by Janis on 19th January 2018 / 2 comments
Follow in the footsteps of Kings, Saints & Scholars
In the heart of the "Garden of England", Canterbury encases so much rich history that even the local King's School can boast of being the oldest in the world.
The historic City of Canterbury is just under a one-hour journey on a train from London and an enjoyable day out for the family.
In no time at all, you’ll be immersing yourselves in all that is quintessentially English in the picturesque county of Kent.
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Where is Canterbury
How to get there
- By Train
You can catch a train from London St Pancras to Canterbury West Station, which takes around 1 hour.
- By Car
Canterbury is around 8 miles (12.8km) off Junction 7 of the M2 motorway. Parking: there are a few car parks in and around the city; however, they can be expensive. You may wish to choose ‘Park and Ride’.
Chaucer's Canterbury Tales
On pilgrimage to Thomas Becket's shrineThroughout Canterbury, there are charming references and reminders to the incredible 14th-century English poet Geoffrey Chaucer.
The Canterbury Tales
Geoffrey Chaucer created many remarkable literary works; however, one collection in particular that he is remembered for is The Canterbury Tales.
The collection comprises of 24 tales, each from an individual's perspective of their pilgrimage. Amongst the 24 were a Friar, a Shipman and a Physician.
Chaucer produced fascinating stories of the pilgrim’s lives and their journeys to Thomas Becket's shrine in Canterbury Cathedral.
Geoffrey Chaucer is interred in Poet’s Corner at Westminster Abbey, London.
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Arriving at Canterbury Cathedral
Christchurch Gate at The ButtermarketChaucer’s pilgrims would have arrived at Canterbury Cathedral entrance via the 'Bull Stake'. Now I don’t want to go into too much detail here, but bulls and baiting were involved. Thankfully the charming square had a name change around 200-years ago to 'The Buttermarket.'
The Buttermarket, Canterbury
This picturesque square is encircled by delightful historic buildings, which reveal the stunning Christchurch Gate. The spectacular and ornate entrance to Canterbury Cathedral.
The Christchurch Gate entrance to Canterbury Cathedral
The War Memorial
Today the Buttermarket’s emphasis is Canterbury’s War Memorial.
Visit some of Kent’s Historic Towns, Villages & Cities
Kent is not short of picturesque historic towns & villages, Why not check out our posts on those we've visited with tips & inspiration to get the most out of your visit?
There’s been a murder at Canterbury Cathedral
Thomas Becket was slain by King Henry II’s KnightsStrolling through Christchurch Gate, you’re are greeted by the magnificent Canterbury Cathedral. Culturally the centrepiece of the city and undoubtedly the most famous Christian building in England.
Canterbury Cathedral
Canterbury Cathedral was founded in AD 597; it was unfortunately destroyed by a fire in 1067, a year after the Norman Conquest. The cathedral was rebuilt entirely by 1077 to a design based closely on that of the Abbey of Saint-Étienne in Caen.
Canterbury Cathedral is not only the seat of the leader of the Church of England, the Archbishop of Canterbury, but it is also renowned for the shrine of Thomas Becket.
Inside the Cathedral
Where Thomas Becket was slain
Thomas Becket was murdered in the Cathedral by four of King Henry II’s Knights in 1170. A sculpture marks the spot where the Archbishop was killed.
The Tomb of the Black Prince
Wandering through the beautiful Cathedral are gorgeous stained-glass windows and a peaceful cloister. This holds the tomb of King Henry IV and also 'The Black Prince'.
Did you know?
The King's School, Canterbury
The oldest school in the worldThe King’s School was founded in AD 597, the same year as Canterbury Cathedral. This ancient school is acknowledged to be the oldest continuously operated school in the world.
A gatehouse in King's School, Canterbury
Within the King’s School grounds are some wonderful historic buildings. Including the schoolhouse dating from 1860 and the Norman Staircase is dating from the 12th century.
Historic Canterbury
The King’s School in Canterbury was followed seven years later in AD 604 by the world’s second-oldest continuously operated school, The King’s School in Rochester, Kent.
If you're intrigued by Kent's weird and wonderful history, or all unusual stories around the county, then take a peek at "Kent's Strangest Tales".
You won't be able to put it down, you can pick it up for your Kindle or in good old paperback.
The King's Mile, Canterbury
Explore the ancient picturesque lanesHeading out of King’s School gate and you are now in the heart of The King’s Mile. A collection of intriguing streets and cobble-stoned lanes all within eyeshot of the ancient cathedral.
Crowthers in the King's Mile
Sir John Boys House or the Crooked House
There are some fantastic independent shops and eateries around here. Although what may catch your eye is the quaint 17th-century half-timbered bookshop (on the corner of King St & Palace St). It has a bit of an odd angle about it (check out the front door).
The Sun Hotel, Canterbury
Another notable building in the King's Mile is the unique Sun Hotel, a Grade II listed building once visited by Charles Dickens.
The Sun Hotel was formerly The Little Inn, built-in 1503 and featured in the novel ‘David Copperfield’ by Charles Dickens; it became Micawber's ‘Little Inn’.
Escape for a few days
Are you looking for that ‘perfick’ holiday hideaway to relax in while you discover the Garden of England?
After a day exploring the Kent coast and its many historic castles enjoy one of the handpicked properties and unique retreats at Holiday Cottages.
Then came the French Huguenots to Canterbury
Discover the Old Weavers' House by the Great Stour riverJust off the King's Mile is Canterbury High Street. Along this historic street are many notable buildings, including Beaney House, which opened in 1899. It is now home to The Beaney House of Art and Knowledge. It is a free museum, art gallery and library (definitely worth a visit).
Beaney House of Art and Knowledge
Ambling along the High Street, you'll also notice the Old Weavers' House by the bridge over the Great Stour river.
The Old Weavers' House, Canterbury
During the 17th century, the French-speaking Protestant Huguenots arrived in the UK fleeing persecution. They introduced silk weaving to the City and soon made up 2,000 of Canterbury’s 5,000 population.
There is still a service, in French, held at the Huguenots chapel in Canterbury Cathedral every Sunday at 3:00pm.
If you look further down the High Street, you will see the Westgate
Our Kent road trips
If you’ve fallen in love with the county of Kent, we’ve created a few road trips around the “Garden of England” that we believe you will enjoy too.
Enter through Canterbury's city gatehouse
To The TowerThe medieval Westgate is the largest surviving city gatehouse in England. It is the last one of Canterbury's seven city gates remaining.
Westgate was constructed in 1380 of Kentish ragstone and still remains in use today as traffic passes through its ancient drum towers.
The Westgate
Canterbury was once a walled city which was erected by the Romans in the 1st-century AD.
Canterbury's City Walls
The original city wall was built around AD 300, while the remaining wall, which is in place today, dates from the 14th-century.
Adjacent to the Westgate Tower is Westgate Gardens, with the Guildhall, the Tower House and a 200-year-old Plane tree within it.
The Great Stour & Westgate gardens
Westgate Gardens is a really pleasant and peaceful park to stroll around. If you are visiting Canterbury at the right time of year, you may even be able to enjoy some punting on the river.
Tourist Information
Canterbury has a wide selection of places to eat & drink, from the heartwarming and traditional to the stylish and eclectic.
The Corner House – Set within a 16th Century Coach House in the heart of Canterbury, serving beautiful dishes using delicious Kent sourced produce.
Azouma Restaurant – An independent restaurant creating delectable Middle Eastern and Mediterranean dishes.
The Korean Cowgirl – Located just a short stroll from Canterbury Cathedral is a great smokehouse, serving delicious Texan cuisine and Korean fried chicken.
Where to stay in Canterbury
- Canterbury Cathedral Lodge – Fancy something a little different. Why not stay in the heart of the city, within the peaceful and private grounds of Canterbury Cathedral.
- The Hugo - Hotel Concept Canterbury - This central hotel in Canterbury offers room-only accommodation so that you can enjoy a delicious breakfast at a local street-side café.
Canterbury Castle Ruins
William the Conqueror's LegacyTo the south of Canterbury are the ruins of the ancient Norman Canterbury Castle, built originally of wood by William the Conqueror in motte-and-bailey style.
Canterbury Castle
Canterbury Castle was then later rebuilt in the early 12th-century of stone. Canterbury Castle was one of three Royal Castles built in Kent during the reign of Henry I. The other two famous fortresses are Rochester Castle and Dover Castle.
Unfortunately, Canterbury Castle has been closed to the public since 2018 due to deteriorating masonry.
Need a car?
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Your perfect accommodation
Have a leisurely browse through the wide range of options that Booking.com offer. From a secret hideaway to an elegant luxury hotel.
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Inspirational and informative post. I expect that a lot more Britons will be exploring British cities over the coming months, due to concerns about travelling abroad in the wake of the coronavirus. Your site has beautiful photos.
Thanks Stuart, there’s some fascinating history in Canterbury and the countryside all around it is beautiful. I think you’re right about home tourism, it’s certainly where will be venturing to in the short term.
The credit goes to Gary for the lovely photos.