Map Of Canterbury And Surrounding Area Travel Guide
Introduction
Canterbury and its surrounding areas are full of hidden gems waiting to be explored. With a rich history, stunning natural beauty, and vibrant cultural scene, there’s something for everyone in this part of England. Whether you’re interested in exploring historical landmarks, trying out the local cuisine, or embarking on outdoor adventures, this travel guide has got you covered!
Top Attractions
Canterbury Cathedral
The Canterbury Cathedral is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city and is a must-visit for anyone interested in history or architecture. This stunning cathedral has been a place of worship for over 1,400 years and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Wildwood Trust
The Wildwood Trust is a wildlife park and conservation charity that’s home to over 200 animals, including bears, wolves, and lynx. This is a great place to take the family and learn more about the local wildlife.
Hidden Gems
Whitstable
Whitstable is a charming seaside town just a few miles from Canterbury. This town is known for its beautiful beaches, fresh seafood, and quirky independent shops. Take a walk along the beach and enjoy some fish and chips at one of the local restaurants.
Chilham Village
Chilham Village is a hidden gem that’s often overlooked by tourists. This picturesque village is full of historic buildings, cute shops, and charming pubs. Take a stroll through the village and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Food Scene
The Goods Shed
The Goods Shed is a food market located in the heart of Canterbury. This market is home to over 50 local producers and offers a wide range of fresh produce, meat, and dairy products. There’s also a restaurant on-site that serves up delicious meals made with local ingredients.
The Sportsman
The Sportsman is a Michelin-starred restaurant located in the village of Seasalter. This restaurant is known for its creative menu that’s inspired by the local ingredients and traditional cooking methods.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Free Walking Tours
There are several free walking tours available in Canterbury that are a great way to explore the city without breaking the bank. These tours cover the history and culture of the city and are led by knowledgeable local guides.
Public Transport
Public transport in the Canterbury area is affordable and efficient. Consider taking the bus or train to explore the surrounding areas instead of renting a car.
Outdoor Adventures
Blean Woods National Nature Reserve
The Blean Woods National Nature Reserve is a beautiful woodland area that’s home to a wide range of flora and fauna. This is a great place to go hiking, bird-watching, or simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Canterbury Punting Company
The Canterbury Punting Company offers punting tours along the River Stour. This is a relaxing and scenic way to explore the city and learn more about its history.
Historical Landmarks
St. Augustine’s Abbey
St. Augustine’s Abbey is a ruined abbey that was founded in the 6th century. This site is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a must-visit for anyone interested in history.
Roman Museum
The Roman Museum is located in the heart of Canterbury and offers visitors a chance to learn more about the city’s Roman past. This museum is home to a wide range of artifacts, including mosaics, pottery, and coins.
Family-Friendly Activities
Howletts Wild Animal Park
Howletts Wild Animal Park is a family-friendly attraction that’s home to over 400 animals, including gorillas, tigers, and elephants. This park is also involved in conservation efforts and offers visitors a chance to learn more about the animals and their habitats.
Canterbury Tales
The Canterbury Tales is a family-friendly attraction that’s based on Chaucer’s famous book. Visitors can take a tour through the attraction and learn more about the stories and characters from the book.
Off-The-Beaten-Path Experiences
The Crab and Winkle Way
The Crab and Winkle Way is a scenic walking and cycling trail that runs from Canterbury to the seaside town of Whitstable. This trail follows an old railway line and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
The Westgate Towers Museum and Viewpoint
The Westgate Towers Museum and Viewpoint is a hidden gem that’s often overlooked by tourists. This museum is located in an old gatehouse and offers visitors a chance to learn more about the history of the city. The viewpoint at the top of the tower also offers stunning views of the city.
Natural Wonders
White Cliffs of Dover
The White Cliffs of Dover are a natural wonder that’s located just a short drive from Canterbury. These cliffs offer stunning views of the English Channel and are a great place to go hiking or simply enjoy the scenery.
Blean Woods National Nature Reserve
The Blean Woods National Nature Reserve is a beautiful woodland area that’s home to a wide range of flora and fauna. This is a great place to go hiking, bird-watching, or simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Vibrant Nightlife
The Cuban Canterbury
The Cuban Canterbury is a popular bar and nightclub that offers a wide range of cocktails and live music. This is a great place to go if you’re looking for a fun night out.
The Old Brewery Tavern
The Old Brewery Tavern is a traditional English pub that’s located in the heart of Canterbury. This pub offers a wide range of local beers and ales and is a great place to relax and unwind after a long day of sightseeing.
Local Markets
Canterbury Farmers’ Market
The Canterbury Farmers’ Market is a weekly market that’s held in the city center. This market is home to a wide range of local producers and offers fresh produce, meat, and dairy products.
Whitstable Farmers’ Market
The Whitstable Farmers’ Market is a monthly market that’s held in the seaside town of Whitstable. This market is known for its fresh seafood and local produce.
Beaches and Mountains
Whitstable Beach
Whitstable Beach is a beautiful shingle beach that’s located just a few miles from Canterbury. This beach is known for its fresh seafood and stunning sunsets.
Mount Snowdon
Mount Snowdon is located in Snowdonia National Park and is the highest mountain in Wales. This mountain offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside and is a popular destination for hikers and climbers.
Cultural Immersion
Canterbury Festival
The Canterbury Festival is an annual arts and cultural festival that’s held in the city. This festival features a wide range of events, including live music, theater performances, and art exhibitions.
Canterbury Cathedral Choir
The Canterbury Cathedral Choir is one of the most famous choirs in the world and has been performing at the cathedral for over 900 years. Attending a performance by the choir is a great way to experience the local culture and history.
Art and Music Scene
The Marlowe Theatre
The Marlowe Theatre is a modern theater that’s located in the heart of Canterbury. This theater offers a wide range of performances, including plays, musicals, and comedy shows.
The Gulbenkian
The Gulbenkian is a cinema and theater that’s located on the University of Kent campus. This venue offers a wide range of performances, including live music, theater productions, and film screenings.
Walking Tours
The Canterbury Ghost Tour
The Canterbury Ghost Tour is a popular walking tour that takes visitors through the city’s haunted streets. This tour is led by a knowledgeable local guide and is a great way to learn more about the city’s spooky past.
The Canterbury Historic River Tour
The Canterbury Historic River Tour is a relaxing boat tour that takes visitors along the River Stour. This tour offers stunning views of the city’s historic buildings and is a great way to learn more about the city’s history.
Architectural Marvels
Canterbury Cathedral
The Canterbury Cathedral is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city and is a must-visit for anyone interested in history or architecture. This stunning cathedral has been a place of worship for over 1,400 years and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Westgate Towers
The West