Canterbury is a scenic cathedral city in southeast England.
The Canterbury Tales is a collection of stories about a group of pilgrims travelling together to visit the shrine of Saint Thomas Becket in Kent. While this classic work was written by Geoffrey Chaucer in the 14th century, it continues to inspire many people to go on similar journeys today.
At present, Canterbury remains one of the most-visited places in the UK. It is actually a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a reputation of being a religious destination.
If you are planning to check out this beautiful cathedral city anytime soon, you should prepare your itinerary early since there are lots to see and do here.
Top Places to See in Canterbury
You can perhaps start your exploration at the stunning Cathedral and Metropolitical Church of Christ at Canterbury. It is known for being the place where the martyr Thomas Becket was murdered by the knights of Henry II in 1170.
It is also famous for being part of the Pilgrim’s Way, which is a pilgrimage route from Winchester and Rochester. There is even a lodge where you can stay and get exclusive access to the Cathedral Precincts.
If you are not that interested in religious sites, you can check out the Canterbury Heritage Museum instead. You can find it inside a medieval building on Stour Street and it includes the ancient Poor Priests’ Hospital with its grand beamed ceilings.
The museum collection features displays such as the Invicta steam engine made by Robert Stephenson, Tudor painted plaster, and Anglo-Saxon treasures. They also have a Bagpuss and Rupert Bear exhibit that your children are sure to enjoy.
Apart from what has been recommended above, you still have many more choices for sites to add to your itinerary.
Once you have had your fill of exploring Canterbury, drive through the picturesque Kent countryside then drop by the majestic Leeds Castle southeast of Maidstone. It is built on islands in a lake and has been open to the public since 1976.