Canterbury holidays

Good to know for Canterbury holidays

Planning a holiday in Canterbury? This historic cathedral city in the heart of Kent combines fascinating heritage with a lively cultural scene and a relaxed pace. Whether you're visiting for a weekend break or a longer escape, here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your trip.

Getting to Canterbury

• By train: Canterbury is served by two train stations – Canterbury West and Canterbury East – both offering convenient access to the city centre. High-speed trains from London St Pancras International take under an hour, while services from London Victoria and Charing Cross take around 1 hour 30 minutes.

• By car: Canterbury is easily reached via the M2 or A2. While driving is convenient, parking in the centre is limited, so using one of the city’s Park and Ride facilities is a stress-free alternative.

• By bus or coach: National Express and other coach operators run regular services to Canterbury from cities across the UK. The main bus station is centrally located, making it easy to begin your holiday on foot.

Getting around

• Walking: Canterbury is a very walkable city. Most attractions, shops and restaurants are within easy reach of each other.

• Cycling: There are good cycle paths in and around the city, and bike hire is available if you want to explore further afield, including the surrounding countryside.

• Public transport: Stagecoach operates local buses within the city and to nearby towns and villages. Taxis and ride-hailing services like Uber are also available.

Best time to visit

• Weather: Canterbury enjoys a mild climate throughout the year. May to June and September to early October are particularly pleasant, with fewer crowds and comfortable temperatures.

• Events: Don’t miss the Canterbury Festival in October, a two-week celebration of music, theatre and literature. In July, the Medieval Pageant and Family Trail brings the city’s history to life with costumed parades and interactive activities.

Accommodation

• Options: From charming B&Bs and historic inns to boutique hotels and modern self-catering apartments, Canterbury has something to suit all tastes and budgets.

• Where to stay: The city centre is ideal for those wanting to be close to main attractions, while the surrounding countryside offers peaceful retreats.

• When to book: Accommodation can fill up quickly during school holidays and festival periods, so it’s best to book early for the best choice.

Local attractions

• Canterbury Cathedral: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it’s one of England’s most iconic religious buildings and the heart of the city’s spiritual and architectural heritage.

• St Augustine’s Abbey and St Martin’s Church: These two sites complete the UNESCO trio, showcasing the city's deep Christian roots.

• The Canterbury Tales: A fun and immersive way to learn about Chaucer’s England – great for families and literary fans.

• Westgate Gardens: Take a peaceful walk along the River Stour and admire the floral displays, historic walls and medieval Westgate Tower.

Dining and shopping

• Eating out: Canterbury has a wide range of eateries, from traditional English pubs and tearooms to international restaurants and vegan cafés. Try dining at a riverside café or one of the city’s centuries-old inns.

• Shopping: The city centre offers a mix of well-known brands, quirky independent shops and weekly markets. The King’s Mile is a favourite for browsing artisan boutiques, galleries and antiques.

Practical tips

• Currency and banking: The local currency is the British Pound (£). ATMs are easy to find, and most shops and restaurants accept contactless card payments. Currency exchange services are available at banks and bureaux de change.

• Health and safety: Canterbury is a safe city with a friendly atmosphere. Take standard precautions with your belongings, especially in busy areas. In an emergency, dial 999 for police, ambulance or fire services.

• Language: English is the spoken language. Locals are helpful and used to welcoming visitors from around the world.

With its storybook streets, historical landmarks and welcoming vibe, a holiday in Canterbury is an ideal way to combine cultural exploration with relaxed charm.

Best things to do in Canterbury

Canterbury is a fascinating slice of English history, boasting two thousand years of remarkable heritage with Roman ruins, a striking cathedral, a crumbling Norman castle, and charming Tudor buildings that transport you back in time.

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Westgate Tower: For a lovely view over the city, climb up to the battlements of Canterbury's largest city gate. You'll get a great look at the cathedral and the gardens below.

The best districts

• Cathedral Precincts: Enter through the stunning Christ Church Gate, built in the early 16th century, where Burgate and St Margaret's Street meet. This crossroads was once called "Bullstake" as cattle were baited here, supposedly to tenderise their meat.

• The King's Mile: This stretch from the cathedral up Sun Street to Palace Street is packed with charming historic buildings, quirky shops, galleries, and eateries that really give you a taste of the local vibe.

Parks and gardens

• Westgate Gardens: Nestled along the River Stour, these beautiful gardens are perfect for a picnic or a leisurely stroll. Don’t miss out on the enormous Oriental plane tree, over 200 years old and impressively thick.

• Franciscan Gardens: A peaceful retreat featuring a tranquil river flowing past clusters of wildflowers; it’s a lovely spot to unwind.

Historical monuments

• Canterbury Cathedral: This majestic cathedral is the heart of Canterbury and home to the Archbishop of Canterbury. It’s hard not to feel a sense of awe when you see it.

• Greyfriars Chapel: Tucked away just outside the busy city centre, this quaint little chapel has beautiful gardens and makes for a quiet getaway from the bustle.

• Old Weavers House: One of the most photographed buildings in Canterbury, this charming half-timbered structure now houses a couple of lovely restaurants along the riverside.

Museums

• Roman Museum: Explore an incredible Roman townhouse complete with beautifully preserved mosaic floors right in the city’s underground museum.

Day trips from Canterbury

Canterbury’s prime location in Kent serves as an ideal base for day trips to nearby towns, each with its own special attractions.

Whitstable: seaside charm

Whitstable is just a short jaunt from Canterbury, famous for its oysters and delightful seafront. Take a stroll along the pebbly beach, visit the harbour, and tuck into fresh seafood at the local spots. There are also unique shops and galleries to explore.

Herne Bay: family-friendly fun

Herne Bay is the quintessential British seaside town, perfect for a family day out. Hit the sandy beach, check out the historic pier, and wander through the lovely seafront gardens, with plenty of cafes and ice cream parlours around for snacks.

Deal: historic and picturesque

Deal is a quaint town rich in maritime history. Visit the impressive Deal Castle, take a stroll along the award-winning pier, and explore the charming lanes filled with independent shops and cafes. The promenade offers stunning sea views.

Faversham: market town charm

Faversham is one of England's oldest market towns, boasting historic architecture and a vibrant market scene. Visit the Shepherd Neame Brewery, the oldest brewery in Britain, and wander the lovely streets lined with medieval and Georgian buildings.

Dover: iconic cliffs and history

Dover, famous for its iconic White Cliffs and historic castle, is a must-see. Tour Dover Castle, soak in the panoramic views from the cliffs, and discover the town's significant role during WWII.

Margate: art and beach

Margate is a lively seaside town known for its sandy beaches and vibrant arts scene. Visit the Turner Contemporary art gallery, explore the charming Old Town with its shops and cafes, and have some fun at the classic amusement park, Dreamland.

Activities for families in Canterbury

Canterbury has loads of family-friendly activities to keep everyone entertained.

• Interactive museums: The Beaney House of Art and Knowledge is perfect for a family day out, packed with exhibits from stuffed animals to antiquities and archaeological treasures.

• Aquariums and zoos: Just a short drive from the city, Howletts Wild Animal Park is renowned for its conservation efforts, dedicated to saving and breeding endangered species.

• Punting: Experience a unique perspective of the city by taking a guided punting trip along the River Stour. For a bit of fun, you can even take turns steering the punt yourself.

Free things to do in Canterbury

From ancient structures to natural beauty, there’s plenty to enjoy in Canterbury without spending a fortune.

• Free events: The Canterbury Festival is a highlight on the city's arts calendar, featuring an exciting mix of music, theatre, and performance, with plenty of activities and events available for free.

• Churches: Canterbury is home to many beautiful churches open to visitors at no cost. Start with St Dunstan's, famous for housing the remains of Sir Thomas More, then visit St Martin's Church, one of England's oldest and a significant early Christian site.

• Free guided tours: Several local groups offer guided walking tours of Canterbury that are free, though tips are appreciated. A fantastic way to learn about the city's rich history and stunning architecture.

Nature and outdoor activities

Surrounded by beautiful countryside, Canterbury is perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

• Hiking: The Pilgrims' Way is a fantastic hiking trail that offers stunning views and a touch of the area's history.

• Cycling: The Crab and Winkle Way is a delightful cycling route that leads from Canterbury to the coastal town of Whitstable along an old railway track.

• Kayaking and canoeing: The River Stour is ideal for a calm paddle. Rent canoes, kayaks, or paddleboards from local outfitters and explore the river while watching for wildlife.

• Bird-watching: Head to Stodmarsh National Nature Reserve, a vast area of wetlands that's perfect for spotting a variety of birds, including bitterns and kingfishers.

Holidays to Canterbury are a treat for the tastebuds with the full range of Kent's fabulous produce to the fore, not to mention some delicious drinks.

Some typical dishes

• Cobnuts: This tasty Kentish hazelnut, harvested between mid-August and October, can be bought at local farmers' markets and found as an ingredient on menus throughout the county.

• Huffkins: An old-fashioned Kentish speciality – a soft, flat, small oval loaf with a deep dimple in the centre, occasionally filled like a bap, and often served warm.

Tapas dishes

• Tapas at The Goods Shed: Housed in an old brick goods shed, this is a highlight of any foodie visit to Canterbury. You'll find traders selling local cheeses, breads, charcuterie, fresh produce, wine and beer, along with tapas and sharing plates.

Meat dishes

• Kentish Lamb: Though many of the famed Romney Marsh lambs are now farmed elsewhere, the appearance on menus of their prized, tender meat is the sure sign of a good restaurant.

• Game dishes: The region's countryside provides excellent game, such as pheasant and venison, which are best sampled in a cosy local pub.

Fish and seafood dishes

• Whitstable Oysters: Just a short trip from Canterbury, the old fishing town of Whitstable is the place to eat these briny delicacies; there's even an annual festival to give thanks for them.

Sweets and desserts

Canterbury's traditional desserts are not to be missed. Try a Gypsy Tart, a traditional tart made with evaporated milk and muscovado sugar, creating a rich and sweet treat. Or there's the comforting Kentish Pudding Pie, a delicious local dessert made with breadcrumbs, lemon, and sweet spices, often served with custard.

Local drinks

• Kentish Ale: The heartland of the old hop industry, Kent is known for its real ales. The biggest local name, and the nation's oldest brewery, is Shepherd Neame, which produces characteristically earthy ales – Spitfire and Bishop's Finger among them.

• Kent wine: Kent, where the soil conditions and geology are almost identical to those in France's Champagne region, is home to some of the country's most highly regarded vineyards. Try Chapel Down, which does superb fizz and excellent whites.