From a dazzling Cathedral to stunning riverside walks, there’s plenty to see and do in Canterbury
From my home in the seaside town of Deal it is eighteen miles to Canterbury, and I’m lured there often by my love of its tangible history and show-stopping 11th century cathedral, ever the marvel no matter how many times you’ve stepped through the magnificent Christ Church Gate.
But this isn’t a city stuck in the past. Canterbury University students keep the café and pub scene on its toes, and brilliant new restaurants are opening all the time. So here are its best things to do; from cutesy tea-rooms and classy cocktail bars to wondering through the living museum of its Medieval back streets. –Kate Wickers
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Kate Wickers is a writer based in Deal, Kent. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines.
What is it? Unmissable and right at the heart of Canterbury city centre, this epic building is world renowned for a reason.
Why go? One of England’s oldest cathedrals is perhaps best known as the place where Archbishop Thomas Becket was murdered by knights of King Henry II in 1170. It has survived fire, the Restoration and general modernity – and yet its gothic towers and beautiful stained-glass windows remain as impressive today as they were a thousand years ago.
What is it? This wonky house is home to an amazing bookshop.
Why go? The unusual slant of Sir John Boys House, known locally as the Crooked House, has turned it into prime Instagram fodder. But once you’ve reeled off a few pics, head inside and visit the excellent Catching Lives Bookshop. It raises money to help those living on the streets of Canterbury and Kent. If you’re slightly concerned about its curious angles, fear not, despite appearances the structure is supported and completely safe and sturdy.
What is it? The rock and roll heart of Canterbury.
Why go? If you love great tunes, retro arcade games and craft ale, then Lady Luck is the place to be. Stick a few coins in the jukebox and get settled in before checking out the best in new live music and or hitting the dancefloor at one of its legendary club nights. And if you’re not keen on having a big one, there are board games, a beer garden and a decent menu – complete with veggie and vegan options.
What is it? One of Canterbury’s lesser-known highlights, a Victorian-era museum with some surprising exhibits.
Why go? For the joy of eccentricity alone it’s worth a snoop around this extraordinarily eclectic collection (the only place in Kent to see an Egyptian mummified cat). Among the Beaney House highlights are instagrammable relics like a two-headed shark, four-legged duckling, and a Narwhal tusk in a Cabinet of Curiosities, collected from the 18th century onwards when the British set off to explore (and plunder) the far reaches of the globe.
What is it? The best place in Canterbury to get afternoon tea.
Why go? This family-owned tearoom has a beautiful Art Deco-style frontage, 1930s soundtrack and, arguably, one of the best afternoon teas on offer in the city. Starting from just £18.95 per head, you have a range to pick from including High Tea, Afternoon Tea or Gentleman’s Tea – which comes with Kent real ale. If you fancy a lighter bite, try a scone. The recipe’s one that’s been passed down through generations of the owner’s family.
What is it? One of England's oldest parks, this is the place to bring a picnic on a summer afternoon.
Why go? Dotted around this lush and quintessentially English park is beautiful curiosities – the Victorian Tower House with all its grandeur and Roman past and the Physic Garden, filled with plants and flowers that once used for medicinal purposes medicine, as well as the meandering River Stour.
What is it? Traditionally inspired French cocktail and wine bar, located in the centre
Why go? Think bottle-lined shelves, dark wood panelling, candlelight, and cosy nooks in this welcoming little bar that offers ‘happy hour’ discounts from 4pm to 6pm. Popular with pre and post theatre-goers, and actors from the Marlowe Theatre, the Fig is the kind of place that you pop into for a spicy margarita (the best in town) and end up staying for a Mediterranean charcuterie board and a bottle of wine. The best seat to bag is at the bar to watch the cocktail makers in action.
Why go? Canterbury has a great food scene and if it's a brunch spot you're after, then look no further than The Refectory Kitchen. Fill up on its superb pancakes and try something different with its blood orange and coconut overnight oats. There's a big focus on local ingredients with the owners, brothers Dan and Graham, passionate about where the food they serve comes from.
What is it? A café serving up locally roasted artisan coffee.
Why go? Priding themselves on producing small batch roasts from their Canterbury base, Garage Coffee’s café is the place to get caffeinated if you're down for the day. Close to the river, grab a cup of their own-blend or a single origin before heading out for a stroll along the river. One for the coffee nerds.
Why go? Dating back to the fourteenth century and said to be built on Roman foundations, The Parrot is the oldest pub in Canterbury. It’s also one of the best. While its beer garden comes into its own in summer, it’s best enjoyed as the nights draw in, with open fires crackling and the low medieval beams adding to the ambience.
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