Canterbury is 89 kms south east of London in the district of Kent, England along the River Stour. This medieval city was originally a walled city, which remains can still be seen around the city. The heritage town is full of independent shops, galleries and museums that are all great to explore on your day trip from London.
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How to get to Canterbury?
Canterbury is located 65 miles to the east of London in the area of Kent, England. To drive to Canterbury it can take anywhere for 1.5 to 2.5 hours depending on traffic. If you do drive into Canterbury there is a lot of parking available to visitors however it is all paid parking.
As traffic can be very bad through central London it is best to catch the train to Canterbury. Trains to Canterbury run from London St Pancras to Canterbury West in around 1 hour or London Victoria to Canterbury East in 1 hour and 50 minutes, tickets for this train can be bought through Trainline here.
There are also bus services to Canterbury which is the cheapest option however it takes around 2.5 hours depending on the route so it is not the best option, tickets can be booked through Megabus here.
Want a seaside escape nearby? Check out Our Whitstable, UK Travel Guide: A Charming Day at the Seaside from London
What to do in Canterbury?
Canterbury Cathedral
The Canterbury Cathedral is a UNESCO Heritage listed site dating back to the 6th Century. This Grade 1 listed Gothic building is the cathedral home to the Archbishop of Canterbury. Tickets to the Cathedral are £16 for adults and children go free, tickets can be purchased through Get Your Guide here.
Westgate Gardens
Westgate gardens is a small outdoor area located along the River Stour. It is a great oasis for a picnic or somewhere to lay around and read a book while watching the boats punting along the river. If you happen to be in Canterbury on a lovely sunny day then why not go punting from here along the River Stour. Trips run from March to October daily, this can be organised through Westgate Punts.
The Crooked House
The Crooked House also know as Sir Johns Boys House was built in the 17th Century and has looked as if it is going to topple over ever since. The Crooked House is now home to Catching Lives Book which is an entirely volunteer based store selling a large range of second hand books.
Westgate Towers
Built in 1380 Westgate Towers is England’s largest medieval gateway. Inside the Westgate Towers museum is exhibits on crime & punishment and Westgate throughout history. Adults tickets into the museum are £4 per person. The Westgate Towers is also home to various themed Escape rooms if you are up for a challenge and a pub set inside the old police station called The Pound.
The Old Weavers House
Dating back to 16th Century this Tudor style building was used for trade along the River Stour. At the bridge next to The Old Weavers House there is a picturesque view of the building with the river running alongside where occasional punters come along. It is now home to The Old Weavers Restaurant serving up a large range of traditional English style food including pies, roasts and fish and chips.
Looking for other days away? Check out Our Guide to Day Trips from London: Best Places to visit by Train from London
Where to eat in Canterbury?
The Goodshed
Market & Cafe
Fringe + Ginge Coffee
Coffee
Tiny Tims Tea Rooms
Afternoon Tea
The Parrot
Pub
Where to stay in Canterbury?
The Falstaff
The Corner House
Looking for another getaway? Check out Our Best Romantic Weekend Breaks from London: UK Getaways by Car or Train
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