12 Reasons to Choose Canterbury This Winter
Twinkling lights, misty landscapes, crisp leaves and cosy pubs. Wrap up warm and explore the Canterbury this winter and you might just be surprised at what you'll find...
- The PERFECT Christmas break - ancient building sparkling with festive lights, Canterbury's traditional Christmas Market inside the Cathedral grounds and dotted along the thriving shopping districts, Christmas trees, fun and games for the family, cosy pubs, festive windows, stalls serving warming drinks and heart grub, great pubs and fine dining restaurants for your choice of celebration, and a range of luxurious and budget-friendly accommodation options to keep you in the heart of the festive action. And we're just an hour from London with Southeastern trains. Perfection.
- Immerse yourself in the splendour of Canterbury Cathedral. The historic site is the focal point for events, talks, performances and activities all year round, and for the first time in a century, it will be hosting part of our festive market! With its own incredible crib scene, plush Christmas tree and seasonal events, make sure to check the events pages when you visit and explore this incredible UNESCO world heritage site at your leisure.
- For indoor fun on rainy days, head to The Beaney House of Art & Knowledge to visit Bagpuss and friends, and discover a world of curio and rich history from Canterbury's past. Or become an archaeologist and discover some Roman treasures at the Canterbury Roman Museum. Events for all ages will be laid on, and big kids will love exploring the mysteries under Canterbury's streets.
- Indulge in some retail therapy! Head to Whitefriars Shopping Centre to browse the big-name brands, and head into Fenwick Department Store or visit their famous Christmas shop. And don't forget Canterbury's incredible range of independent shops for gift ideas, books, clothes and curio to make your sofa days as snuggly as possible. Take a look at our guide to shopping local for inspiration.
- Take in a show! The Marlowe Theatre's award-winning pantomime is not to be missed, and you can get a second fix of seasonal fun at The Malthouse Theatre. Both venues, and the Gulbenkian Arts Centre at the University of Kent, have a packed programme of shows, talks, comedy and dance throughout the year.
- To really step into 1,400 years of history, book a guided city tour. You can explore the streets by foot as your guide points out hidden gems, suitable for all weathers and a great way to get to know the city's hot spots!
- Just a five-minute stroll from the city centre, past the ancient walls that encircle the city, is St Augustine’s Abbey. Originally the burial place of Anglo-Saxon kings of Kent, it is part of the Canterbury World Heritage Site, along with the cathedral and St Martin's Church, and is a wonderful place to explore on a misty morning.
- Escape to one of the largest areas of ancient woodlands in southern Britain, Blean Woods National Nature Reserve, less than 10 minutes away from the city centre. It‘s the perfect place to kick up the leaves on an autumn walk or wander through mature oaks which hide lesser spotted woodpeckers and nightingales. And you might even spot a few Bison roaming the land, as part of the Wildwood Trust rewilding programme.
- Tickle your taste buds on a foodie tour of Canterbury with rib-sticking dishes and creative menus from around the world. Colder days call for curries, spices, stews and oodles of noodles. Take a look at our Food Lovers' Guide to Canterbury for top tips on where to dine.
- Go from cloisters to oysters and cycle along the Crab and Winkle Way. An old and disused railway line between Canterbury and Whitstable it was the first railway in England to carry passengers in steam-hauled trains. The original Invicta steam engine now sits proudly in Whitstable Museum. Why not soak up the seasonal vibes with Kent Cycle Hire for just £22 a day.
- Get that much-needed vitamin D on dry days and head out into nature for a rewarding hike. You can take a stroll along the River Stour to picturesque Chartham or Fordwich, or head over to Whitstable and Herne Bay for a seaside stroll to blow the cobwebs away. You can reward yourself with a pint or a cream tea at the end, you'e earned it!
