Canterbury, located in the southeast of England, is a historic city famous for its cathedral, cobbled streets, and medieval architecture. But there’s more to Canterbury than just its past. The city has a vibrant culture, excellent restaurants, and plenty of interesting things to see and do. In this blog post, we will explore some unique and interesting activities to do in Canterbury.
Here are 10 Unique and Interesting Things to Do in Canterbury England
Explore Canterbury Cathedral
No trip to Canterbury is complete without a visit to the city’s most famous landmark, Canterbury Cathedral. The cathedral, which dates back to the 11th century, is an architectural masterpiece and an important pilgrimage site for Christians. Visitors can explore the cathedral’s intricate stone carvings, stained-glass windows, and towering bell tower. Guided tours are available, or visitors can explore the cathedral at their own pace with an audio guide.
Watch our Youtube video touring the Canterbury Cathedral and the city centre:
Visit the Dane John Gardens
The Dane John Gardens is a beautiful public park in the heart of Canterbury. The gardens feature a range of formal gardens, including a rose garden, a sunken garden, and a herb garden. Visitors can enjoy a picnic on the lawns, stroll through the gardens, and enjoy views of the city from the top of the park. Plus the Dane John Mound has one of the best views of the city and Cathedral.
Walk the Canterbury City Walls
Canterbury’s city walls date back to Roman times, and parts of the walls are still standing today. Visitors can take a leisurely walk along the walls and enjoy views of the city from a unique vantage point. The walls can be accessed from several points around the city, including the Westgate Towers.
Explore the Westgate Towers
The Westgate Towers are a pair of medieval gatehouses that date back to the 14th century. The towers have been beautifully restored and provide a fascinating insight into Canterbury’s history. Visitors can climb to the top of the towers for stunning views of the city and learn about the role of the towers in the city’s defense.
Drink Coffee Out of a Phone Box
La Cabina Coffee is a cozy, independent coffee shop located in the heart of Canterbury, England right by the Westgate Towers. The best part? The entire coffee shop is constructed out of iconic red telephone boxes. La Cabina offers a range of delicious coffee options and is the perfect way to enjoy a hot drink while soaking up the Canterbury atmosphere.
Go punting on the River Stour
Punting is a quintessential English pastime, and the River Stour is a perfect location for a leisurely punt. Visitors can hire a punt and glide along the river, taking in the sights of the city from the water. Punting is a relaxing way to see Canterbury and is popular with couples, families, and groups of friends.
Visit the Crooked House
The Crooked House, or the Sir John Boys House, is an askew half-timbered house situated at the far end of Palace Street. One look at it and you’d understand why it’s called the Crooked House. Dating back to the 17th century, the chimney structure was modified, causing it to lean more and more. A Charles Dickens quote adorns the building, which is fitting for its current tenant: a bookshop called Catching Lives.
Go shopping in the King’s Mile
The King’s Mile is a historic shopping district in Canterbury, featuring a range of independent shops, cafes, and restaurants. Visitors can explore the cobbled streets, browse the shops, and sample the local food and drink. The King’s Mile is a great place to pick up souvenirs, gifts, and unique items.
Visit the Canterbury Roman Museum
Canterbury has a rich Roman history, and the Canterbury Roman Museum provides an insight into the city’s past. The museum is located on the site of a Roman townhouse and includes exhibits showcasing Roman artifacts such as pottery, jewelry, and mosaics. Visitors can explore the remains of a Roman marketplace and see a recreated Roman garden.
Canterbury is a city with a rich history and a vibrant cultural scene. Visitors can explore the city’s famous landmarks, such as the cathedral and the Roman museum, or discover hidden gems, such as the Westgate Towers and the Dane John Gardens. Food tours, punting on the Stour, and ghost tours are just some of the many unique and interesting activities on offer in Canterbury. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or a lover of the arts, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful city.
Looking for more interesting places to visit in the UK? Check out our Find a Place Map.