Top things to do in Canterbury

Whether you are on a short city break or a longer summer holiday, there’s plenty to do!

Shopping

With a fantastic range of independent shops, your shopping day will be packed with treats.

If its gifts and tasty treats you are after, then make your way towards the Cathedral Gate and explore the beautiful mediaeval environs of Sun Street, Burgate, Borough, Palace Street and Northgate. Here you will find a host of independent shops offering everything from antiques and vintage, to the best local fudge and finest Kent made chocolate.

Top tips here are Frocks N Stocks on Burgate for vintage, The Crooked House bookshop and Golding Surplus on Palace Street, and Madame Oiseau the fantastic Chocolatier at No8 Borough.

Moo like a Monkey

Fenwick’s/ Whitefriars for big brands

Canterbury Cathedral

Just a few minute’s walk away from your accommodation, this stunning building, founded in 597 AD, will wow you with its amazing scale and beauty. Give yourself plenty of time to explore the interior of this truly special place taking in its incredible craftsmanship and history. Make sure you leave time for the gift shop, with an array of fine craft gifts and mementos to take away with you.

The Marlowe theatre

Just down the road from you, offering the best of UK theatre, including smash hit musicals from the west end, classical opera and ballet, the best new plays and outstanding comedians. Click here to go straight to their website, or pop in for a coffee in their bright and airy café The Greenroom, chat to the box office team and see what’s on.

The Beany House of Art and Knowledge

Housed in a stunning Arts and Crafts building on the high street, it offers a range of events, exhibitions and workshops for the whole family. Regular stars of the 70’s small screen on display are locals Bagpuss, Ivor the engine and the Clangars, alongside a stunning range of artefacts from the Canterbury collection.

West Gate Tower and Gardens

At the bottom of the road, this fantastic gateway is the largest surviving medieval gate house and prison in the UK and housed within it is both a museum and an amazing escape room based in the old police cells! Why not explore the museum, grab some lunch at the restaurant, then get locked into a game in the escape room.

Inflate And Play!

For when your kids need to burn up some energy head to the largest indoor soft play space in Canterbury, just outside the city centre.

Take a punt

Take your choice of punting tours around the River Stour in Canterbury, with several operators there are plenty of options. Check them out on the Visit Canterbury website or find them at their temporary stands along the high street.

Step into history

Guided walks

For a wealth of information on the ancient history of Canterbury, you can check out the Canterbury Archaeological Trust  which includes a list of key heritage buildings to see in Canterbury and a programme of lectures and excursions exploring the city.