Visit Canterbury
Welcome To Canterbury
There is nowhere quite like Canterbury, especially at Christmas. Our medieval walled city has been hosting visitors for more than 1,000 years, so a warm welcome for any 'pilgrim' is guaranteed.
This winter, embrace the beauty of the city as it transforms for the festive season. Wind your way through our cobbled streets adorned with miles of twinkling lights, drink in the historical sights, and explore the high traditional Christmas market with wooden hits dotted around the city centre and inside the magnificent precincts of Canterbury Cathedral.
You can shop at a huge mix of independent and high street retailers, and celebrate the season in award-winning restaurants, breweries and cafes. There are plenty of exciting events and festivals on the calendar, and beautiful cosy spots to curl up with a drink and watch the world go by.
We're perfectly positioned for anyone looking for a charming break in a historic, picturesque location - just under 1 hour’s train journey from London with Southeastern trains, and moments away from the stunning Kentish countryside and coast. The coastal towns of Whitstable and Herne Bay are on our doorstep offering sweeping sea views and quintessential seaside town charm, not to mention the sensational seafood all year round.
If you're looking for the perfect festive break in England, or a longer escape in a medieval yet modern destination with beautiful views, outstanding shopping, and delicious local food and drink...then Canterbury is waiting for you.
We can't wait to show you around.
Top Tips For Your Next Trip
Find Festive Things To Do
Give or Get The Gift of Canterbury
Did you know that the city has its own Canterbury Gift Card? Accepted in more than 130 shops, pubs, restaurants and services, it's the perfect gift for anyone visiting, living in or studying in Canterbury.
Whether it’s a stack of new books, a delicious meal out, a haircut, some new clothes or a trip out for the whole family, the Canterbury Gift Card has it covered!
The gift card is a Canterbury BID initiative created to support city centre businesses.
Start planning your journey
Getting to and around Canterbury couldn't be easier.
Just under 1 hour from central London by direct high speed Southeastern train services, with two train stations serving the rest of Kent and the south east region.
The M2 motorway allows a quick journey from London or the Port of Dover, and there are ample bus and coach services to the coast and countryside every day.
You can even walk or cycle through idyllic Kentish countryside to Canterbury as thousands of pilgrims from across Europe have done for thousands of years.
