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10 great things to do in Canterbury

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10 great things to do in Canterbury

10 great things to do in Canterbury

21st July 2022

Canterbury is shaped by history, by nature, and by its people.

From Romans to royalty, saints to knights and playwrights to pilgrims, there are so many stories to discover in our beautiful district so build your bespoke itinerary for the perfect Canterbury staycation.

Need some inspiration on what to do here? Here's a starter for 10...

 

  1. 1. Step into 1,400 years of history at Canterbury's three UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the magnificent Canterbury Cathedral, as well as St Martin’s Church and St Augustine’s Abbey are must see attractions for any visitor. You can event wake up to the majestic view of Canterbury Cathedral with an overnight stay at the Canterbury Cathedral Lodge.

  2. 2. Relax on a lazy punt or historic boat trip along the River Stour as your guide points out hidden gems only found from meandering the waterways of the city. Take a look at Canterbury Punting Co, Canterbury Historic River Tours and Westgate Punts.

  3. 3. Sample local award-winning wines with a tour and tasting at one of the district's award-winning vineyards. Take trip into the countryside to visit family-run Chartham Vineyard, or internationally renowned Simpsons Wine Estate

  4. 4. Wander through Blean Woods National Nature Reserve; one of the largest areas of ancient woodlands in southern Britain that is home to mature oaks, woodpeckers, nightingales and even bison! 

  5. 5. Walk or cycle the Crab and Winkle Way, a disused railway line between Canterbury and Whitstable - the first railway in England to carry passengers in steam-hauled trains!

  6. 6. Expand your mind and find hidden stories about Canterbury with a trip to The Beaney House of Art & Knowledge, a free art gallery, library and visitor information centre in the heart of the city. Or discover the city beneath the city at the Canterbury Roman Museum.

  7. 7. Indulge in one (or more!) of Whitstable’s famous native oysters. Stroll along the seafront and through the smugglers alleyways of this beautiful harbour town, and soak up those sunsets

  8. 8. Take in the wide-open spaces, fresh sea air, and award-winning coastline of Herne Bay, a traditional and charming coastal town overlooked by the majestic Reculver Towers.

  9. 9. Tantalize your taste buds with a self-guided foodie tour of the city. We've got cuisines to tantalize every taste bud, packed with fresh Kentish produce and washed down with delicious local ales and spirits. 

  10. 10. Shop local! Canterbury is packed with independent businesses and great high street brands, so you can stock up for special occasions, buy amazing gifts and treat yourself to a piece of Canterbury to take home. 

Stay a little longer...

Canterbury’s beautiful city, coast, and countryside are perfect for short or longer stays. Less than an hour from London by train, it's so easy to escape to our medieval city. Whether you're looking for a countryside break with the family (and your four-legged friends), want a romantic coastal break for two, or fancy a chic city break with your friends, we invite you to find your perfect place to stay.