The 50 best places to go out in Canterbury (2024)

Sadly on this visit could not go inside the main cathedral because of a private event we could only go to the crypt and the gardens but for a mere £5 it was worth it. You still get to see the stunning architecture of the cathedral from the outside and the crypt has lots of great things to see with such a stunning herb garden. I would recommend that you always check for events before you have you heart set on seeing the cathedral just in case but this was still a lovely option!

Canterbury Cathedral is an absolute marvel of architecture and history, and I cannot recommend it highly enough. From the moment you set foot on the grounds, you are transported to another time and place, surrounded by stunning Gothic architecture and steeped in the rich cultural and religious history of England.Every detail of the cathedral is breathtaking, from the intricate carvings and stained glass windows to the soaring vaulted ceilings and meticulously maintained gardens. The sense of peace and serenity that permeates the cathedral is truly awe-inspiring, and I found myself completely absorbed in the beauty and history of the place.The knowledgeable and friendly staff are a testament to the cathedral's commitment to hospitality, and their willingness to share their expertise and passion for the cathedral's history and significance only adds to the overall experience. Whether you are a history buff, a religious pilgrim, or simply a lover of architecture and beauty, Canterbury Cathedral is an absolute must-see destination. I cannot imagine a more perfect way to spend a day than exploring this magnificent cathedral and all that it has to offer.

Beautiful and ancient cathedral. Stunning stained glass windows.. the cathedral is easily accessible from London and a high speed train takes you to Canterbury in about an hour. The cathedral is easy walking distance from the train station and an easy day trip to cover most of the town. Right now there is a quaint little Christmas market in the city Centre that’s fun to visit.

Really nice day out in Canterbury. The cathedral is not the most beautiful in the UK but very impressive with its Romanesque architecture. Plenty to see - took 1.5 hours without audio guide. £17 to get in and that’s an annual ticket which is good value. Kitch will worth a visit too for something for eat.

Lucky to have visited during a concert rehearsal and viewed the Cathedral with an epic orchestra & choir backing. Such a treat! Absolutely massive Cathedral full of history even for a non religious person as myself the architecture & stained glass are particular highlights. Tickets with gift aid donations are valid for a year of return visits.

Enjoyed the day roaming around Canterbury city center and Canterbury Cathedral. Although we had visited before, this time we went for our 1st boat trip around the canals. Really enjoyed the canal trip. Also enjoyed walking through the Free Libary and Art Gallery in the Oldest building. Enjoyed the Pubs and had a fab meal. Most people & staff were very friendly.

I beautiful old cathedral built in the Romanesque style. It is 1000 years old and absolutely amazing. The acoustics are incredible. A choir was singing and we could hear the songs even in the crypt. The don’t build them like this any more.The cathedral has great history (even a grisly murder) and famous people buried within.You approach the castle through the town of Canterbury, which has lots of shopping and food options. The town and cathedral draw a lot of traffic, so be prepared to wait in the weekends. We rented a car and made the drive ourselves and it wasn’t bad but if the thought of driving on the wrong side of the road isn’t appealing, there are many tour groups who go to Canterbury.The trip was fun and I would recommend a visit.

A very grand cathedral and easy access for anyone, dog friendly and you pay once and can go free for an entire year. You can buy tickets on entry. Under 18s are free to enter. There's grounds around the cathedral which are nice to have a walk around with it usually being fairly quiet. The streets around the cathedral are slightly busier but filled with cute shops and independent restaurants.

Canterbury Cathedral is an awe-inspiring historic masterpiece that truly takes your breath away with its remarkable architecture and profound sense of history. Stepping inside its ancient walls is an experience that transcends time, leaving you with an overwhelming sense of wonder.The cathedral's architecture is nothing short of amazing. Its soaring spires, intricate stained glass windows, and meticulously carved stone details are a testament to the skill and craftsmanship of the builders who created this sacred marvel. Every corner of the cathedral holds a piece of history, and the Gothic and Romanesque elements blend seamlessly to create a visually stunning masterpiece.Walking through the cathedral's hallowed halls and cloisters is an experience that words can hardly describe. The weight of centuries of history presses down on you, and you can't help but be moved by the sense of reverence and spirituality that permeates the air. It's a place where time seems to stand still, and you can't help but feel a profound connection to the past.I wholeheartedly recommend visiting Canterbury Cathedral to anyone who has the opportunity. It's not just a place of worship; it's a living testament to human achievement and spiritual devotion. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an architecture lover, or simply seeking a moment of reflection, Canterbury Cathedral is an absolute must-see. The feeling you experience when you walk through its old walls is truly unbelievable, and it's an experience that will stay with you long after you've left.

An absolutely beautiful cathedral riddled in such significant history! The staffers at the visitor center are so helpful and kind. Purchase a ticket there (you have to top up £5 for an audio guide) before you head in to the cathedral.The cathedral itself has plentiful stain glass windows and a direct link to how the England church was born.Do note that while strollers/buggies are allowed inside, there are still quite a number of stairs around which require you to carry your stroller/buggy up/down.The crypt was closed in the morning so we went for lunch nearby and came back just in time for it to be open. Photography isn’t allowed in the crypt.

Visited Canterbury Cathedral on a sunny day, January 16, 2024. Paid £17 for an adult ticket, opted for the full experience. Noticed ongoing restoration work, a testament to preservation efforts. The cathedral boasts extensive history; dedicated a few hours to explore, amidst the grey surroundings. The sound of someone playing the organs added a sublime touch, enhancing the overall experience.

Our visit to Canterbury Cathedral was nothing short of glorious; every step within its hallowed halls felt like a blessing. As we marveled at the intricate craftsmanship of its Gothic architecture and the ethereal glow of its stained glass windows, we couldn’t help but feel a profound sense of reverence for the centuries of history and faith that permeated the space. It was a pilgrimage of the soul, filled with moments of quiet contemplation and overwhelming gratitude for the opportunity to witness such magnificence.From the tranquil cloisters to the resplendent choir, every corner of Canterbury Cathedral seemed to radiate with a divine presence, enveloping us in a sense of peace and joy that lingered long after our visit had ended. It was truly one of the best experiences of our lives, leaving us feeling both humbled and uplifted by the sheer majesty of this sacred place. Canterbury Cathedral is indeed a must-visit destination—a glorious testament to the enduring power of faith and the beauty of human creativity.As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Canterbury Cathedral’s significance transcends national boundaries, embodying universal values of cultural and historical importance.Canterbury Cathedral holds a special place in the cultural heritage of England. It has inspired countless works of literature, including Geoffrey Chaucer’s iconic Canterbury Tales, which immortalizes the journey of pilgrims to this sacred site. Today, visitors from around the world flock to Canterbury Cathedral to marvel at its architectural splendor, explore its rich history, and experience a sense of awe and wonder in its hallowed halls. A visit to this monumental landmark is not just an encounter with the past but a journey into the very heart of England’s spiritual and cultural identity.

It was chilly but sunny weather. Beautiful cathedral, incredibly built and decorated. We had a great historical time and enjoyed. If you do gift aid when you buy the ticket, you can have 1year anytime visiting ticket. Inside out side it took around 2hours for us. It’s worth to pay and visit. Great 👍

Entry fee is £14 for an adult. Absolutely stunning Cathedral. You can almost feel the history! You can have a guided tour or an audio/ media tour. The guides really know their stuff! Or you can just wander on your own. Thoroughly enjoyed our afternoon here. Would highly recommend a visit.

Beautiful Cathedral! I was here for a ceremony so didn't get a chance to explore the building but the main sanctuary is beautiful. Quick note, there are no toilets in the Cathedral but they have a very clean washroom in separate building just 3 minutes from the entrance.

Such a stunning Cathedral. We spent around 3 hours inside, there is so much to see and admire. In the Crypt no photos or videos are allowed, and it's a silent prayerful space. One can take photos in the rest of the massive cathedral.There is only a small kiosk for coffee and tea on the property, but so many restaurants and Coffee shops are very close.The Cathedral is undergoing constant restoration and maintenance, parts of it outside were covered by scaffolding. There are some beautifully restored, clean walls where the workmen have already done their magic. The cathedral requires £18,000 per DAY to run, so donations are welcome.

The cathedral is nice looking and the grounds are well maintained. Inside the cathedral the guides are not proactive and don't share information on the site unless prompted (a lot). The day of our visit we saw students graduating, surrounded by their very proud parents. The atmosphere was a little chaotic and but I am sure that this is not usually the case. Whilst viewing an exhibit, there was a fire alarm, I asked the guide if we should leave and where the muster point was. She didn't have an answer. I made the call to evacuate. The fire alarm stopped sounding, so we went back to touring the cathedral. About five minutes later, the alarm sounded again. At this point another of the cathedral's guides came running in and shouting "get out, get out!". The tourists began running. My children were very scared. We CALMLY walked out and when we (again) asked where the muster point was, was told to follow the crowd (!) Unbelievable. We waited until the alarm went off and then when the crowds started piling back in, we asked a guide if we could return. She looked around and said: "I guess so". Upon entering the cathedral, we saw the guide who incited the panic and reminded him that panic causes more accidents. He informed us that the way he behaved this was company protocol!The rest of the visit was spent viewing the cathedral and using Google as my guide. Definitely not worth the money. Particularly, as the staff are not trained in what to do and how to behave in emergencies.

Canterbury is a place where history and modern life coexist harmoniously. It’s a journey through time and a delightful destination for anyone seeking a taste of old-world charm in the UK.Beyond the cathedral, the city’s cobbled streets and medieval buildings create an enchanting atmosphere. The Canterbury Tales attraction brings Chaucer’s tales to life, and you can explore the medieval architecture of Westgate Towers.Finally, Canterbury’s friendly and welcoming atmosphere makes it an ideal destination for travelers seeking both history and contemporary experiences. Whether you’re wandering its ancient streets or enjoying a meal in one of its charming restaurants, Canterbury invites you to savor the best of the past and present.Punting tours in Canterbury often take you past several iconic landmarks, including the stunning Canterbury Cathedral, historic buildings, and beautiful gardens.Highly recommended place to visit!

Unmissable experience for first time visitors, it's no coincidence that this has been a site of pilgrimage for over a millennium.The cathedral with it's iconic mixture of centuries of building styles is worth the price of admission on its own, and the daily services, performances and special events make return trips well worth it.Note that an admission ticket is good for a full year.

Amazing Cathedral; spare minimum 2 hours to enjoy . It’s the second time We visited; both times We were accompanied by our dog. Yes; this is a Dog Friendly attraction just for that 5 Stars . We wanted to take the tours they have available but unfortunately they don’t allow dogs on the guided tours . We payed for the audio tour and it was really good and easy to navigate ; they have it available in few languages ( No Spanish ) .All in all very happy with the service and be able to visit an architectural wonder; while visiting Canterbury.

So much to see!The precincts and gardens should not be missed either.So much history to catch up with around the cathedral.Pride of place the story of Thomas Beckett. Also a must see is the Anthony Gormley in the crypt.

We were a bit unsure about buying tickets to enter, but trust me, it's totally worth it! 😊 It's not just the church you get to see; it's the entire surrounding area, including beautiful gardens. Inside, you'll find unique pieces of history displayed in the crypt and picturesque ruins of the former monastery. It took us about an hour and a half to explore everything fully. Plus, it's a UNESCO World Heritage site! 🌟🏛️

Amazing Cathedral; spare minimum 2 hours to enjoy and see the entire cathedralEngland’s first Cathedral and one of the most visited historic sites.Paid £17 for an adult ticket. Beautiful and ancient cathedralYou must see when you coming in Canterbury

An amazing piece of history and well worth a visit. It costs £17 to get in but this is valid for a whole year. I paid £5 to go on a guided tour which was 1.5 hours. Worth every penny. Our guide was Kirsten, a very knowledgeable and good humoured lady. I felt very engaged and learned a great deal.The cathedral is enormous and I could easily of spent the whole day there as there is so much to see.Thomas Becket,The Black Prince and the influence of William of Normandy and many others give this cathedral a long and very rich history.It is a working cathedral and its open for various services and also for private reflection and prayers.

Canterbury Cathedral is not just a building; it's a living testament to over 1,400 years of history, faith, and artistry. Stepping through its grand entrance is akin to stepping into a time machine, transporting you from the modern world to a realm steeped in medieval grandeur and spiritual significance.The sheer scale and intricate details of the cathedral are awe-inspiring. From the soaring Gothic arches and stained glass windows that shimmer with vibrant colors to the Romanesque crypt with its echoing silence, every corner whispers stories of the past. Wandering through the cloisters, with their tranquil gardens and peaceful atmosphere, provides a moment of respite and reflection.Canterbury Cathedral is a must-visit for anyone interested in history, architecture, or simply seeking a unique and uplifting experience. It's a place that resonates with the soul, leaving you with a sense of awe and wonder long after you leave its hallowed halls.

Beautiful cathedral. It’s undergoing a lot of renovation work currently and there are some interesting updates on this around the building. It’s not a very serene space as there are lots of tourists around and about but it is still a vast and impressive space. Be warned lots of steps, it’s quite cold even in the summer and it is very expensive to get in

Historical cathedral with some good activities inside. Once you get inside you can see the herb garden, dark room, tombs of ancient people and so on. You also have a prayer room inside. You can spend some time peacefully.

If you have the opportunity to go - do not miss it!If you stay in the Cathedral Lodge you get free entry. We stayed there, but paid an additional £5pp for the tour - and it was absolutely worth it!Our tour guide - Michael Cross - was top notch! Highly recommend!The cathedral is so big and grand, there just aren't the right words to do it justice.Beautiful place - be sure to go!

Fabulous historic cathedral (see Thomas Becket) plus plenty of interesting memorials to curious people. Monument to Becket is striking. Stained glass and cloisters beautiful. Tea shop was closed by 4pm (so no comment and no comment-err? Such a British tradition to close doors to cafés when visitors are in greatest need) but the visitors’ shop was open and had good stuff.

England’s first Cathedral and one of the most visited historic sites.The entry ticket is valid for over many months, so you can revisit if you keep the entry ticket.Read the daily schedule before visiting, because some of the areas are only open at certain times of the day, there are also some events happening on certain days to be aware of.You can easily spend a couple of hours here. The souvenir store is good, and there are shops and restaurants nearby in the city Centre.

I think the entrance fee can be off-putting to a few people. However, you can go back as many times as you like for a year, so it evens out. We live near Canterbury, so now have the year's pass.How many times do you want to visit the same place? I thought that, but each time we go, you see something different. Also, there are a number of very knowledgeable guides there. One of these, Michael, gave us a real insight of a specific time/part of the Cathedral. Very interesting.

Canterbury Cathedral is a magnificent example of medieval architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors are consistently impressed by its grandeur, intricate details, and spiritual ambiance. The cathedral's historical significance as the seat of the Archbishop of Canterbury and its connection to the Canterbury Tales add depth to the visitor experience. Whether you're interested in religious history, architecture, or simply appreciating awe-inspiring beauty, Canterbury Cathedral is a must-visit destination.