School's out for summer! Whether you're looking for things to do with the kids, family days out that won't break the bank, adventures for grown-ups or a great mini-break in the summer sunshine, we've got plenty to offer here in Canterbury.
Canterbury’s beautiful city, coast, and countryside are perfect for short or longer stays, as we are less than an hour from London by train. Choose a city break filled with shopping and foodie delights, or head out for a countryside or coastal break - find a great place to stay here
Now is the perfect time for kids to let their hair down, try new skills, watch hilarious shows and chill out. Here are some holiday highlights coming up in Canterbury - be sure to follow our sister channel MyCanterbury on Facebook and Instagram for the latest summer activities and offers. Remember to check with venues for charges and booking information.
Family Fun
Making History Fun
EXPLORE THE BEANEY Jul & Aug
Visit the 'Lives in Motion' exhibition, say hi to The Clangers and Bagpuss, dress up as portraits, explore epic collections and more!
DISCOVER THE MEDIEVAL MONKS, Canterbury Cathedral, Jul & Aug
Explore the lives of the Cathedral’s medieval monks with tours, workshops and hands-on make-and-do activities.
COIN BASH, Canterbury Roman Museum, until Sun 31 Aug
Mint your own replica coin using authentic tools with the friendly museum team (charges apply). 2 kids enter free per paying adult.
Take In A Show
BOING! FAMILY ARTS FESTIVAL, Gulbenkian Arts Centre, University of Kent, Sat 23-Sun 24 Aug
A brilliant weekend of performance and creativity for all ages, with a relaxed approach to audience movement and response. Free to enter, with lots of free performances and activities. You can also buy tickets for a range of indoor performances, workshops and the Luminarium.
OUTDOOR THEATRE AT THE CATHEDRAL
The Tempest: Mon 4 Aug | 1-3pm (8yrs+) 😎 The Wind in the Willows: Sat 30 Aug | 1-3pm (4yrs+)
Interactive fun with Immersion Theatre in the beautiful Cathedral grounds.
DINOSAUR WORLD LIVE Marlowe Theatre, Fri 15‐Sun 17 Aug
A roarsome interactive show for all the family! Discover a pre-historic world of remarkably life-like dinosaurs. Stay in your seat at the end for a meet and greet!
PUPPET SPECTACULAR GLOW SHOW Malthouse Theatre, Sun 17 Aug | 2.30pm
A colourful UV puppet show for all the family with colourful characters, music and mesmerising glow-in-the-dark visuals.
CURZON RIVERSIDE OPEN AIR SCREEN Jul/Aug
Families can settle down to watch kids' classics from across the eras together, such as Matilda, ET, Wicked, Robin Hood, Grease, Inside Out and more, on bean bags or deckchairs, with food & drink on hand!
Indoor Crafts and Outdoor Fun
CHILDREN'S SUMMER CAMP AT STEFANIE'S ART STUDIO, Canterbury Innovation Centre, Wed 6-Fri 8 Aug | 10am-3pm
A three-day artistic adventure filled with creativity and fun. Go along to 3 days and get 5% off!
KIDS' CUPCAKE BAKING + ADULT SPARKLING TEA, Fenwick, Wed 23 Jul-Fri 22 Aug | 3.30pm
Budding bakers make and decorate cakes, their adults enjoy a sparkling cream tea. Kids' mini tea included.
FRANCISCAN GARDENS & SHOP, St Peter's St Mon–Fri | 11am-5pm, Sat-Sun | 10am-5pm
Gorgeous historic gardens in the heart of the city, perfect for families of all ages to explore, relax, picnic and play.
CANOE WILD YOUNG PADDLERS CAMP, Grove Ferry, Every Wed until 27 Aug | 10am-2pm
8-14 year olds can learn paddle skills and water confidence and try canoeing, kayaking and paddleboarding.
SUMMERZONE HOLIDAY CAMP, Kent Sport, University of Kent, Mon 11-Fri 22 Aug
Fun sporty activities for 5-13 year olds, with activities tailored so all children experience qualified coaching.
Adventures For All Ages
A visit to the magnificent Canterbury Cathedral is a must for newcomers to the city, with numerous events and exhibitions held throughout the year. An incredible sight, inside and out, be sure to check their website for talks, tours, events and more for people of all ages.
You can also drift along The River Stour on one of the city's boat and punting tours. Take a look at Canterbury Punting Co, Canterbury Historic River Tours and Westgate Punts for a fabulous way to spend a sunny afternoon in the city.
Or why not raise a glass to wine country with a trip to an award-winning vineyard? Canterbury is surrounded by vineyards producing sparkling and still wines, and most offer tours and tastings. Head into the countryside to Chartham Vineyard or book an experience at Simpsons Wine Estate. Alternatively stay in the city centre for a tutored tasting of fine wines at Corkk or head to independent brewery and distillery The Foundry to sample their range of ales, largers, gins, and whiskey.
You can also take the family or a date out into nature for a truly special day out. Head out to Blean Woods National Nature Reserve and explore the ancient woodlands. Or see wild beasts at Wildwood Trust where bison, bears and wolves (safely) roam or head out to Howletts Wild Animal Park to see exotic beasts in a huge animal sanctuary in the Canterbury countryside.
For more inspiration, take a look at our list of 10 Great Things To Do in the City
