Canterbury Through the Ages
Canterbury has been a place of pilgrimage since the twelfth century, when Archbishop Thomas Becket was murdered in the cathedral. Geoffrey Chaucer immortalised the journey in The Canterbury Tales, and today the city continues to attract visitors from around the world to its magnificent cathedral, medieval streets, and ancient ruins.
Getting There
High-speed trains from London St Pancras reach Canterbury West in under one hour. Standard services from London Victoria take approximately 1 hour 30 minutes. Canterbury is also less than 30 minutes from the Channel Tunnel terminal at Folkestone, making it perfect for visitors arriving from continental Europe.
Canterbury Cathedral
The mother church of the Anglican Communion is a UNESCO World Heritage Site alongside the neighbouring St Augustine's Abbey and St Martin's Church. The cathedral is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, with stunning stained glass, atmospheric cloisters, and centuries of history in every stone. The site of Becket's martyrdom still draws pilgrims.
More to See
- Canterbury Tales attraction: A fun interactive journey through Chaucer's famous stories
- Westgate Towers: The largest surviving medieval city gate in England
- River Stour: Take a punt along the river through the heart of the old city
- St Augustine's Abbey: Atmospheric ruins of one of the oldest monasteries in England
- The Beaney House of Art and Knowledge: A free museum and gallery in the city centre
Food and Shopping
The medieval streets around the cathedral are filled with independent shops, tea rooms, and restaurants. The Goods Shed, a daily farmers' market next to Canterbury West station, is excellent for local produce and casual dining.
Day Trip or Overnight?
Canterbury can be visited as a day trip from London, but staying overnight lets you experience the city after the day-trippers leave. The evening atmosphere around the cathedral is magical.
Visit Canterbury
Get your UK ETA and add this historic city to your British journey.
