosphere for any occasion.
4 St Margaret´s Street / Mon-Fri 7.30am-6pm Sat 8am-6pm Sun 9am-5pm
Visit Houdini’s, a magic bar
Magic meets mixology at this quirky watering hole situated slap bang on Canterbury High Street. As you sip on your drink, a professionally trained magician-cum-bartender might appear right at your table, performing mind-bending tricks that leave you questioning reality. The drinks menu is just as enchanting, with inventive concoctions that add a touch of wonder to the experience. Whether you’re a sorcery enthusiast or just looking for somewhere different for a night out, Houdini’s is a must-visit.
6 St Peter’s Street / Weds-Sun 11am-11pm Mon-Tues 4pm-11pm
Level up your video game skills
It might sound off-the radar to play computer games when you’re at the heart of one of the historic centres of England, but this retro video games emporium is a worthy destination on its own. Level Up Games, based just off Canterbury High Street, is a dream world for any gamer with its collection of retro video games including everything from Sonic to Pokémon. The nostalgia-fuelled shop sells games, but if you have a goldmine of a collection that you want to share, this is also the place to trade. Fancy a friendly battle of Mario Cart before dinner but don´t want to commit to the purchase? Don’tt fear – you can play any of these reminiscent titles with a visit to this magical shop.
40 Palace Street / Tues-Sat 11am-5pm Closed Sun-Mon