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Canterbury Villages & Countryside

Visit the rolling fields, roaming wildlife or rich vineyards

Villages & Countryside

Visit the rolling fields, roaming wildlife or rich vineyards

Canterbury Villages & Countryside

Visit the rolling fields, roaming wildlife or rich vineyards

Around the city and coast, you will find plenty of rural places to recharge and reconnect with your loved ones.

A visit to Wildwood Trust is a must for any animal lover, as it is home to more than 200 species of past and present native British animals including wolves, bears, wild boar and otters. East Kent's nature trails provide really wonderful walking and cycling routes in the greenery surrounding Canterbury, such as the Blean Woods with its wild roaming pigs, ponies, and European bison! For more exotic species, head out to Howletts Wild Animal Park where you can see a wide variety of different wild animals like big cats, gorillas and elephants in expansive surroundings, managed by the Aspinall Foundation conservation charity.

The Crab and Winkle Way connects Canterbury and Whitstable, following a picturesque route through peaceful, green country and is perfect for walkers and cyclists of all abilities. Or trek the gentle Great Stour Way, which follows the River Stour from Westgate Gardens to the village of Chartham.

And if you really want to soak up the scenery, what better way to do it than with a tour and tasting at one of Canterbury’s vineyards? Simpsons, Barnsole, and Chartham all produce outstanding still and sparkling wines thanks to the exceptional climate and have cellar door experience that are a must for wine lovers.

The Kentish Wine Way

Fancy making a weekend of your wine experience? Why not enjoy The Kentish Wine Way - bringing together 30 vineyards open to the public, of all scales and sizes, each offering its own cellar door and unique visitor experience.

As England's largest and most awarded wine region, Kent has around 120 commercial vineyards and more than 1,300 hectares under vine.

Blessed with some of the longest sunshine hours in the country, Kent's vineyards are set amongst rolling hills, ancient orchards and picturesque villages, offering breath taking views across the county's chocolate-box landscapes. From sun-drenched vineyard terraces to sweeping countryside vistas, this is scenery worth the journey on its own.

Perfectly connected by high-speed rail, visitors can travel from London mainline stations to the heart of Kent in under an hour, making world-class wine experiences easily accessible for a spontaneous day trip, a memorable weekend escape or a longer, leisurely stay.