Canterbury
Canterbury
Canterbury is a historic city located in Kent, southeast England. It's mostly known for its impressive cathedral, which is one of the oldest and most famous Christian structures in England. The cathedral became a major pilgrimage site after the murder of Archbishop Thomas Becket in 1170, an event that inspired Chaucer's 'Canterbury Tales'.
Walking through Canterbury feels like stepping back in time with its medieval streets, ancient city walls, and timber-framed houses. The city center is pretty compact, making it easy to explore on foot. Besides the cathedral, there's the ruins of St Augustine's Abbey and St Martin's Church, which together form a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Canterbury has a vibrant atmosphere thanks to its large student population from the city's universities. This gives the place a youthful energy despite its ancient history. The mix of old and new is everywhere – historic pubs stand next to modern cafes, and traditional shops alongside contemporary boutiques.
The River Stour flows through the city center, adding to Canterbury's charm with riverside gardens and the opportunity to take boat tours. For literature fans, there's the Canterbury Tales attraction that brings Chaucer's stories to life. Canterbury manages to balance its significant historical importance with a relaxed, welcoming vibe that makes it a favorite for visitors exploring beyond London.
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Things to do in Canterbury
Top things to do in Canterbury by www.timeout.com
Where to stay in Canterbury
Best hotels in Canterbury:
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Hilton Canterbury (budget hotel)
Hilton Canterbury is ideally located in the center of this historic city, at 7 St. Margaret's Street. It’s just a 6-minute walk from Canterbury East Train Station and only five minutes from the iconic Canterbury Cathedral, making it easy to explore the area on foot. Its central setting places you close to local attractions, shops, and restaurants, which many travelers appreciate for convenience.
The rooms are designed with both comfort and practicality in mind. Each includes air conditioning, free WiFi, a flat-screen TV, and a work desk. Guests often highlight the thoughtful details like in-room tea and coffee facilities, comfortable beds, and clean, modern bathrooms. The breakfast selection is frequently praised for its variety, with full English, continental, and options catering to vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets—an ideal start before heading out to explore Canterbury.