Destination of the Month: Canterbury

History, culture and fantastic architecture collide in Kent's stunning cathedral city

Words by Susie Kearley

Canterbury is a city of impressive architecture and magnificent sights. It's steeped in history and is particularly famous for its cathedral and its association with Geoffrey Chaucer's iconic Canterbury Tales.

There's a Canterbury Tales attraction in the city centre: a walk-through exhibition that brings to life some characters in Chaucer's books. It has live actors and tells stories of love, jealousy and trickery.

Canterbury Cathedral towers majestically above the city. It costs £12.50 to get inside, but you can join a service for free and do a bit of feel-good singing while you're there! Towering Gothic arches, stained-glass windows, and enchanting organ music combine to create an atmosphere of 'spiritual tranquillity'.

Elsewhere, among the busy shopping streets, you'll find the Beany House of Art & Knowledge, with picture galleries on two floors, treasures from around the world, a section on natural history, and a kids' gallery.

The ruins of Canterbury Castle are free to explore, and you can walk along the old city walls. History buffs will enjoy Canterbury's impressive Roman Museum, too!

Westgate Gardens are worth a peek; you can walk beside the canal, surrounded by blooming flowers, and see Westgate Towers, the city's magnificent 600-year-old gatehouse.

Along the Kent coast, visit Herne Bay, the Turner Contemporary, Deal Castle, Dover Castle, The White Cliffs of Dover, or enjoy Folkestone’s seaside charm. Inland attractions include Kent Life and Howlett’s Wild Animal Park.

Where to Stay

Canterbury Camping & Caravanning Club Site
Bekesbourne Lane, Canterbury, Kent CT5 2RY
T 01227 463216
W campingandcaravanningclub.co.uk
OPEN 1 January to 31 December
​PRICE £29.60 members (£44.20 non-members), Prices for two nights minimum

For those wishing to explore Kent, this C&CC site is perfect. You can board a bus just outside the site into Canterbury or head out in the car to relax on beautiful beaches and grab a coffee in pretty little towns.