Top reasons to visit Canterbury
- Historic Sites: Explore the rich history of Canterbury at attractions like the Canterbury Roman Museum and the captivating Canterbury Tales.
- Charming City Centre: Stroll through the medieval streets, where friendly locals create a welcoming atmosphere.
- Scenic River Tours: Enjoy picturesque views of the city while embarking on a relaxing river tour.
- Family-Friendly Activities: Discover a variety of engaging attractions suitable for families, ensuring a fun-filled visit.
- Diverse Accommodation: Choose from charming bed and breakfasts to modern hotels, catering to all preferences.
Find great hotels in and around Canterbury
Discover a delightful range of hotel accommodations in Canterbury, perfect for every visitor. From charming bed and breakfasts to modern hotels, you’ll find options catering to various needs, including pet-friendly and LGBTQIA-welcoming services. Whether you're on a business trip or a leisurely vacation, Canterbury's hotels offer a warm and inviting atmosphere for all types of travellers seeking comfort and convenience in this historic city.
- Ashford International Hotel & Spa: Nestled 21km from Canterbury, the 4-star Ashford International Hotel & Spa offers a sophisticated retreat for eco-conscious travellers. With a guest rating of 8.0, this hotel blends modern elegance with eco-certification, making it ideal for business trips and leisure alike. The hotel is pet-friendly, accommodating various pets with specific amenities, ensuring a comfortable stay for all guests. Enjoy the luxurious spa facilities, a fitness centre, and on-site dining options, all designed to provide relaxation and rejuvenation during your stay.
- Hampton by Hilton Canterbury: Located in the heart of Canterbury, this 3-star hotel boasts a remarkable guest rating of 9.4. The Hampton by Hilton Canterbury embraces a city-themed experience, making it a perfect choice for those wanting to explore local attractions. Its eco-certification reflects the commitment to sustainability, while comfortable accommodations and modern amenities cater to both business and leisure visitors. Guests can enjoy a complimentary breakfast, a fitness centre, and easy access to the vibrant city centre, ensuring a convenient and enjoyable stay.
- The Victoria Hotel: Situated within Canterbury, The Victoria Hotel is a charming 3-star establishment with a guest rating of 9.0. This hotel caters predominantly to business travellers, providing a serene atmosphere conducive to work and relaxation. The property features comfortable rooms and essential amenities, ensuring a tranquil environment for all guests. With its close proximity to local businesses and attractions, The Victoria Hotel is an excellent option for those seeking convenience combined with a welcoming atmosphere.
Where to stay near Canterbury
Canterbury is a captivating city steeped in history, perfect for culture enthusiasts and families alike. Explore the medieval charm of the city centre, where friendly locals welcome you to the heart of historic Canterbury. Enjoy relaxing excursions and discover delightful neighbourhoods nearby, each offering a unique atmosphere filled with historical intrigue and family-friendly activities. Your visit to Canterbury promises a rich tapestry of experiences in this vibrant yet tranquil setting.
- Whitstable: Situated 10km from Canterbury, Whitstable is a charming coastal town renowned for its picturesque beaches and vibrant seafood culture. Visitors flock to Whitstable particularly in April and during the summer months, drawn by its stunning outdoor scenery and recreational opportunities. The town boasts a beautiful marina and a family-friendly beach, perfect for a day of relaxation and exploration. Whitstable's bustling shopping centre offers a variety of local shops and trendy boutiques, making it a delightful spot to find unique souvenirs and enjoy fresh local produce.
- Faversham: Located 14km away from Canterbury, Faversham is a historic market town that invites visitors year-round with its rich culture and family-friendly activities. With a slight peak in visitor numbers during spring and summer, Faversham offers outdoor pursuits, including golf and leisurely strolls through its parks. The town is also home to remarkable architecture that reflects its storied past, making it a visual treat for history enthusiasts. A variety of shopping areas enhance your visit, providing ample opportunity to indulge in local crafts and delicacies.
- Herne Bay: Just 11km from Canterbury, Herne Bay is a delightful seaside town known for its scenic bay and inviting beaches. This destination sees a steady flow of visitors, especially during the warmer months, who come to enjoy its outdoor spaces and stunning coastal views. Herne Bay features a lively recreational area, a theatre for cultural experiences, and an arcade adventure zone for family fun. The family beach is perfect for a day of sun and sand, making it an ideal spot for those seeking a classic British seaside getaway.
Things to do in Canterbury
Shopping
In the heart of Canterbury, you can explore the vibrant Whitefriars Shopping Centre, featuring well-known brands and local boutiques. If you're up for a drive, the nearby Westwood Cross Shopping Centre offers a wider range of shops and dining options, perfect for a leisurely day out.
Recreation
In Canterbury, The Spa at the Canterbury Cathedral Lodge offers tranquil treatments with views of the iconic cathedral, ideal for relaxation. Nearby, the Body Retreat provides wellness workshops and yoga sessions amidst picturesque surroundings, promoting mindfulness and rejuvenation during your stay.
Adventure
Explore the stunning Canterbury Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you can marvel at its breathtaking architecture and rich history. Experience thrilling adventures at the nearby Howletts Wild Animal Park, home to diverse wildlife and engaging animal encounters that will leave you excited and inspired.
Nightlife
Canterbury’s nightlife is vibrant, with options like the stylish Lounge on Beer Cart Lane for cocktails, or The Old Brewery Tavern for a traditional pub experience. If you fancy live music, The Marlowe Theatre often hosts evening performances, adding to the lively atmosphere of the city.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Canterbury
Canterbury offers numerous ways to save during your visit. Enjoy free attractions like Canterbury Cathedral, Whitstable Beach, and Whitstable Harbour. For transport, consider using buses and trains, and aim to travel between January and March for lower accommodation rates. Tuesdays are the best days to book a stay, while Saturdays tend to be pricier. Use Expedia to filter options by budget and location, and consider booking a package deal that combines flights, accommodation, and activities for maximum savings.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Canterbury are January to March, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Canterbury is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in Canterbury is Saturday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and the type of hotel you desire. To find the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can make significant savings by combining your hotel reservation in Canterbury with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in and around Canterbury
Canterbury offers a delightful mix of culture, outdoor activities, and family-friendly attractions. Visitors can explore historic sites such as the Canterbury Roman Museum and the captivating Canterbury Tales. The city centre presents a vibrant urban experience, while nearby beaches and parks provide opportunities for relaxation and recreation. Whether you seek cultural enrichment or outdoor adventures, Canterbury's diverse points of interest cater to all tastes.
- Canterbury Cathedral: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this iconic cathedral showcases stunning Gothic architecture and is steeped in centuries of history. Visitors can explore its breathtaking stained glass windows and tranquil gardens, immersing themselves in the rich cultural vibe that resonates throughout the grounds.
- Whitstable Beach: Renowned for its charming shingle beach and vibrant seaside atmosphere, Whitstable Beach offers the perfect spot to relax. Enjoy fresh seafood from local vendors, or take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, soaking in the picturesque views of the North Sea.
- Kent Downs: This Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty boasts rolling hills and lush landscapes, ideal for hiking and picnicking. The tranquil surroundings provide a refreshing escape, allowing visitors to appreciate the diverse wildlife and scenic vistas of the English countryside.
Best time to go to Canterbury
The best time to visit Canterbury is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Canterbury
Flying into Canterbury is convenient with three major airports nearby. London Heathrow (LHR) is situated 108km away, with excellent hotels like the 5-star Sofitel London Heathrow, 3km from the airport, and Great Fosters, 10km away. London Gatwick (LGW) is closer at 89km; notable accommodations include the 5-star Alexander House And Utopia Spa, 8km away, and Windfalls Boutique Hotel, 5km distant. London Stansted (STN) is also 89km from Canterbury, featuring the Radisson Blu Hotel just 322m from the airport and Novotel London Stansted Airport, 3km away. All hotels offer reliable transport links to their respective airports.