Less than an hour from London, with its cobbled streets, world-famous Cathedral and hidden gems, Canterbury was once one of medieval Europe’s great places of pilgrimage.
Our Canterbury Tales
For centuries, Canterbury has been a destination from which great stories are told. Historically these tales depicted the bloody history of its cathedral, which then evolved to encompass mead-soaked tales from pioneering pilgrims. Fast forward to the present day, the eclectic mix of emerging modern narratives derive from the minds of cinematic legends and the Instagram feeds of artists and artisans.
The cultural landscape of the modern City has been shaped by numerous historic discoveries across the centuries; all of which are proudly enshrined throughout Canterbury. Romans, Kings, Saints and Queens have all made their imprint on this part of Kent and much of this influence can be appreciated fully during visits to the UNESCO World Heritage Sites located in and around the City Walls.
Couple this rich heritage with a fantastic choice of Shopping, Breweries, River Tours, Vineyards, First-Class Accommodation and Restaurants to tick every culinary box – you have the perfect opportunity to lose yourself in one of the most Iconic Cities in the Country.
Your Canterbury Tales
We invite you behind the scenes to a story. Created centuries ago, by nature, by history, by people. It’s still being written today, every day. Lived and breathed, meticulously crafted.
Now is the time to create your chapter. To be the main character. Make your story, part of our story. #OurCanterburyTales
The City For Culture And Heritage
We have three UNESCO world heritage sites, Museums, several Art Galleries, a multitude of Theatres, a Castle, an Abbey and a World renowned Cathedral. As well as the famous Canterbury Tales, the City has also produced a number of classic literary characters such as Bagpuss, Rupert the Bear, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and James Bond. We are also recognised for our cultural contributions of eight Saints, four Playwrights, one Poet Laureate and one Black Knight; accomplishments which are highly regarded and celebrated throughout the City.
The City For Exploring
Canterbury resides within Kent’s designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and is home to a charming intersection of the Kentish Stour-England’s most historic River. With approximately 15 miles of surrounding Coastline, multiple Blue Flag Beaches and quaint seaside Towns only a short journey from the City Centre, visits to Canterbury have so much more to offer than just the Cityscape itself. For nature lovers, there are an abundance of trails and experiences to immerse in, including; The North Downs Way National Trail, Blean Ancient Woodlands and a number of independent Nature Reserves and Wildlife parks. These features make Canterbury’s City the perfect base to explore the nearby Coast and Countryside too!
The City For Indulgence
Canterbury has everything a keen shopper might need; from high-end designers and big brands to bespoke handmade and locally produced items. After a busy few hours of indulgence there is nothing better than unwinding with good company and refreshments of an equal standard. With so many options to choose from, it’s hard to know where your visit to Canterbury will take you! Perhaps it will be a delicious brunch on a Sun soaked terrace? A sophisticated Dinner in a Michelin recommended restaurant? Or maybe you’ll decide to simply skip the food and head straight to enjoy some live music and a specially crafted Cocktail in one of the Cities fabulous Bars?
