Canterbury, Known as the birthplace of Christianity, Canterbury in Kent, UK is a jumble of historic winding streets the heart of which is dominated by its cathedral.

 

Highlights

 

• Canterbury Heritage Museum - Features Roman and medieval relics that were discovered during the excavations of the city. Includes the famous Canterbury Cross. Admission charge. Open Mon - Sat 10.30am - 5pm (1.30pm - 5pm June to September)

 

• Canterbury Tales -  Features a reconstruction of Chaucer’s medieval England with stories of romance and intrigue. Open all year round 10am - 5pm. Admission charge.

 

• Canterbury Cathedral - UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built in 1070 from stone shipped from France and considered to have the most beautiful stained glass windows from the period. Opening times vary. Admission charge

 

• St Augustine's Abbey - Includes the ruins of the tombs of early saints and a rotunda built in the 11th century. Open April - September 10am to 6pm, Oct - March Wed - Sun 10am - 4pm. Admission charge.

 

• The Marlowe Theatre - One of the most popular theatres in the South east which features the best of local and touring productions. Booking line: 01227 787787

 

Description

 

Situated in the heart of Kent, Canterbury is famous for its university and its historical architecture, cathedral and its association with English Christianity. In fact it was known as the birthplace of modern Christian teaching and has been a place of pilgrimage since the times of Thomas Becket in 1170. A wall plaque now shows the place where Becket was murdered but no one knows where the saint's remains are.

 

Canterbury soon became a trading post , being the most direct route between London and the mainland of Europe and features the remains of one of the largest Roman theatres in the UK, mosaics and even an underfloor heating system. Showing the popularity of the city even during Roman times.

 

Visitors to Canterbury will love the historic walking tours that leave from the visitors centre that take visitors all around the main points of interest in the city. Visitors will also want to see the famous cathedral with its impressive stained glass windows that are famed worldwide.

 

The city is now used as a university town with four different universities and features a great mix of places of historical interest and modern cafes, eateries and nightlife. As a popular tourist spot, Canterbury offers a number of fantastic hotels and b&b’s.