Things to see and do Canterbury

This garden stretches between the Stour River and the Westgate Towers. The walk is pleasant.

A small Franciscan chapel surrounded by a garden is nestled behind Greyfriars Guest House. Pass the double doors, move to the river and turn left before the bridge. Ideal for a quiet and relaxing stay in the city centre.

Canterbury Cathedral is the seat of the Anglican Church and is the undisputed emblem of the city and a spiritual centre for many believers around the world. It is one of the unmistakable landmarks of southern England, which will delight history lovers. In the rest of the country, only a few other religious buildings can boast of such renown, such as the cathedrals of York, Westminster or St Paul's. The church dedicated to St Augustine, which stood here before, was destroyed in a fire in 1067 and the present colossus was erected between 1070 and 1503. Impressive, imposing, fascinating, there is no shortage of adjectives to describe its historical interest, which is based on a mixture of several architectural styles, including an excellent example of perpendicular Gothic. The Romanesque crypt is the only remaining vestige of the 11th century and remains one of the highlights of the visit. It was on the steps leading up to it that the famous Archbishop Thomas Beckett was assassinated by the knights of Henry II in 1170. Canterbury Cathedral also contains the tombs of Edward, the Black Prince, hero of the Hundred Years' War, as well as Henry IV and Joan of Navarre, topped by their recumbent figures. Don't miss the frescoes in the Saint Gabriel Chapel (12th century), the stained glass windows in the Trinity Chapel depicting the life of Saint Thomas Beckett (13th century), the clock in the transept, the mosaic and the curved escutcheons in the floor behind the altar, the cloister and the chapter house.

This abbey, now in ruins, was built in 598 by St Augustine to celebrate the success of the evangelisation of England. The building was for a long time the exclusive domain of the monks, before being used as a royal residence after Henry VIII had created his own religion and ordered the destruction of religious monuments. It contains the tomb of St Augustine and the burial places of various Saxon kings. The kings of Kent and the archbishops of Canterbury are also buried here. The site has been on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 1988.

The tourist office is located on the ground floor of the Beany House of Art & Knowledge. The staff were very friendly and helpful.

Now in ruins, Canterbury Castle was built by William the Conqueror's Normans from 1070 onwards, and in the ^13th century served as a prison for the entire region. It also served as a warehouse for a gas company during its long history. Little now remains of the building, but it still offers a fine view of the surrounding area from the top of its stairs. Informative panels describe the building's past, allowing visitors to step back in time and imagine what it was like. An interesting visit, but not essential.

This plot faces the entrance of the cathedral. We can admire old, apparent-beam houses of the Tudor era.

How about a walking tour of Canterbury with a local guide? For 1h30, you'll discover the narrow streets of this medieval city and all its secrets. You'll pass some of the most beautiful monuments for which Canterbury is famous, and you'll even have access to the forecourt of the impressive cathedral. Don't hesitate to ask your guide any questions - they're experts! An original tour, led (in English) by enthusiasts. Cantebury Walking Tour also offers themed tours: Canterbury tales, gardens, the Tudors...