While there might not be top attractions in The King's Mile, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Marlowe Theatre and Sidney Cooper Gallery.
Discover the most popular places to visit in Canterbury
Canterbury Cathedral
9.2/10 (786 reviews)
This magnificent medieval cathedral marks the site of Thomas Becket's 1170 martyrdom, drawing pilgrims for centuries. Explore the Romanesque Nave, Gothic Quire, and 12th-century stained glass windows with an audio guide.
Photo by Geraldine Soh
Open Photo by Geraldine Soh
Westgate Gardens
9.2/10 (126 reviews)
Stroll along the River Stour in these historic gardens adjacent to medieval Westgate Towers. Enjoy vibrant flowerbeds, ancient arches, and peaceful picnic spots on the expansive lawns.
Photo by Joan Hagan
Open Photo by Joan Hagan
Howletts Wild Animal Park
8.2/10 (45 reviews)
Howletts Wild Animal Park houses the UK's largest African elephant herd across 100 acres of conservation-focused parkland. Walk among free-roaming lemurs while learning about endangered species protection.
Photo by Paul Devall
Open Photo by Paul Devall
Marlowe Theatre
8.6/10 (122 reviews)
The Marlowe Theatre hosts world-class performances from the Royal Shakespeare Company and National Theatre in its modern 1,200-seat auditorium. Select centre seats for optimal views.
Photo by Joan Hagan
Open Photo by Joan Hagan
Wingham Wildlife Park
8.2/10 (30 reviews)
Home to Kent's largest variety of animal species, including the UK's only moon bears. Enjoy close encounters with wildlife through walk-through enclosures and interactive feeding sessions.
Howletts Zoo
8.4/10 (19 reviews)
Howletts Wild Animal Park houses the UK's largest herd of African elephants across its 100-acre conservation space. Observe gorillas, elephants, and rare species during keeper talks showcasing breeding programmes.
Lydden Hill Race Circuit
6.8/10 (13 reviews)
Birthplace of rallycross since 1967, Lydden Hill's one-mile mixed-surface track delivers thrilling motorsport action. Enjoy panoramic views from the natural amphitheatre setting during FIA World Rallycross events.
St. Lawrence Ground
Catch an event at St. Lawrence Ground during your trip to Canterbury. Make time to visit the area's stunning cathedral or simply enjoy its top-notch restaurants.
"The Lodge was so surprising. Being on the Cathedral grounds, it evokes a sense of tranquility and calm. That feeling does not extend past the walls of the ground. The breakfasts were amazing. The staff was most accommodating. Everything was within the radius of the Lodge and walking to places was easy. The only thing that disappointed was that the standard double room has a tiny bed which was caused a snug bed-share challenge. It worked out. We're glad we chose that accommodation."
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Offering excellent value package deals on Expedia, you'll be thrilled with how little a holiday to Canterbury costs! Our packages make travel planning easier and your savings go further.
What are the cheapest months to go to Canterbury?
You can generally find lower prices and greater availability in December, January and February. Explore our cheap Canterbury holiday packages and you could score some great off-season deals.
How many days is enough for Canterbury?
Dedicate around 2 days for your Canterbury holiday if you're hoping to take in all that makes this place special. Stroll around popular areas, including Barham and The King's Mile. Then make a beeline for top sights such as Canterbury Roman Museum and Rupert Bear Museum. With a clever itinerary, you can keep busy with room for some rest and relaxation too. Want to venture beyond Canterbury? Consider an excursion or two.
Is it worth booking a holiday package to Canterbury?
Whether you'd like to check out major sights like Marlowe Theatre and Westgate Gardens on your Canterbury holiday, or coming for its excellent family-friendly attractions, nature and views, there's something for everyone here. With so many things to see and do, you'll soon discover why so many travellers think Canterbury is a good holiday destination.
How to find the best Canterbury package deals?
Finding a cheap Canterbury package deal is a breeze with Expedia. Once you've entered your destination and trip dates under our "Packages" tab, set your budget range, apply some filters and browse what's available. You can fine-tune your search by "Popular locations," "Property type," "Guest rating" and more. Order the results by "Price: low to high" to view the most wallet-friendly Canterbury package deals. Want a simple trick to get even more savings? Be flexible with your departure dates and consider travelling on a weekday, when prices are usually lower.
Is it cheaper to book a Canterbury holiday as a package?
Expedia holiday packages are designed to make your money go further. Bundle your flight, car rental and hotel into one great-value price and enjoy significant savings. You'll typically snag a better deal than booking each component individually. And you'll still enjoy the flexibility to create a customised Canterbury holiday by choosing your preferred accommodation type, airline and car class.
When to book a holiday package to Canterbury?
If you have your Canterbury travel dates locked in, book early to grab some awesome deals. With Expedia, you can often reserve some flights up to one year in advance. Prefer spur-of-the-moment getaways? Our last-minute deals are great for jetting off on a whim.
How to plan a trip to Canterbury?
Pick the best time to travel: Your schedule, preferred season and the type of weather you enjoy can all influence your decision on when to visit Canterbury.
Set a budget: Consider expenses such as flights, food and transportation when working out how much to set aside for your trip to Canterbury. Then, choose a hotel that suits your budget, whether that's a low-cost stay or a high-end getaway.
Determine how many days away: Start by listing all the activities and attractions you'd like to get to in Canterbury. Then, estimate how long you'll need for each, along with any travel time.
Bundle your flights and hotel: Epic destination, check. Length of stay, check. All that's left now is to find a Canterbury holiday package that brings all your bookings together.
For an enjoyable shopping experience, visit the Old Synagogue in Canterbury for unique gifts. If you're up for a drive, Westwood Cross Shopping Centre offers a variety of stores, while Capel le Ferne Farmers Market provides a delightful local atmosphere for fresh produce and crafts.
Recreation
The Gulbenkian Theatre in Canterbury offers a vibrant cultural experience with a diverse range of performances, perfect for an evening of entertainment. Nearby, Playhouse Theatre Whitstable provides a charming atmosphere for romantic outings. For outdoor enthusiasts, Broome Park Golf Club presents a serene golfing experience amidst beautiful landscapes.
Adventure
Experience the thrill of Cain's Amusements, an arcade adventure zone located 11.3km from Canterbury, perfect for family fun. Lazer Rush, an exciting adventure activity 8.0km away, offers exhilarating laser tag experiences. Don't miss the Hippodrome Children's Indoor Playground, 9.7km away, for a vibrant and entertaining day out.
Nightlife
Canterbury's nightlife offers a vibrant mix of pubs and bars. Visit the bustling Old Buttermarket for a lively atmosphere, or enjoy a game at the nearby AMF Bowling Margate, located 24.1km away. Experience local ales at The Parrot or dance the night away at the nightclub, The Lounge.
Find the best attractions in and around Canterbury
Canterbury offers a delightful blend of culture and outdoor experiences, ideal for family vacations. Explore the iconic Canterbury Cathedral and delve into the city's rich heritage at the Canterbury Museum. Enjoy the serene urban parks and nearby reserves, perfect for a leisurely day out. Don't miss the historic attractions that showcase the charm of this beautiful city, making it a must-visit destination for travellers seeking both culture and relaxation.
Canterbury Cathedral: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Canterbury Cathedral is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture and a centre of English Christianity. Visitors can marvel at its stunning stained glass, intricate stone carvings, and the historic atmosphere that has inspired pilgrims for centuries.
Whitstable Harbour: Located 9.7km from Canterbury, this charming harbour offers a delightful seaside experience. With its picturesque beach, fresh seafood, and stunning sunsets, it's the perfect spot for leisurely strolls, enjoying the scenery, or sampling the local oysters.
Canterbury Christ Church University: This modern university is a vibrant hub of learning in the heart of Canterbury. Known for its welcoming atmosphere and diverse courses, it offers an insight into contemporary student life while being close to historical attractions.
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.
Tips to save on your trip to Canterbury
Combine your flights, hotels and car rentals on Expedia—bundling can result in significant savings.
Consider traveling to Canterbury during the low season (January to March) for more affordable options.
Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.
* Savings based on package bookings compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings not available on all packages.