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The 23 best sights in Canterbury
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Wanderlog staff
Updated • updatedSep 26, 2025
Updated • updatedSep 26, 2025
Nestled in the heart of Kent, Canterbury is a city steeped in history and charm, making it a must-visit destination for travelers. From the awe-inspiring Canterbury Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site that has stood for over 1,400 years, to the quaint streets lined with unique shops and eateries, there's a story waiting to be discovered at every turn. Whether you're wandering through the serene Westgate Gardens or exploring the ancient ruins of St Augustine's Abbey, Canterbury invites you to step back in time and immerse yourself in its rich heritage.
As you stroll through this enchanting city, you'll find a delightful mix of attractions that cater to all interests. Art lovers can explore the diverse exhibitions at The Beaney House of Art & Knowledge, while history buffs will appreciate the artifacts at the Canterbury Roman Museum. Don't forget to take a leisurely boat tour along the River Stour for a unique perspective of Canterbury's medieval monuments. With so much to see and do, it's time to pack your bags and set off on an unforgettable adventure in this captivating city.
Why trust us
We scoured through the internet and read through 19 reputable sites and blogs like The Culture Trip and Lonely Planet. We gathered all the results in one place and ranked them by how many times they were mentioned so you know you're getting the best of the best. Just look for the "mentioned by" tags on each place like these: 
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Other best of categories in Canterbury
Restaurants
Attractions
Cafes
Cheap eats
Breakfast and brunch
Romantic places
Family restaurants
Shopping
Bars
Cathedral
Sights & Landmarks
Church
Heritage museum
Canterbury Cathedral, a Norman-built Church of England place of worship located in Canterbury, UK, is one of the oldest religious sites in England with a history dating back over 1400 years. It gained notoriety as the location where Archbishop Thomas Becket was tragically killed in 1170. Despite enduring fires and restoration efforts, the cathedral's Gothic towers and exquisite stained-glass windows continue to captivate visitors.
Canterbury Cathedral is absolutely breathtaking. From the stunning stained glass windows to the grand architecture, every corner tells a story. The atmosphere is peaceful yet powerful, and walking through its ancient halls feels like stepping back in time. It’s a must-visit for anyone interested in history, architecture, or simply experiencing something truly awe-inspiring. The audio guide was helpful too. Don’t miss the cloisters!
Federico S — Google review
Went on a Thursday, a week day. Large cathedral, bigger than expected. It did have some construction ongoing outside so that did affect the pictures of the building.
Staff and volunteers inside were friendly and happy to tell you a lot about the history, for free. Ticket office staff also helpful explaining the differences in tickets. Very quick and easy.
Cathedral probably needs two visits and definitely a tour guide to fully appreciate.
There is a cafe and restaurant, and even a hotel.
Toilet facilities were adequate.
Good places to sit and read if you need a break also.
Definitely will return.
Very impressed. More than expected. Magnificent architecture. Huge, light, airy and less dark and oppressive when compared with Westminster Abbey. Beautiful ceilings and stained glass and extensive history. Less ‘tombs’ and fortunately less busy midweek.
During our visit a Chaplain addressed all visitors briefly from the pulpit, and offered a prayer, using the cathedral for it’s intended purpose as a place of worship - not a tourist attraction - as it should be.
The entry fee to the Cathedral is very reasonable considering the cost of maintaining the building and overseeing visitors. We paid an additional small sum for a guided tour which was exceptional. Lucky to get a ticket. The volunteer gave us a lot of insight into the development of Christianity in the UK, the various phases of the Church during different occupations and global conflicts, the murder of Thomas Beckett in 1170 AD, the destruction of his shrine by King Henry VIII in 1538, all wrapped up with visiting the different areas of the building and outlining the many extensions and renovations over 1000 years! Wonderful learning experience.
A beautiful and peaceful place to spend the day.
You can wander around the whole site taking in all of the history and story of the cathedral.
There is plenty to see inside both in the crypt and the main floor.
You can walk through the entire cathedral. There are places set aside for prayer and quiet contemplation.
The outside areas are quiet and interesting to look at. Since the building has been cleaned on the outside you get a good feel for the surroundings and what it would have looked like when it was built.
Hearing the bells on the hour was magical and seeing the places where St Thomas was murdered and the site of his tomb before it was destroyed in the reformation makes you stop and think.
A fantastic day and a day of learning is never wasted.
One day I will return to learn some more.
Thank you.
Beautiful Cathedral inside and outside. Very well maintained. You might need two days to walk around inside and outside, lovely gardens with lots of historical information.
We thought it was free to enter, but it wasn't. We brought tickets either £19 or £21.00 each (don't remember exactly) they are valid for 12 months from the day of purchase. Just as well really, we thought they opened early on Sunday mornings, but they don't they have Sunday service and they open at 12.30. We had planned to go somewhere else and couldn't wait that long. We managed to walk around inside on Saturday morning early when it was quiet. The cathedral echos when people are talking, it looses it's essence of peace and solidtude.
Definitely check the opening and closing times when planning a visit, it isn't visible from the outside of the cathedral which currently has scaffolding surrounding it for maintenance work.
I will definitely go back to walk around the remainder of the cathedral before our tickets expire.
Needs little introduction most well known cathedral in country. Didn't disappoint on visit. Simply Hugh with lots to see and do caribou rooms offshoots to visit. Lots of history require good golf day to visit. Nice friendly staff gave concise explanations throughout visit
Great visit to Canterbury. Will have to visit a second time, lots to see. Had a boat trip. Would recommend, short but full of historical facts. Cathedral was good, only saw part as it was Graduation day. They still charged the full price though.
The Cathedral is truly a jewel of medieval architecture. The town, where Charles Dickens once lived for a while, has its own magic. You can feel the atmosphere of English life, away from the hustle and bustle of London (in a certain sense, it conveyed this to me). In the winter, it comes alive with university student life, and I think the pace of daily life changes, but despite everything, it remains beautiful to visit, perhaps even better.
Cathedral House, 11 The Precincts, Canterbury CT1 2EH, United Kingdom•
Museum
Art gallery
Art museum
Library
Nestled in the heart of Canterbury, The Beaney House of Art & Knowledge is a captivating destination that seamlessly blends history and creativity. Housed in a beautifully renovated 19th-century building, this multifaceted venue serves as a museum, art gallery, and library. Visitors can explore an impressive array of artworks including paintings, engravings, and prints alongside exquisite European ceramics and Anglo-Saxon jewelry.
An excellent museum with a fine blend of everything. It is suitable for both kids and adults with its variety of exhibits and interactive activities. There are many artifacts, oil on canvas paintings, crystals and even taxidermy animals. So there is something catered to your taste as long as you are into museums. The cattle paintings are extremely entertaining.
Also totally did not expect Sir Van Dyck's work to be in the gallery
Sky L — Google review
The Beaney House of Art & Knowledge is a great museum plus exibitions in the heart of Canterbury.
This beautifully restored building combines a museum, art gallery, and library all under one roof. The exhibitions are varied and thoughtfully curated, ranging from local history to contemporary art. It’s family-friendly and a great place to spend an hour or two exploring. The architecture is also impressive, with charming details inside and out.
It’s free to enter, making it an accessible and enriching experience for everyone. Whether you’re visiting Canterbury or live nearby, The Beaney is well worth a visit.
My friend and I have been staying nearby and came into Canterbury to see the sights. We came upon this museum and it was an absolute delight!! Interesting little exhibits. I was most pleased to discover the history of Bagpuss! For a free museum, there’s a lot of things to see! Highly recommended to visit!
A must for families with children! This is one of my favorite museum visits in Europe. Each gallery thoughtfully displayed with a coordinating children’s activity center in each gallery. It was just myself and my husband and we thoroughly enjoyed our visit. As a bonus, if also serves as the visitor center in a centuries old building.
A blend of everything from art to childhood toys, animals and whatever else. I found it generally quite mixed, some interesting parts and some not so much. A mixed experience, it was an okay place to visit for free.
Great place and exhibits loved the Oliver postgate cabinets . Free but recommend the £5 donation . Bit cheaper than the cathedral 😎
Great museum, lots of history dating back to the 5th century, arts section is amazing too, entry is free and good for students to learn about history and culture. Allow for an hour
It is an absolute gem, and the fact that it’s free to enter is a real bonus.
They've got an impressive collection of historical treasures on display. Although the insect specimens weren’t quite to my taste, the rest of the exhibits were truly remarkable.
It’s definitely worth popping in if you’re in Canterbury!
18 High St, Canterbury, CT1 2RA, United Kingdom•
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Park
Nature & Parks
Gardens
Nestled beside the serene River Stour, Westgate Gardens is a picturesque haven that invites visitors to unwind amidst its natural beauty. This enchanting spot features a magnificent 200-year-old plane tree and an intriguing Victorian Tower House, adding historical charm to the landscape. As you stroll through these gardens, you'll find yourself immersed in the rich history of Canterbury, especially as you approach the monumental Westgate—the largest surviving medieval gatehouse in England.
Really pretty find walking around Canterbury. Walk along the river which is very clear and has ducks and swans. Area to sit and enjoy the sun and just watch the world go by. Would recommend a visit especially on a summers day.
J E — Google review
Canterbury is a beautiful historic city full of charm, and Westgate Gardens is one of its highlights! Lovely flowers, peaceful riverside walks, and stunning views by the old city walls. Perfect place to relax and enjoy nature after exploring the city.
Beautiful green space, with plenty of place to sit or lie down and chill out. Keep going up the Stour and wander up a trail. Like a lot of Canterbury, you will likely encounter a lot of grubby homeless people in this garden. If I was I homeless in Canterbury, I'd probably hang out here, too. We visited middle of May.
Westgate Gardens is a beautiful and peaceful place. The gardens are well-maintained and full of colourful flowers with scenic riverside views. It’s the perfect spot for a relaxing walk, a picnic, or just to enjoy some quiet time by the River Stour. You can also take a punt ride along the river for a different perspective of the gardens and the city. Clean, safe, and family-friendly place. Westgate Gardens is a must-visit for anyone spending time in Canterbury.
Lovely riverside walk into the centre of Canterbury. If you look carefully (under bridges easiest), you might be able to see some eels. The ducks are very happy to be fed; please avoid bread though. Small cafe area near the West Gate end.
There were some bugs and insects, but that means the place is nature-friendly! I love the peaceful mood and flowers. Sometimes there is small festival about medieval culture and you can see the knights fighting show.
Westgate Gardens is a stunning riverside park in Canterbury that offers a peaceful retreat from city life. The beautifully maintained lawns, vibrant flowerbeds, and diverse trees—including the majestic 200-year-old Oriental Plane Tree—create a calming and picturesque setting. Walking along the shaded paths by the River Stour, you can soak in the natural beauty and spot local wildlife.
A highlight is the spectacular view of the historic Westgate Towers, England’s largest surviving medieval city gate, which adds a fascinating historical backdrop to the gardens. Whether you’re enjoying a family picnic, a romantic stroll, or simply seeking a quiet spot to read and relax, Westgate Gardens provides the perfect balance of nature and heritage.
It’s a must-visit for anyone exploring Canterbury, offering tranquility and charm just steps from the city center.
It was a great discovery turning from the high street and seeing the canal and the garden so lively with people having picnics on the grass, walking around and just enjoying the sunny day.
Great trees and very well looked after gardens. It is highly recommended to visit.
Historical landmark
Sights & Landmarks
Abbey
Heritage building
St Augustine's Abbey, dating back to AD 597, was originally established as a burial site for Anglo-Saxon kings and played a significant role in the revival of Christianity in southern England. The abbey now stands as impressive ruins but offers visitors a chance to explore its rich history through a museum, free audio tour, and virtual reality experience. With its connection to Canterbury Castle and the serene surroundings outside the city walls, it makes for an intriguing visit on a sunny day.
Lovely place to visit, no English Heritage specific parking, but a nice little EH gift shop. Plenty of space for a picnic too. Well looked after and lots of interesting historical information to read.
Isobel H — Google review
We visited this Abbey, and I am so glad we did; the grounds were stunning. The historical significance of this site was fascinating, seeing that the 1st,2nd,3rd and 4th popes of Canterbury were buried here was really interesting to find out. The staff were friendly and welcoming, really cool visit, I would highly recommend a visit there.
I visited St. Augustine’s Abbey today and was truly impressed. The site is steeped in history and beautifully maintained, with clear signage and plenty of information to help bring the ruins to life. Walking through the grounds, it’s easy to imagine the grandeur it once held. The audio guide was a great addition, providing fascinating insights into the abbey’s past. A peaceful and reflective place—definitely worth a visit if you’re in Canterbury and interested in England’s religious history.
Mainly ruins outside but a really nice visitor centre with displays and information about the site. Good for an hour's visit. Nice shop to get yourself a magnet or souvenir. Toilet onsite. No parking. About a 10 minute walk from the town centre.
Absolutely incredible! St Augustine’s was the site of four churches over nearly 1000 years before falling victim to Henry VIII. Enough remains that it’s possible to get a real feel for the abbey in its heyday. The visitors’ centre is great, and I highly recommend the audio tour. You also get a great view of the cathedral in the distance.
A decently preserved Abbey considering it was literally destroyed on purpose. Get the audio tour, without it, you are just looking at ruins and not knowing what once was.
The abbey was founded by St Augustine of Canterbury in the late 6th century. The Abbey is in complete ruins. I was surprised to see the tombstone of St Augustine himself who was the first bishop of Canterbury. If you visit Kent and are interested in church and its history, it is a must visit.
English Heritage ruins with excellent signs explaining its history, life, and buildings. We spent about 45 minutes reading most signs inside and outside, though perhaps slightly longer if using the free audio guide as well.
Ruins are atmospheric, and the small music and outdoor signage do a really good job of telling the abbey’s history.
Originally founded 597 AD, and later the 15th richest abbey in England before the Dissolution of the Monasteries, where retained by Crown as royal residence for Anne of Cleves. Later opened as pleasure gardens, and excavated 19th-20th centuries.
Toilets are a bit dated but clean. Small gift shop. Non-English Heritage car park across the street.
Longport, Canterbury, CT1 1PF, United Kingdom•
Museum
History Museums
The Canterbury Roman Museum is a subterranean museum located within the remains of a Roman courtyard house. It offers displays of jewelry and mosaics, providing insight into the city's Roman history before the construction of the cathedral. The Romans settled in Canterbury around 1 AD, leaving behind a grid-patterned settlement with streets, a theatre, temple, forum, and public baths. The museum showcases artifacts such as mosaic pavements and building materials that shed light on Roman life in Canterbury.
It was a really good museum. Really enjoyed the various exhibits. There is plenty of hands on sections for kids to enjoy. For instance dressing up and playing a roman game.
Amrita B — Google review
A great little place taking you back and literally down (to the old Roman Street level) in history. Awesome to see original mosaics in place and learn about everyday Roman life as well as the rise and fall of Roman Canterbury. It is bonkers how different Canterbury was and not that long ago.
That said this is no Bath Roman Baths so don't go expecting anywhere near an equivalent experience.
A smallish but extremely interesting museum, it was surprising just how deep the Roman level was compared with today's streets.
There was plenty to see and read and we weren't rushed along by any staff.
There were replica shops, as the photos show, and the remains of the floor of a Roman house which was in situ.
We spent over an hour wandering slowly through the museum.
The Canterbury Roman Museum offers an intriguing glimpse into Roman Britain but is a fairly small museum. Adult tickets are priced at £11, which feels a bit high considering the compact size and limited exhibits. It took us only around 15-20 minutes to explore, and that was with reading most of the information boards. However, what stands out as genuinely fascinating is the museum’s historical context: it’s built on the actual remains of a Roman settlement, uncovered during WWII bombings. The preserved mosaic floors and artifacts offer an authentic look into Roman life, and knowing you’re standing where Romans once lived adds an undeniable charm. While not extensive, the museum is worth a visit if you’re interested in history or looking to experience Canterbury’s rich layers of past civilizations.
What can I say? This museum is absolutely fantastic!
It elegantly tells the story of the lives that were once lived there and whose traces are now beneath the charming Canterbury city centre.
It talks all about its Celtic native peoples, its Roman settlements, its Christianisation, its eventual downfall and the later Anglo-Saxon settlement and relevance to the modern day.
History lovers in or around Canterbury ought not to miss this one. Archelogical findings are beautifully displayed and accurately explained so that no detail of our ancestors' lives goes unnoticed.
It also reconstructs ancient Roman house culture telling about the food they ate, the clothes they wore, the games they played and talks respectfully about the native Gods & Goddesses these people held dear in their hearts.
And as a contemporary Pagan, that was especially important to me personally.
I highly recommend this to anyone interested in the pre-medieval history of Canterbury!
Staying near Canterbury so took a trip into town and decided to visit yhe museum. Didnt even know it was there on previous visits. Really lovely museum, interesting artifacts and loved the mosiacs.
This is not a very big museum, and some of the displays seemed a little goofy, but overall it was informative and a fun way to spend an hour
It is nice, small museum, a lot of interesting pieces but £11 is a little bit to price for such a small museum.
11A Longmarket, Butchery Ln, Canterbury CT1 2JR, United Kingdom•
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Church
Sights & Landmarks
Anglican church
Churches & Cathedrals
St. Martin’s Church in Canterbury holds the distinction of being the oldest church still in use in the English-speaking world, with origins dating back to the late 6th century. It was originally Queen Bertha's private chapel and later served as a base for St. Augustine before the cathedral and abbey were built. The church's historical significance is further emphasized by its Roman brick walls, indicating even earlier Roman influence on the site.
The oldest Christian Church in the English-speaking world. This is definitely worth visiting if you are already in town to see Canterbury cathedral, or are otherwise interested in history or Catholicism. There were carvings and signatures etched into the stone that dated back 300+ years. It was incredible to walk through the cemetery and to touch the ancient stones of the church itself. It was a very peaceful and quiet environment. A very spiritually fulfilling location. I personally felt a greater sense of achievement having visited this church than I did after visiting Canterbury cathedral.
Oliver W — Google review
Despite its relatively small size compared to the other historic houses of worship in Canterbury, St Martin’s still inspires awe. The exterior is beautiful, but when you step inside, it’s as if you’re stepping back in time over 1400 years. I visited on a Wednesday, and it was very peaceful. It was fascinating to see how the church changed over time to its present form. Absolutely worth a stop!
Such a beautiful beautiful old church to visit. It's hidden in Canterbury 's less frequented area, so maybe one or two person walked by, when I visited it. It's so peaceful, the walking area is well maintained so even elderly people can walk there safely. Gates a bit tricky to find but it makes the visit even more interesting.
History speaks from its walls! Excellent guide available on arrival, which allows you to walk around the church and gain knowledge on its significance. Volunteer was welcoming and passionate to share on its history. Church yard is peaceful to walk around, with lovely views of the cathedral in the distance. Check opening times in advance to plan your visit.
A very interesting church, being the oldest Christian place of worship in continuous use in the country. The guide sheet for visitors is excellently presented, explaining it's history, architecture and artefacts, and their place in the Christian faith and worship.
A truly unique piece of history. Well worth a visit. There are several steps up to and to get into the church. But well worth making the effort
It is very small but I was positively surprised that they still cared of giving a small informative paper/guide to describe all there is to see in the church. I spent more time than I had expected. It was also lovely to be welcomed by a very kind lady at the entrance.
The oldest church in the English speaking world! Didn't go inside as a service was on but the grounds were very quiet and peaceful. Ground is quite uneven.
1 N Holmes Rd, Canterbury, CT1 1QJ, United Kingdom•
Castle
Sights & Landmarks
Historic Sites
Points of Interest & Landmarks
Canterbury City Wall, an ancient fortification dating back to Roman times and expanded in the medieval period, once encircled the historic city of Canterbury. Today, visitors can explore the ruins and stroll along the paths around the walls. The last surviving gate, Westgate, is steeped in history and offers a glimpse into Canterbury's rich architectural heritage.
Amazing wall that goes past the busstation of Canterbury and also past the park with multiple routes to go down in to the park itself. Had a pleasant walk there.
乇Ⱡ Ꭾ — Google review
The historic city wall is beautifully preserved and definitely worth a visit. You can walk along the top of the wall and enjoy some nice views, or take a detour into the park below for a more relaxed stroll.
Unfortunately, the towers are quite dirty, with noticeable human excrements and an unpleasant smell, which takes away from the experience.
Aside from that, it’s a lovely walk with a lot of charm and history.
Nice walk along the walls. Easily accessible and clean, with good views.
The wall is a nice place for a peaceful and quiet walk with all the trees & gardens surrounding the wall.
Canterbury City Wall offers a fantastic view across the city, and can be a good choice for a casual walk. Its history combined with its proximity to the city centre makes this a rather unique part of English heritage. A great place to peoplewatch!
Being a high up wall surrounding the city, access involves a steep slope. Once on top, the path is smooth. The wall is wide enough for a few people to walk or pass alongside each other.
The walls you see today were built by the Romans approximately between 270 and 280 AD which surrounded the City then called Duverovernum Cantiacorum by the Then Roman inhabitants......Back then there would have been guarded gates to protect the City from attack’s from the Vikings and other invaders......In the 11th century the Normans took the City it is said without much resistance.....In 1363 the walls were restored with new stone to reinforce the old original stone work,when it was first constructed there were 24 towers.....What you see now has remained after many conflicts the last being bombed by the Germans in the Second World War......Now you can enjoy lovely walks along the Canterbury City wall that remains and take in all the history this lovely place has to offer.👍
Nice place for a walk with nice views
Great Wall walk with things to do along the way.
Castle
Canterbury Castle, a remarkable remnant of history, was originally erected by William the Conqueror around 1070. This ancient fortress has witnessed centuries of change, particularly during the 12th century when Henry II transformed it into one of Kent's key fortifications. Although time and conflict have taken their toll on its structure, visitors can still explore its grounds and ascend partway up one of the towers to appreciate its impressive scale and historical significance.
*PLEASE NOTE: Canterbury Castle is closed to the public and requires work to make it safe for public visitation. PLEASE DO NOT VISIT.
I had the opportunity as part of a class to go to Canterbury Castle and I was amazed by the quality of the remains. Although none of the floors, furniture and the top level survives, the castles' outer shell is bueatifully kept and stands as a welcome accompaniment to Canterbury's other historical sites. I hope it will soon be reopened; it deserves to be appreciate for the Anglo-Norman mavel it is.
George K — Google review
The Castle is impressive and has a lot of history to learn about it. Disappointing were the entry prices adults have to pay £17.00, one adult can take 2 Kids for free. It's a fair price because the tickets are valid for a year. But realistically you won't come to visit it again, so it's expensive just for a look inside. Nice staff though.
Unfortunately, the castle was not open to visitors during our visit, as it’s currently undergoing renovation. It’s completely hidden behind scaffolding, so there’s really nothing to see—even from the outside. There’s no clear or obvious information available online about the closure, which makes it difficult to plan a visit.
Nothing to see for the foreseeable future! I thought at this stage maybe we'd be able to see a little bit of the castle again but no. Hope to update this review and grade before too long but it looks like we're in for a long one.
Unfortunately the castle is closed due to it being unsafe. You can get a little bit of a view of it from the one side. My two star review is no reflection of the castle itself as I'm sure once it is made safe it will be a very interesting place.
The castle was completely covered in scaffolding and marked as temporarily closed on maps — so no entry or views this time. A bit of a letdown, but the area around it was still nice for a short walk. Hopefully better once restoration’s done!
I would recommend a visit if you are near it. Historical place to contemplate, has good info displayed, very interesting; not that much to look into, in 10 mins you can explore most of the main bits . And unfortunately it has had restricted access in recent times (I think for health and safety reasons); also it does seem to cost the local council a lot to maintain?, but I'd be interested to get data on how many visitors there are and if it will be economically beneficial in the future. Maybe could help college students with some research projects. Overall it's okay and worth a visit, but it's nothing overwhelming, so don't expect much.
For lovers of history, Canterbury Cathedral is a fascinating place to visit, with over 1400 years of history to delve into. Amazing medieval architecture, and stained glass windows! Worth the journey from Sheffield.
Canterbury, United Kingdom•
Performing arts theater
Concerts & Shows
Cafe
Live music venue
Theaters
The Marlowe Theatre in Canterbury is a modern and vibrant performing arts venue named after the renowned playwright Christopher Marlowe. Originally established in the 1930s, it underwent a complete reconstruction and reopened in 2011. The theater hosts an array of performances including West End musicals, plays, concerts, comedy shows, and family-friendly events.
The Marlowe theatre. one of mine and #1 daughters favourite place! we went to see Rocky Horror today and the show was second to none. Staff as ever, amazing! the live band and the tech guys in charge of lighting and set changes were faultless! Another A grade show! if you haven't been, treat yourself. You will not be let down
Dee E — Google review
The Marlowe theatre is a lovely newer building among the historic area around it. There are a few disabled parking spots just outside the entrance.
There was a spot selling merch for the show (Rocky Horror) and a bar.
The seats were comfortable and the stage was large and designed well.
The show was great and well done everybody!
Staff were very friendly. Toilets are clean.
Love going to the theatre... because I'm short, sometimes I struggle to see among the heads but yesterday I tried one of those cushions they provide and it was much better and SO comfy. Treat yourself to a night out! Oh! And we had dinner at the green room and it was delicious 😋
Lovely Theatre. Friendly staff. Comfortable seats. Bat out of Hell is an amazing show. There is so much talent on stage. We saw it being filmed for Cinemas.
Very good venue, well organised and spacious seating. Excellent selection of top quality shows. Highly recommended
My husband and I went to the Marlowe recently. Whilst there are steps up to the theatre from the street, there is also a slope for those with mobility issues. Our seats at the back of the stalls were comfortable and we had a good view of the stage. My husband has some mobility issues but the staggered steps were easy for his to access. A very enjoyable time
The Marlowe has some fabulous shows which never disappoint. Seats are a good, comfortable size. My only real gripe is the cost of their alcoholic beverages. While I may only have 1 glass of wine, I refuse to pay £11 for a 200ml bottle of prosecco, so do not purchase anything. This is my choice but its just far too expensive for me!!
Brilliant venue in the centre of Canterbury. Was pretty warm when I visited but inside was nice and cool. the only issue for me is the cost of parking nearby but this is not fault of this stunning venue.
The Friars, Canterbury, CT1 2AS, United Kingdom•
History museum
Sights & Landmarks
Self-catering accommodation
Historic Sites
Eastbridge Hospital of St Thomas the Martyr, located in Canterbury's Old City, is a historic religious hospital dating back to 1190. Originally built to provide hospitality for pilgrims visiting the shrine of Thomas Becket, it now serves as an almshouse for the elderly. The well-preserved facility offers tours and features notable Gothic archways and a 13th-century mural.
Beautiful medieval building with great guided tour from Perry followed by a visit to the Franciscan gardens next door. Wonderful afternoon in Canterbury
Jan A — Google review
This is an ancient hospital where pilgrims used to stay when visiting Canterbury. It also has an area of glass floor where you can see the river and even boats going underneath.
You can get a joint ticket with the neighboring gardens to save money.
Wonderful place with a rich history. Absolutely worth it to take a look inside, Both for the building as for the story. I found it very special that the river runs underneath the building.
I visited this after visiting Canterbury Cathedral and enjoyed it. There's lots of history to learn about the place. In one of the lower rooms you can actually see the boats going under building on the canal.
A rather disappointing medieval hospital maintained well by volunteers with nothing really worth seeing. No real history to be soaked up or expressed. The chapel above explains more but is a very much more modern example in comparison. Would of liked to of seen more atmosphere for my money!
Well worth having the tour guide for this little gem. Aran was very knowledgeable and made the trip interesting. I think we would have missed all the little details without him. The building is still being used and it was lovely to see a monk at the doorway.
Highly recommend and good value for money.
A peaceful quiet place full of history on the main shopping street in Canterbury. Don't miss the facinating wooden structured roof in the upper chapel. Well worth a visit.
Among the place to visit, once in Canterbury, there is Eastbridge Hospital.
Getting in, you will be transported to 800 years ago. Volunteer guides will tell you of pilgrims, rich families and faith. They are very friendly and you can see they love what they do.
The Hospital is one of the most important place in Canterbury.
If you have done the Camino de Santiago and you have been a pilgrim, you should visit this place. On the other hand, if you haven't, visiting the Hospital may be the start of that other adventure!
25 High St, Canterbury, CT1 2BD, United Kingdom•
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Museum
Specialty Museums
The Kent Museum of Freemasonry, located in Canterbury, offers a captivating journey into the history and legacy of Freemasonry. Visitors can explore a diverse array of artifacts, regalia, and documents that shed light on this ancient fraternity. The museum's collection includes historical masonic objects such as stained-glass windows and glassware, providing a deeper understanding of Freemasonry in Kent and beyond.
My wife and I made a visit to this wonderful museum. I was amazed at how much masonic memorabilia it contains and the volunteers looking after the musem were extremely helpful. There is so much information to take in I shall certainly have to visit again. If you are thinking of going some time give them a ring but it is free to enter - donations box inside.
David — Google review
U can donate by contact less card machine, very handy. All the staff were very welcoming and exhibition was explained in details and very enlightening.
Lovely helpful and informative guide took us round and shared really interesting history. Great visit, would recommend and it's free!
The website stated it was open but all locked up and no one answering the phone. Appreciate its run by volunteers but seems difficult to visit with any certainty; we have tried twice.
An excellent collection worth a visit for everyone interested or curious about Freemasonry.
Check the opening times with the museum (see the number on the picture) before visiting.
Today we arrived here at 2:52 but the museum was already closed (despite google maps stating opening time until 4pm)
This is a very nice place to see the history of The Freemasons throughout generations. It's educational.
If you interesting from free masons this is one of the places whare you can learn everything you need! There is many pictures and different symbols and sights!
St Peter's Pl, Canterbury, CT1 2DA, United Kingdom•
Temporarily Closed
Park
Nature & Parks
Gardens
Dane John Gardens is a historic city park in Canterbury, dating back to the 1500s. It offers stunning views of the city and features a section of the medieval city walls. The park is adorned with lime trees, creating a tranquil atmosphere away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along tree-lined paths, relax at the bandstand, or have a picnic in designated areas.
A wonderful spot just set aside from the hustle and bustle of Canterbury city centre. There is a fabulous Spanish/Mexican themed cafe that serves up a mean latte and some surprisingly good food. An excellent spot to pause before heading back into Canterbury for the history and shops!
Ian P — Google review
Dane John Gardens is a peaceful escape right in the middle of Canterbury. Climbing the ancient mound gives you an amazing view of the city — rooftops, cathedral spires, and tree-lined paths all in one glance. The ruins and earthworks here are remnants of Roman and Norman times, giving the place a quiet, timeless charm. Well-kept, relaxing, and full of history — it’s the kind of spot you don’t expect, but never forget.
Just a short stroll from Canterbury bus station, I found the perfect spot to pass some time before my bus arrived.
I spent a lovely time relaxing on a bench and taking a leisurely walk through the park. A charming little escape in the heart of the city!
Currently undergoing some remedial works. These gardens are generally a nice location to rest, take in some nature within the City, or allow the kids to enjoy the playground area. Not far from Canterbury East and equally to the heart of the City.
Beautifully located in the heart of Canterbury. Well tended gardens and park which attract a goid number of visitors.
And don't miss out on Don Juan's "South American " bar cafe...often open in the evening too.
We visited these gardens for a food & drink festival. Lots of food glorious food and drinks plus music. Loads of food stalls with all sorts of food and drinks, in Kent. It got very busy as the day went on. There was a busker stage with music, lots of seating. The main Bandstand with the Rock Choir very good sounds. Food that we had was tasty, wings, ribs, brisket, beers other food was available. Artisan cakes, breads, pies and coffee. The festival has been going for some years now it’s within the old city walls in Canterbury. Free entry to the festival. Enjoyable few hours. Price for food & drinks reasonable. We enjoyed our food.
I love this place. I came here as a kid and the place captivated me ever since. Lots of space, cafe is good and often plays music.
Lovely gardens that you can walk through or sit down and have a rest, kids can run around on the grass or play in the new little park. There is a nice little hut that you can get food and drinks but it isn't cheap to buy from. A there is a fountain.
Canterbury, CT1 2QU, United Kingdom•
Museum
Event venue
Architectural Buildings
Historic Sites
The Westgate Towers Museum & Viewpoint, located at the westernmost point of Canterbury's old city boundary, is a historic gateway and tower built in 1380. It is the largest surviving medieval gatehouse in England and offers a captivating journey through Canterbury's rich history. The museum showcases period artifacts and provides insight into the city's storied past, including its role as a defense structure during the Hundred Years War.
Westgate Parks, Canterbury – A Peaceful Riverside Retreat
Westgate Parks is a beautiful green space along the River Stour, just a short walk from Canterbury’s historic center. With well-maintained gardens, scenic walking trails, and a mix of formal and wild landscapes, it’s perfect for a relaxing stroll or a family outing. Highlights include the stunning Westgate Gardens, the ancient Oriental Plane tree, and the historic Westgate Towers. Whether you’re enjoying the riverside views, cycling the Great Stour Way, or unwinding in nature, this park offers a peaceful escape in the heart of the city.
Kazi K — Google review
Exceptional value for money (£3 for an adult), plenty of history, superb views over the city, extremely knowledgeable staff member, clearly passionate about the towers and their significance to the local area, went above and beyond answering questions and showing us around. Signage could be better regarding steepness of stairs (it is a historic building) but if you can, you should visit and support this museum.
First time visiting Canterbury, stumbled across Westgate towers museum. What an outstanding history this building has, but also the plethora of knowledge Bob had! Really gave a great insight into Canterbury and the unknown history
Interesting little gatehouse/ prison.
Lovely views from the top, but many stairs to climb and the door at the top can be tricky to navigate around whilst on the stairs.
Curator was very knowledgeable and easy to talk too.
Tiny gift shop selection in the corner.
The Westgate Tower is an old prison turned museum. You walk up stairs to the museum displays and pay a small fee to go up to the lookout tower. The staff member was very friendly.
The tower has really nice views of Canterbury.
It doesn’t take long but it’s worth a visit.
Great place to go and not very expensive at just 2 pounds a person. Great views from the top and some lovely exhibitions. Would recommend
It's a small museum. It is a museum that can be easily visited in a short time. There are historical military objects. It has a beautiful view from its tower, where you can see Canterbury panoramic. You should stop by to watch the city.
This place is a hidden gem!!! Drenched in history. An old goal in Westgate towers? I never knew it was there either! There is a restaurant, kinda attached to it. From a side door, you are suddenly pulled backwards a few hundred years!! At the very top, a panoramic view of Canterbury awaits. Fully recommend it. Hey, eat in the restaurant, entry to the museum is free!!
1 Pound Ln, Canterbury, CT1 2BZ, United Kingdom•
Temporarily Closed
affordable
Bar
Museums
Pub
Specialty Museums
The Canterbury Tales is a relaxed and cozy pub with an open log fire, serving real ales, cocktails, and comfort food. It's located in one of England's historic towns where visitors can follow in the footsteps of both the knights who clashed with Archbishop Becket and Geoffrey Chaucer's pilgrims. The town offers various activities for all ages, including interactive museums like The Canterbury Tales and the Roman Museum, as well as family-friendly cafes and eateries.
Great place. I go from time to time and am never disappointed. This time I arrived in Ceilidh night. Which was completely awesome.
John C — Google review
The beer was fine, but leaving the door open on a cold night was not a particularly welcoming atmosphere.
No food is served.
Very handy if you're visiting the Marlowe theatre opposite.
Service was fine but the pub stunk of damp, was very cold and the women’s toilets were mouldy. Not enjoyable for pre-theatre drinks. Could be a cosy little pub if it was cared for.
It’s not sure if it’s a pub or a disco/nightclub. No ales available. £6.40 a pint! You’re having a laugh! We’re in Canterbury, not London. One mouthful of substandard ipa and left. Please let someone who actually cares about their clientele take over.
Wondered into the Canterbury tales pub as just a stones throw from the marlowe theatre. Several pumps had run out so not much choice of beers. Pub was completely dead. Looked like the gents toilets was out of order so a bit of paper on the womens said unisex toilets. Was really cold inside the pub and smelt of dogs.
Got to experience folk music at its finest. Quaint bar worth a visit
Really interesting, the guides add humour and makes it an enjoyable experience...
Great location and simple in design and offerings. Definitely more of a "student vibe" but have to say they try their best to accommodate all.
Stick to what's on tap and don't deviate to cocktails and you'll be fine!
affordable
Brewpub
Bar
Brewery
The Foundry Brewpub in Canterbury is a casual and historic brewpub located in a former brick-lined factory. It offers a variety of ciders, ales, and spirits alongside global pub grub made with locally-sourced ingredients. The brewery and distillery tour provides insight into the craft process of creating unique beers and spirits, all made on-site using English barley. Visitors can enjoy freshly brewed ale while indulging in dishes like homemade pies and beer-battered fish for an authentic pub experience.
Great food, great service, amazing beer. Good vibes at the Foundry!
To start with the place looks really nice and the staff is so welcoming. Service was amazing, our waiter explained so much about the beer (they brew their own beer). As well as recommending on best options for food.
We went for beer tasting, and i went for the burger with bacon and stilton cheese. It was so freaking good and tasty and beer was very interesting and flavourful. The most special one was the 9.8% Alcohol (Porter, forgot the name).
In general a very fun and tasty experience.
Highly recommended 🙌
Meytar M — Google review
Really enjoyed the food and service here. We had a beef brisket sandwich and peri peri chicken sandwich - both hit the spot. The chips stayed nice and crunchy even after a while. Onion rings were mid.But the real winner was the cheesy garlic bread... it was so good we had to order it twice. Hands down the best garlic bread I've had so far. Tried their in house lager too, and that was good.
Great pub serving both cask and keg beer along with cider and lager. The beer was high quality. The staff were attentive and helpful. The food was fabulous. The steak pie and burger were our choice, very good but huge portions
My wife and I booked The Foundry Brewpub specifically for the Sunday roast and looking at previous reviews what I hoped would be great beer too.
When the phone rang a couple of hours ahead of our booking I thought it was going to be cancelling our reservation, we were surprised to be asked if we wanted roast lamb or roast beef as they were so busy they didn't want us to arrive and be sold out - now that is absolutely AMAZING service.
The roast were delicious along the two ales I had to accompany my meal.
Great service and atmosphere too.
Highly recommended.
Very nice place with a wide selection of locally produced beer. I had bubble and squeak as well as pie with mash which was very tasty. We tried several types of beer, I particularly liked the cider which might be the best one I have ever had!
Lovely place to escape the busy centre of Canterbury. Very nice beers and even better fish and chips. Friendly and helpful staff.
We ordered the local brew and they tasted really great and the food was delicious. The waiter from Wales is super friendly, knowledgeable and helpful in introducing great drink for our second round — loved it!
Enjoyed a delicious roast beef dinner here on Sunday. A huge thank you to the member of staff who phoned at midday asking if we wanted to pre-order the roast as you were so busy. The food was lovely and we really enjoyed dessert...the sticky toffee pudding does have the edge over the choc brownie though! Wonderful service and nice venue.
77 Stour St., Canterbury, CT1 2NR, United Kingdom•
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Boat tour agency
Historical landmark
Sightseeing tour agency
Tour agency
Canterbury Historic River Tours offers guided boat tours along the river, focusing on historic buildings, monuments, and literary sites. The 90-minute tour includes notable sites such as Canterbury Cathedral, the Buttermarket, the Marlowe Theatre, and the Crooked House. It's a great way to discover hidden gems while learning about the city's historical background in an entertaining manner. The tour provides a chance to soak up the history of Canterbury on foot and offers a 10% discount for guests.
Five star plus...what an excellent trip.
Have lived locally for a number of years and have always been interested ...so don't delay get a trip booked.
Our guide, Sean was totally amazing his charm personality and knowledge was outstanding.
He was polite courteous and very helpful.
The team certainly work hard to give a top class experience.
Fully recommend the trip and will certainly do it again as so much to absorb
Thank you
Rosemary C — Google review
Great customer service and interesting boat tour.
Our skipper was very interactive and shared some good facts. Could have had more history elements about Canterbury itself and not just what’s along the river.
The price was quite expensive for just 45mins but it was a lovely experience and the river is very beautiful.
Absolutely fantastic Guides. They are so knowledgeable about Canterbury. They remember everything off the top of their heads.
I have a disability affecting my legs, but I was able to go on a river tour. They helped me get on and off the boat, as well as making sure that everyone was safe and comfortable.
Well worth it, amazing!
had so much fun on this tour, despite quite heavy downpours! Our tour guide (Ahmed, i think) was very friendly and knowledgeable and answered any questions. Would highly recommend anyone who is interested in history or just keen to learn more about canterbury.
A great introduction to this beautiful city. The tour is really inexpensive ($17) but thorough and peaceful. It's amazing to see these bridges and walls that are hundreds and hundreds of years old. You learn a lot about the priests that inhabited this place, the Romans, the crazy medieval punishments--just a lovely tour, a must when in Canterbury 🇬🇧
We had a wonderful river cruise in Canterbury. Our guide was fantastic – friendly, positive, and very knowledgeable. It was fun and truly interesting to sail through the canals, almost like a little Venice. Highly recommended!
We had an amazing time on our tour, was one of the highlights of our trip to Canterbury! ⭐️ Ollie was our tour guide and he was absolutely amazing! He was incredibly friendly, made us all laugh, knew a mind boggling amount of facts, and answered all of our questions! You can tell he really enjoys his job and would definitely come back and do this again as there was still so much more history to talk about! Thank you Ollie for a great experience!
This was the favorite part of our trip to Canterbury! It was peaceful, historical, and beautiful. Ollie was an incredible guide! Full of knowledge and fun! We can’t recommend this enough!
The Kings Bridge, by Old Weavers House, St Peter's St, Canterbury CT1 2AT, United Kingdom•
affordable
Tea and coffee shop
Coffee shop
Restaurant
Tea house
Tiny Tim's Tearoom is a charming and traditional thirties-style tearoom located in Canterbury. It offers a quintessential English experience with its cozy ambiance, live piano music in the afternoons, and a delightful selection of freshly baked goodies for their traditional afternoon teas. The tearoom also serves breakfast and lunch options, including poached eggs on toast, toasted crumpets, and the traditional Kentish 'huffkin.'
Absolutely loved the place!! I had the £14 deal which included two scones and coffee/tea. It was so worth the price. The scones were such good size and they had so many varieties of coffee and teas available. The scones were absolutely delicious. The service was so quick as well. Will definitely be visiting back ❤️
Khushi J — Google review
A really quaint place right across from the Marlow Arcade Mall area. It was very busy on a Monday bank holiday weekend. Service as a result was a little slow but courteous staff. Extensive menu with a decent set of options for vegetarians and a really fresh selection of pastries/cakes.
Best afternoon tea we had during our honeymoon. After having a few in London, we kind of came to the conclusion that maybe we don't like afternoon tea very much... but glad we tried again at Tiny Tim's! Their scones are amazing. The teas offered here all tasted AMAZING! The best part? It was so much more affordable than any other place we went to for the experience. Seriously, some in London were like 80 pounds per person, but here it was like 25 pounds for a much better tasting one. It was quite busy when we went, so service was a bit spotty, but it was still fun. Worth a visit for sure!
Absolutely fabulous. Breakfast is superb and the place is very lovely. Great service too. The scones are delicious and served hot.
We went to Tiny Tim's Tearoom because it was recommended to us by friends.
We could pick a nice place ourselves. My husband took the cake with lemon and I went for the Pilgrim Scone. Very nice! We liked the decoration in this tearoom: all about autumn and NOT about Halloween. Well done!
This place was a vibe and overall the best Tea experiencei had in England. Relatively affordable afternoon tea compared to prices in London. Scones were huge and the staff was great. No wait either which was important as we came on a tour bus and had limited time.
I’ve been wanting to visit since their famous “Pudding Club”.
Popped in for lunch and was pleased to see it full and doing well. Ended up with a chicken huffkin each, tea, hot chocolate and a scone to share. Absolutely wonderful. Scones as big as your fist and the perfect balance of flavour.
This will be the sort of place to bring an older relative for an upscale afternoon tea they will talk about for years to come. We will be back.
cheese scone was divine. apple scone (special of the day) was decent. be warned the scones are massive!
34 St Margaret's St, Canterbury, CT1 2TG, United Kingdom•
affordable
Pub
Bar
British restaurant
The Lady Luck is a lively pub in Canterbury that transforms into a venue for alternative DJs, punk, and ska bands at night. The bar features a jukebox with punk, metal, and rock music and hosts frequent live music events. The menu offers rebellious options like chicken burgers with homemade honey rum BBQ sauce and roasted red peppers, as well as vegetarian choices such as BBQ pulled jackfruit burgers.
Was on the list to visit due to their vast vegan options. Was very much not disappointed. Great choices of food and drink, really friendly and lovely service and gorgeous desserts. Very much recommend for great food and wonderful vibes
Louise W — Google review
Lady Luck at Canterbury is a cozy Pub and a lively place in the evenings. They serve British classics along with vegetarian and vegan cuisine. We enjoyed Lager Beer, Cocktails, Fish & Chips, Onion Rings and Garlic Bread. They have indoor as well as outdoor seatings. The staff are friendly and helpful.
We stopped here for lunch and were absolutely blown away! The vegan options are incredible – so many dishes that I never usually get to have, which made choosing really exciting. It’s so refreshing to see a menu where everyone has plenty of choice. The food itself was delicious, especially the beer-battered onion rings (yes, vegan and absolutely amazing!).
On top of that, the service was just delightful – everyone was so kind and welcoming, which made the whole experience even better. Dog friendly and lovely garden!
Honestly, this is the perfect spot to come on a day out. Can’t recommend it highly enough!
Friendly, welcoming and helpful pub. Accommodated us, vegan, gf, dog and mobility aid with complete consideration. Top marks! Other half reports vegan gf pie was excellent. My carnivorous food was also great.
We come here every time we come to Canterbury and sometimes come to Canterbury purely to eat here. Staff are lovely and the food is always good and fair value. They have a huge vegetarian and vegan menu. The food is consistently good and doesn’t usually take too long. All our family and friends now also come here when in town.
Love this place! Me and my children always come here whenever we're in Canterbury. Best place to eat. Great food and good prices.
Well worth a look
We popped in for lunch today. We ordered vegan mushroom and ale pie with chips and The House burger. Both meals were tasty with good portions. Staff were friendly and I'll definitely be back to try their desserts.
An absolute gem of a pub with great decor and delicious food! We ordered the nachos, chicken and bacon salad, blt with triple cooked chips. It was all fabulous with generous portions. I will definitely return!
18 St Peter's St, Canterbury, CT1 2BQ, United Kingdom•
Garden
Nature & Parks
Historical landmark
Sacred & Religious Sites
Historic Sites
The Greyfriars Gardens are a lovely canal-side garden in the city of Canterbury, which follows a canal through the city. The gardens are quiet and peaceful, perfect for relaxing with a good book or boat ride.
What a haven of peace in a busy town. So friendly and welcoming. Bring the dog and have a picnic. Beautifully kept. Loved it. Reasonably priced too
Kate H — Google review
A hidden oasis in Canterbury! These gardens are beautiful, you enter them and instantly escape any noise from the high street. It is so peaceful there! And the gardens themselves are great. Definitely worth coming to if you feel like getting away from the crowds and being in a picturesque peaceful place. It also has an interesting history!
What an absolutely serene and unique destination! I've attached a snapshot of the receipt because not many people are aware of how to find it. To get there, just head through the charming 'green shop' located off 80 St Peter's Street! Trust me, it’s worth the visit!
Came here with a friend and we both loved seeing the gardens! Very well maintained with a reasonable ticket price. Definitely a hidden gem to Canterbury.
Went in on the off chance, perfect for picnics and dog friendly. As it's £4 per person to enter, it's very quiet and a great retreat from the centre
Greyfriars Gardens are trulley scenic and calm place for taking a moment away from the busy life.
I found the gardens disappointing, the chapel very interesting. Gardens not maintained as of visit September 2025. Pleasant and green, peaceful but not a garden that should be charging entrance fees. The image inside the shop of the gardens is misleading. It needs far more plants and interesting planting and care. The advertised opening times are not adhered to and the garden closed early at 3pm on at least two days of my short 3 day stay in Canterbury. The free War Memorial garden is of more interest to plant lovers.
A wonderful garden within the centre of Canterbury with a wealth of historic value. The garden grounds are beautifully kept. It is very scenic, whilst walking through and enjoying the fragrant smells, forgetting that just through what appears as a shop front is the high street. Would definitely recommend giving this place a visit
60 St Peter's St, Canterbury, CT1 2BE, United Kingdom•
Historical landmark
Christchurch Gate is the main front gatehouse to Canterbury Cathedral, located on the Buttermarket. Dating back to the 1520s, it features intricate details such as angels holding images of the Passion of Christ and heraldry shields including Catherine of Aragon and King Henry VII. The gate also boasts a plethora of gargoyles and a mermaid, with a bronze statue of Christ currently undergoing restoration.
Christ Church Gate, a highly decorated ceremonial gatehouse originally built to celebrate the marriage of Arthur, Prince of Wales, to Catherine of Aragon in 1502. Arthur, unfortunately, died a few months later.
Christ Church Gateway is an extraordinary monument; it is highly embellished and decorated. Love the detailex work on gate. Christ statue is a modern piece of art. It was replaced with original one which was destroyed in civil war.
Its free for public to visit and have a look in history. Worth to visit and highly recommend .
Win T — Google review
Bottom section covered in scaffolding but still impressive.
The main front gatehouse to the cathedral on the Buttermarket, a cobbled area.
Thought to date from the 1520s. Newly restored. There are two main rows, the higher one angels holding images of the Passion of Christ. The lower row has heraldry shields including Catherine of Aragon, King Henry VII. A plethora of gargoyles and even a mermaid. The bronze statue of Christ is still being restored. Beautiful wooden doors. Ticket office to the Cathedral entrance is to the right of the gate.
The entrance to the cathedral and gardens with police station inside. You need to buy your admission next door before going into grounds unless it's after 16.30.
As you approach this entrance to Canterbury Cathedral, you will have walked through the Christchurch gate, built in 1502, to celebrate the wedding of Prince Arthur Tudor to Catherine of aragon, Sadly Arthur died a few months later Making his younger brother Henry King. It took 20 years to complete. It is an incredible piece of architecture well worth seeing.
Nice experience I had. Definitely have to come back to follow a guide.
It’s historical. However, it is repairing that you can’t see the whole beautiful gate.
Currently not the entrance for Canterbury cathedral (that's just off to the side). But still a great photo opportunity and definitely worth spending an elongated amount of time admiring.
The level of detail in the architecture is incredible.
14 Sun St, Canterbury, CT1 2HX, United Kingdom•
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Chapel
Greyfriars Chapel, located in Canterbury, is a historical site that holds great significance as the only remaining part of the first Franciscan friary established in England in 1267. The chapel itself dates back to the 13th century and features remarkable wooden vaulted ceilings and exposed stonework. Visitors can also explore the Franciscan Gardens, which offer a tranquil setting for a leisurely stroll.
Summer review - I do believe it's closed during the winter months. Anyway...
I've been visiting Canterbury for many years, it was only recently I took my children for an exploration trip of the city. The first I heard of the Greyfriars chapel and gardens was during a river boat tour in which the guide pointed out the chapel and gave us an insight to its history.
Immediately afterwards we took it upon ourselves to locate the area. I must say even with what I'd consider to be is a pretty good internal compass I still resorted to using Google maps!
Our journey led us up an alleyway where we crossed a bridge next to a cafe - that also offered a type of boat tour - from here we entered the gardens.
They are quite small and contained. The river flows to the side of the garden and the chapel seats above the river where it obviously once harnessed the rivers flow, for what I do not yet know.
The chapel was closed, though I am unsure if you can publicly visit the chapel anyway.
We took refuge in the gardens for some time enjoying the tranquility of the well groomed foliage around us, forgetting for a minute that we were at the centre of a bustling city on a summers day, my kids were overwhelmed with a small robin that flew in to make our acquaintance and kept us company for our stay.
Unlike some the public parks of Canterbury, the gardens here weren't busy, nor littered with students. It was easy to be excited myself as I felt like i'd found a little treasure which had thus far escaped me. So to round it up, if you fancy a little time out, in a special place with some good history this is the place for you. Enjoy!
Roy F — Google review
Eastbridge is in the center of Canterbury and consists of three neighboring sites and buildings, Eastbridge Hospital, Greyfriars Chapel and Franciscan Gardens
The lovely Greyfriars Chapel is within the Franciscan Gardens.
To go in find:
The Greyfriars Lodge 6 Stour St (next to the Abode Hotel car park) and go into the entrance next to the lodge. The Franciscan Gardens are ahead over the river. The Chapel is to the left before you cross the river. The chapel is what remains of a large stone friary built between 1267 and 1325, although the site was vested to the city as the Friars could not own property . The Franciscan order suffered badly from the Black Death in the mid 14th century and the friary closed with the dissolution of the monasteries in 1538.
Open from Easter until 30th September 2019
The times are 10:30 to 16:00 Monday to Saturday only
Closed Sundays
Closed over the winter.
There is a service at 12:30 am every Wednesday – all welcome to the service. The Gate in Stour Street is opened at 12:00 to permit access to chapel for service only during winter closure.
went for my sons baptism but Jesus was not home :( slept the night tho 5 stars!
The most beautiful and peaceful gardens, a chapel full of history! Loved our visit, highly recommend it!
No idea about the chapel, but the grounds were fine. Maybe could have done with a little more care and less graffiti
Great place to relax and explore on a sunny day. It's opening hours can be a little erratic as it is not a public space.
there was a man here having a Wee otherwise the this place is betiful I do recommend 💗
Permanently Closed
Museum
The Canterbury Heritage Museum offers family-friendly exhibits showcasing the city's heritage and children's characters within a medieval hospital setting. The museum is housed in a lovely historic building, making it an interesting visit on its own. Visitors can explore the fascinating trip through time with interactive activities for kids, although it may be closed at times. The museum provides an overview of Canterbury's history with real treasures and informative displays, making it a little jewel worth discovering.
Went on a Saturday morning in beautiful Spring sunshine. Lovely heritage building, of interest by itself. I like the chronology, it makes the display easier to follow as there is ALOT of information. A fascinating trip through time. My little boys would love the activities but the museum was closed when we last visited. Take your kids and explore!
Shirley P — Google review
Interesting exhibits in a lovely historic building. Ideally go on a Wednesday and get their £10 ticket that covers both this and the Roman Museum
Fantastic museum with lots to discover and more if you are a tourist from abroad. A little jewel worth a visit.
Fantastic overview of Canterbury's history. Some real treasures and interactive activities for the kids.
Lovely historical pieces and information - A hidden gem
It is shut except for at half term in winter, but doesn't say that clearly.
Loved the wall frieze.
(Translated by Google) Very old and it's just one of those things you should see
(Original)
Sehr alt und es gehört einfach zu den Dingen die man sich ansehen sollte
Stour St., Canterbury, CT1 2NR, United Kingdom•
"The Canterbury Tales" is a visitor attraction in Canterbury that brings to life the characters and stories from Chaucer's famous work. The tour allows visitors to interact with costumed characters and pilgrims as they journey to St. Thomas Becket's shrine. The museum features authentic details, including realistic sounds and smells, creating an immersive experience. It offers an audio tour of five of Chaucer's tales, making visitors feel like they are in a medieval simulator.
Great fun and quite unusual taking one back to the middle ages with the sights and smells and of course the the quite unique tales good gift shop as well great lads serving on the day we were there and the other staff were also very friendly helpful and informative and and also wonderfully carried out there respective real place like true thespians
Nick Q — Google review
We were the only tour group there! It's an interesting, semi-interactive museum/exhibition with authentic details such as realistic sounds and smells! The staff are very enthusiastic and after reading other reviews, I don't think it's too dated, it's all part of the theme! The tales are well told and the paths were lit up with Christmas lights and trees! There are a few stairs so I'm not sure how disabled-friendly this is but perhaps they offer ramps/a different route! All set in a historical building, the price (around £10 per adult, a little less for 60+ seniors) was very reasonable for 50 minutes of a walk back into history!) English literature fans will enjoy this for sure.
The performance is 40 minutes, the first and last ten live and the rest recorded. The sets are well done, with lighting guiding the way through the stories. The staff was very polite and enthusiastic. We even had to ask for our senior discount and we're 70.
I had a fantastic time here, it brought one of my favorite pieces of literature to "life" and immersed you in a Middle English world. The staff were very friendly and indulged me in my nerdy behavior. The tour was awfully short and pretty corny for the price, but I'm thankful I got the experience. I would recommend this to any superfan of Chaucer, or anyone with no idea of what the Canterbury Tales are to get a brief overview and better understanding.
Very well done audio tour (child and adult versions) of five of Chaucers tales. Walking through does feel like a medieval simulator. Nice way to spend an hour in Canterbury.
It was a different experience. The staff was very polite and friendly. But I was thinking that it was like a little theatre show with real people and it was not. Mostly, There were mannequins inside and moving wooden parts instead of a real theatre. Besides the disappointment, I liked it but it could be a little cheaper.
Gives a good insight to a couple of the Canterbury Tales, but no real depth. You have to follow a set route round, but the staff are very good and made the experience worthwhile. Would recommend booking as it can get very busy during school holidays.
For the amount of money I paid I was disappointed . The place is too highly priced. The children got bored with listening to the phone story. There is not a lot for children to stay interested.
St Margaret's St, Canterbury, CT1 2TG, United Kingdom•
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