Canterbury Travel Guide: Cathedral, Medieval Streets and Kent's Best Pubs
Canterbury Cathedral, river punting, the medieval city walls, Chaucer's pilgrims and gastropubs in the Kent countryside – the best things to do in Canterbury.
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Canterbury is one of England's most historic cities. For centuries pilgrims travelled here to visit the shrine of Thomas Becket, and Chaucer immortalised their journey in The Canterbury Tales. Today it's a lively, compact city with a magnificent cathedral and great food and drink in the surrounding Kent countryside.
1. Canterbury Cathedral
The mother church of the Church of England and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with stunning stained glass, a vast crypt and the spot where Becket was murdered in 1170. Evensong is a moving experience.
2. The medieval streets
Wander the half-timbered buildings of Mercery Lane, the Buttermarket and Palace Street, and the Crooked House, which leans dramatically.
3. River punting
Glide along the River Stour under old bridges and past medieval buildings on a punt tour.
4. The city walls and Westgate Towers
Walk sections of the medieval walls and visit the Westgate, a medieval gatehouse.
5. St Augustine's Abbey and St Martin's Church
Part of the UNESCO site, St Martin's is considered the oldest church in continuous use in the English-speaking world.
6. Countryside pubs
Kent's villages are full of excellent gastropubs, and the region's food awards regularly honour pubs in the area. Combine a pub lunch with a walk through orchards and hop gardens.
7. Day trip to Whitstable
The seaside town, famous for oysters, is around 20 minutes away by road or bus.
Getting around
The city centre is compact and walkable. Park and ride services operate from the edge of the city.
Frequently asked questions
How do you get to Canterbury from London?
High-speed trains from London St Pancras reach Canterbury West in under an hour.
Is Canterbury worth an overnight stay?
Yes. One day covers the cathedral and old town; staying overnight lets you add a countryside pub, Whitstable or the Kent coast.
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