Things To Do
in Canterbury
Canterbury is a historic cathedral city in Kent, England, anchored by the majestic Canterbury Cathedral along the River Stour. Its pedestrian-friendly lanes, timber-framed houses, and ancient walls mingle with the lively energy of students from two universities. The city center is rich with medieval churches, Roman ruins, and cosy pubs offering quintessential British fare, while easy day trips reveal coastlines and countryside.
This compact destination rewards slow exploration, with architecture, culture, and riverside strolls at every turn.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Canterbury and check into your accommodation. Take a leisurely stroll through the picturesque streets, absorbing the rich history and stunning architecture that the city has to offer. Visit the Canterbury Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site, to admire its gothic beauty and learn about its significance in English history.
Head to the city's vibrant High Street, where you can enjoy lunch at one of the many quaint cafes. Explore the Canterbury Roman Museum and discover the remnants of Roman Britain that lie beneath the modern city. Spend some time shopping for local crafts and souvenirs to remember your trip.
Enjoy dinner at a traditional pub, sampling local ales and hearty dishes. Afterward, take a ghost tour of Canterbury, where you can hear spooky tales of the city's haunted past. End your night with a stroll along the River Stour, enjoying the peaceful ambiance under the stars.
Start your day with a visit to the Westgate Towers, where you can climb to the top for panoramic views of the city. Explore the surrounding gardens and learn about the history of the ancient gatehouse. Don't miss the opportunity to capture beautiful photos of this iconic structure.
After lunch, immerse yourself in the fascinating world of Chaucer at the Canterbury Tales visitor attraction. Step back in time and experience the stories of medieval England through informative displays and interactive exhibits. Spend the rest of the afternoon visiting the nearby St. Augustine's Abbey, reflecting on the origins of Christianity in England.
Have dinner at a restaurant that offers a taste of Canterbury’s local cuisine, perhaps trying fresh seafood from the nearby coast. Attend a performance at the Marlowe Theatre, where you can catch a play, musical, or concert, connecting with the vibrant arts scene of the city. Conclude your evening by enjoying a nightcap at a local bar, soaking in the atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-15 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $3-5 |
| 🚆Single public transport ride | $2-4 |
| 🏨1-night hotel in city center | $70-120 |
| 🍽️Three-course dinner for two (mid-range restaurant) | $40-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Abundant medieval and Gothic architecture, especially Canterbury Cathedral
- Compact, walkable city center with many cafés, pubs, and markets
- Excellent base for coastal trips to Whitstable and the Kent Downs
- Strong university presence adds vitality and cultural events
- Rich history from Roman times through the medieval era
- Can be crowded in peak tourist seasons, especially around major attractions
- Some restaurants and pubs can be pricier in the center
- Limited large-scale nightlife compared with bigger cities
- Parking can be challenging in the busiest areas
Places to Visit in Canterbury
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic Gothic architecture, soaring arches, and quiet cloisters—perfect for iconic shots at dawn or dusk.
Lush riverside lawns, reflections on the water, and colorful blooms in season.
Historic timber-framed facades and charming shopfronts along medieval lanes.
Like stepping back in time—ramparts and viewpoints offering sweeping views of the city.
Atmospheric stone arches and overgrown grounds ideal for moody, historic compositions.
Food in Canterbury
Canterbury Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fresh oysters from the nearby coast, best enjoyed raw or lightly grilled at seafood spots along Whitstable Bay.
Must-Try!
Classic British staple available in many coastal and inland eateries; look for cod or haddock battered and fried to crisp perfection.
Hearty pub pie with tender beef and rich gravy, a staple of Kentish pub menus.
Scones with clotted cream and jam, typically enjoyed in tea rooms around the city center.
Seasonal dessert made with local fruit, often served warm with custard.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant food hall at Canterbury West station offering local produce, prepared foods, and farmers' markets.
Weekly market in the Market Square featuring fresh produce, cheeses, baked goods, and street snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Queue patiently in shops and public transport; a polite greeting and 'please'/'thank you' go a long way.
Keep voices down and dress modestly when visiting Canterbury Cathedral and other religious sites.
Afternoon tea and pub visits are social rituals—join in politely and avoid loud behavior late at night in residential areas.
Safety
Tipping in Canterbury
Ensure a smooth experience
In many restaurants a service charge may be included; if not, a tip of 10-15% is customary for good service. In pubs and casual cafés, rounding up or a small tip is common.
Cards (including contactless and mobile wallets) are widely accepted; cash is still useful in smaller venues and markets. ATMs are readily available.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with long daylight hours; expect crowds around the Cathedral and Market Square. Pack water, wear sun protection, and explore outdoor terraces early or late in the day.
Milder weather with colorful foliage; great for walking tours and riverside photography. Markets and pubs offer seasonal fare and warmth.
Crisp air and occasional rain; indoor museums, galleries, and pubs become cozy refuges. Festive lights in December add a special charm.
Blooms across gardens and streets; gentle weather makes walking and cycling pleasant. Fresh market produce returns in abundance.
Canterbury at Night
Hiking in Canterbury
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Chalk-downs with panoramic views over Kent; suitable for a half-day hike.
Leisurely trails along the River Stour with countryside scenery.
Flat, marshland trails ideal for birdwatching and tranquil walks.
Airports
How to reach Canterbury by plane.
Major international hub about 1.5–2 hours by train or car; direct connections to many destinations in Europe.
Large international airport about 2 hours by high-speed rail or car; extensive flight options.
Another major hub roughly 2 hours away by train or road; good for European routes.
Smaller regional airport in Kent with limited services; many travelers fly into London and transfer to Canterbury by train or bus.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Two universities contribute a vibrant student population and frequent cultural events.
Long-term residents with deep historical ties to the city and surrounding countryside.
A mix of families visiting historic sites and international travelers drawn by the cathedral and coastal day trips.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Local clubs and university teams provide matches and social leagues in and around Canterbury.
Kent County Cricket Club’s St Lawrence Ground is a historic venue for first-class cricket just outside Canterbury in the region.
Local clubs and school teams offer opportunities to watch or participate in rugby union.
Popular due to the North Downs and Stour countryside nearby.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Canterbury.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most pubs and cafés offer salads, veggie burgers, mushroom pies, and seasonal vegetable dishes; ask for options and dairy-free adaptations.
Vegan-friendly options are available in many venues; look for plant-based milks and vegan starters or mains.
Many places can accommodate gluten-free diets; inform staff and check for cross-contamination in shared fryers.