Canterbury is a historic city located in southeast England, known for its stunning architecture and rich cultural heritage. It is a popular tourist destination for visitors from all over the world, offering a range of cafes, bars, restaurants, historic locations, nearby zoos, rivers, walks, historic monuments, and other attractions.
Cafes, Bars and Restaurants:
Canterbury has a diverse range of cafes, bars and restaurants, catering to a variety of tastes and budgets. Some popular options include:
The Goods Shed: A farmers’ market and restaurant offering locally-sourced produce and a daily-changing menu.
The Refectory Kitchen: A charming cafe located within the historic Canterbury Cathedral, offering a range of sandwiches, cakes, and drinks.
The Pound: A gastropub located in a historic building, offering a range of beers, wines, and classic British dishes.
The Ambrette: An award-winning restaurant serving contemporary Indian cuisine with a modern twist.
The Old Weavers: A cosy cafe serving homemade cakes, light bites, and afternoon tea.
Historic Locations and Monuments:
Canterbury is home to a range of historic locations and monuments, including:
Canterbury Cathedral: A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most famous Christian structures in the world. It is the seat of the Archbishop of Canterbury and has been a place of pilgrimage for over 1,000 years.
St Augustine’s Abbey: A ruined abbey dating back to the 6th century, located just outside the city walls.
The Canterbury Roman Museum: A museum showcasing the history of the city’s Roman past, including a reconstructed Roman townhouse and a range of artefacts.
The Westgate Towers: A medieval gatehouse that is now a museum, offering panoramic views of the city from its rooftop.
Nearby Zoos, Rivers and Walks:
There are also plenty of nearby attractions to explore, such as:
Howletts Wild Animal Park: A popular zoo located just outside the city, home to over 400 animals including gorillas, tigers, and elephants.
The River Stour: A beautiful river that flows through Canterbury, offering scenic walks and boat trips.
The Canterbury Historic River Tours: A guided boat tour of the River Stour, offering an alternative way to see the city’s historic sites.
Whitstable and Beaches:
For those looking to explore beyond Canterbury, the coastal town of Whitstable is just a short drive or train journey away. This charming town is famous for its oysters, seafood, and beautiful beaches. Some popular activities include:
Whitstable Harbour: A picturesque working harbour with a range of seafood restaurants and quirky shops.
Tankerton Beach: A peaceful shingle beach with a promenade and colourful beach huts.
The Crab and Winkle Way: A scenic walking and cycling route that runs between Canterbury and Whitstable, following the route of an old railway line.
Farmers Markets:
Finally, for those who want to experience the best of local produce, Canterbury also has a range of farmers’ markets to explore. These include:
The Goods Shed Farmers’ Market: A weekly market selling fresh produce, artisan breads, and locally-made crafts.
The Canterbury Farmers’ Market: A monthly market selling a range of locally-sourced meat, fish, fruit, and vegetables.