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Canterbury is one of the most famous cities in Kent. Its popularity arises from its small but accessible size, convenient travel links and extensive historical significance. Areas of the city are considered so important as to have been awarded UNESCO heritage designation. Canterbury sits on the River Stour, and is a beautiful combination of traditional architectural styles as well as visitor attractions and modern shopping facilities.

The history of Canterbury is long reaching, going as far back as the early Britons. The Romans also found the location appealing, and they established a base here, calling it Durovernum. They built defensive walls around the town. They were also responsible for bringing Christianity to Canterbury via St. Augustine. Augustine was an Italian monk who was sent to Britain in AD597 to convert the southeast to the Roman religion. He became the first Archbishop and founded an abbey, St. Augustine’s, the remains of which are now part of Canterbury’s UNESCO status. Canterbury got its modern name at around the same time, as European settlers came and renamed the area to what translates as ‘Kent People’s Stronghold’. Not all immigrants were peaceful, and Canterbury Castle was built to defend against Danish attacks.

Canterbury remained known for its religious heritage, a reputation which was bolstered in 1170 when Thomas Beckett, then Archbishop of Canterbury, was brutally decapitated by supporters of King Henry II in retaliation for a long-standing dispute between the King and Archbishop. He was later canonised, and Canterbury Cathedral became a place of pilgrimage. This activity was later utilised by Chaucer in his satirical Canterbury Tales. Unfortunately, in more recent times, Canterbury was heavily bombed in the Baedecker Blitz during World War II, so not all of its historic architecture remains. For example only the tower remains of St. Martin’s Church, where the famous playwright and local son, Christopher Marlowe, was christened. However, there are still plenty of buildings related to its past to explore and enjoy.

Despite its diminutive size, there are also several lovely green spaces in and around Canterbury for a casual stroll, offering an escape from the bustle of the shopping streets or a space for a family picnic whilst watching the world go by. Canterbury is proud of its floral displays, and the riverside Westgate Gardens have some of the best. The Dane John Gardens offer summertime concerts and an amazing children’s maze. The Riverside Walk, from Kingsmead Coach Park as far as the West Gate, is a pretty way to reach the city centre.