Canterbury, England: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Are you ready to explore the wonders of Canterbury? This city in England is full of hidden gems and famous sights. From the stunning Canterbury Cathedral to the fun Canterbury Tales Experience, you'll find a lot to love here. There is more to see besides these popular spots. Discover the Beaney House of Art & Knowledge, enjoy a walk in the beautiful Westgate Gardens, and taste delicious local food. It all makes Canterbury a great place to visit. So, are you ready to start exploring?

Canterbury is famous for its cathedral and its history as a pilgrimage site. Since the Middle Ages, people have visited here to honor Archbishop Thomas Becket. Today, it welcomes visitors with its historic buildings and lively culture. The city is perfect for a short visit or a longer stay because it's easy to get around on foot. We will show you the top attractions in our guide. This guide highlights everything from the best landmarks to the tastiest local foods.

Key Takeaways

• Discover the magnificent Canterbury Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of England's oldest cathedrals.
• Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Geoffrey Chaucer's Canterbury Tales at the immersive attraction.
• Explore the historic St. Augustine's Abbey, a crucial site in the spread of Christianity in England.
• Uncover hidden gems, such as the charming Westgate Gardens and the vibrant Marlowe Theatre, that showcase the city's multifaceted character.
• Indulge in the local cuisine and savor the flavors that make Canterbury's food scene so enticing.

Explore the Magnificent Canterbury Cathedral

The Canterbury Cathedral is the heart of the city and a top spot for all visitors. It's ancient, with more than 1,400 years of stories. This place has been key in shaping England's religion and politics.

Walking in, you feel like you're in a different era. You'll see the amazing Gothic architecture, such as the Romanesque crypt, the perpendicular nave, and the beautiful medieval stained glass windows.

Step into a Living History

Delve into the cathedral's deep history. You'll find yourself lost in its living story. It marks the place where Archbishop Thomas Becket was killed in 1170, making Canterbury a major pilgrimage site.

Marvel at the Gothic Architecture

The cathedral's Gothic architecture is simply breathtaking, standing strong for centuries. Everywhere you look, from the carvings to the ceilings, shows the builders' talent and hard work.

Witness the Site of Thomas Becket's Murder

Visit the place where Archbishop Thomas Becket was killed, setting off echoes around the world. Stand there and think about its huge role in England's past, both in faith and in politics.

Immerse Yourself in the Canterbury Tales Experience

No visit to Canterbury is complete without exploring The Canterbury Tales. Step into the past at the Canterbury Tales Attraction. Here, you'll travel with medieval pilgrims on their journey to Thomas Becket's shrine.

You'll see recreated scenes and hear stories that have fascinated people for ages. This experience lets you dive into Chaucer's legendary Canterbury Tales.

Relive Chaucer's Legendary Tales

Get lost in the stories of The Canterbury Tales at the attraction. You'll see the Miller's crazy actions, the Prioress's devoted life, and the Wife of Bath's smart plans. All this will feel so real, with modern tech and great storytelling.

You'll understand why this book is such a big part of English lit. It's a chance to explore Canterbury's cultural history in a unique way.

Explore the Recreated Medieval Village

Take a step further and visit the recreated medieval village. Imagine you're in Chaucer's time, wandering its streets and seeing its buildings. You'll also meet actors in period costume, adding to the atmosphere.

This hands-on experience makes the Canterbury Tales more than just reading. It helps you value Canterbury's historical and cultural importance.

Discover the Historic St. Augustine's Abbey

Within Canterbury lies the St. Augustine's Abbey, an important site in Christianity in England. Founded in 597 AD by St. Augustine, it marked the beginning of Christianity here. King's burials and the archbishops of Canterbury were housed here.

Uncover the Birthplace of Christianity in England

Today, you can visit the remains of this early Christian center. Explore the abbey church, buildings, and Roman walls. You'll learn about its role in England's Christian start.

Admire the Preserved Architectural Remains

The abbey's medieval architecture still stands, showing its past glory. See the church and monastic areas, feeling the site's former importance. It was a key place for faith and knowledge over the years.

Canterbury, England: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Canterbury is not just about the Canterbury Cathedral. It has much more to offer, from its rich history to the lively local cuisine. You can dive into the city's past with its medieval buildings, old pubs, and secret places like the Greyfriars Chapel and Franciscan Gardens.

Explore the City's Rich History

Discover Canterbury history at places like the Crooked House bookshop and the Lady Luck Bar. They show the city's fun and lively side. You'll find stories in the old buildings and narrow streets of Canterbury.

Uncover Hidden Gems

There's more to Canterbury than its well-known sights. Hidden gems like unique shops, cozy pubs, and lively cultural spots wait to be found. These surprises help you see the many sides of Canterbury.

Indulge in Local Cuisine

Don't miss out on Canterbury's food scene. Enjoy local favorites at The Refectory Kitchen or try global dishes. Canterbury's diverse restaurants celebrate the area's food traditions. It's a tasty way to explore the region's culinary roots.

Whether you love culture, the outdoors, or simply exploring, Canterbury has something for you. Check out our top picks for a perfect day in the city.

Wander Through the Picturesque Westgate Gardens

Step away from the busy streets of Canterbury's center. Explore the beautiful Westgate Gardens, among England's oldest parks. It's by the peaceful River Stour. Here, find a quiet place for a walk and cherish nature.

Enjoy a Scenic Riverside Stroll

Walking by the river, you enter a calm haven. It's a break from the city's usual spots. See lovely Victorian buildings and visit the Physic Garden, where medical plants grow.

Discover the Victorian Tower House

The Victorian Tower House is a key spot in the Gardens. This old building has a rich story. Spend some time learning about its role in Canterbury's heritage.

Experience the Vibrant Marlowe Theatre

The Marlowe Theatre celebrates Canterbury's rich literary and artistic legacy. It's named after playwright Christopher Marlowe, who has strong ties to the city. The venue is state-of-the-art, hosting various shows including West End musicals, plays, dance shows, and concerts.

Experience the lively cultural scene of Canterbury at the Marlowe Theatre. You can see the latest touring shows and feel the city's deep literary roots. Attending a show at the Marlowe Theatre is not just entertainment. It's a way to celebrate Canterbury's love for the arts.

Catch West End Musicals and Plays

The Marlowe Theatre is known for bringing top-quality productions to Canterbury. You'll see everything from lively musicals to serious dramas. There's something for everyone who loves theatre.

Explore Canterbury's Literary Legacy

Named after Christopher Marlowe, the Marlowe Theatre highlights Canterbury's literary heritage. You can see shows inspired by the city's literary past. Or, discover new works that continue Canterbury's creative legacy.

Savor the Local Flavors at The Refectory Kitchen

Canterbury's top spot for memorable brunch is The Refectory Kitchen. Run by the passionate brothers Dan and Graham, it's loved for its tasty dishes and cozy vibe. They cook with care, using local, high-quality ingredients.

The menu at The Refectory Kitchen is full of delicious surprises. You can dig into fluffy pancakes or try the creative overnight oats. These meals celebrate Kent's culinary heritage, giving you a real taste of the area. It's the ideal place to start your day or relax over a late breakfast and soak in the local flavors.

Explore the Beaney House of Art & Knowledge

In the middle of Canterbury, you'll find the Beaney House of Art & Knowledge. It mixes art, history, and knowledge to give guests a full experience. This Victorian building, listed at Grade II, has a top-notch art gallery. It's filled with paintings, sculptures, and more, showing off Canterbury's artistic legacy.

Appreciate Art and Artifacts

The Beaney isn't just about what's always there. It also puts on temporary exhibitions that spotlight local and global talent. These exhibits welcome budding and famous artists. Whether you're into the old stuff or the modern takes, the Beaney will awestruck you. It'll make you love Canterbury's lively cultural scene even more.

Engage in Temporary Exhibitions

If you love art or history, the Beaney is a place you shouldn't miss. Dive into the enchanting world of art and artifacts, plus discover always-changing temporary exhibitions. These shows highlight Canterbury's creative side in detailed ways.

Conclusion

Canterbury is a top English spot full of history, culture, and beauty. It brims with things to do. You can see Canterbury Cathedral's grandeur or dive into stories at the Canterbury Tales Attraction. These are just the start of its wonders.

There's more to find off the beaten path. Places like the scenic Westgate Gardens and lively Marlowe Theatre show Canterbury's many sides. Eating local food, exploring arts, and enjoying the riverbanks highlight this city’s amazing parts. Come see why Canterbury is a beloved Kent city.

Want culture, adventure, or just to enjoy Canterbury's beauty? This ancient city will leave you with unforgettable memories. It celebrates a rich past and lively present, offering something for everyone.