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 Westgate Gardens and Towers.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 lively bars.
"Fantastic spot right in the center of Canterbury. That being said, not recommended for light sleepers: the streets outside are lively into the night and the delivery trucks start very early.
Room was immaculate, comfy beds, and modern bathroom. Great lounge in the lobby too!"
"Great stay - convenient location just a short walk from the high st and attached to a fabulous restaurant. We stayed on the top floor - great room but a bit tricky for anyone who is less mobile or quite tall. Really great friendly service from the staff from start to finish."
"Very nice old building, immediately adjacent to the entrance to Canterbury Cathedral ticket office. Centrally located on the Royal Mile. The main downside is that parking is about 1/4 mile away and Ubers and Taxis can only get you within 100 yards of the door"
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.
Canterbury offers a delightful blend of cultural experiences and outdoor activities, making it perfect for family vacations. You can explore Kent walking holidays, enjoy fun tours, and indulge in sightseeing days. The city boasts a rich theatre scene and a vibrant shopping centre, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy during their visit.
Shopping
For a delightful shopping experience in Canterbury, visit the Old Synagogue for unique finds. If you're up for a drive, the Ashford Designer Outlet and Westwood Cross Shopping Centre, both featuring a mix of business and entertainment, are worth exploring, located 13 and 24.1km away respectively.
Recreation
The Marlowe Theatre in Canterbury offers a delightful blend of romance and culture, perfect for an enchanting evening. Nearby, the Playhouse Theatre in Whitstable enriches your experience with its vibrant entertainment. For outdoor enthusiasts, Broome Park Golf Club provides a splendid setting for a relaxing day on the greens.
Adventure
Experience thrilling fun at iFUN@Sandancers, an arcade adventure zone located 11.3km from Canterbury, perfect for families. Enjoy an adrenaline rush at Lazer Rush, 8.0km away, where excitement awaits. Alternatively, visit Cain's Amusements, another arcade adventure zone 11.3km away, offering a fantastic family atmosphere.
Nightlife
For a lively night in Canterbury, consider AMF Bowling in Margate, just 24.1km away, where you can enjoy a fun-filled evening with friends. Alternatively, explore local pubs and bars for a more relaxed atmosphere, offering a taste of the city's vibrant nightlife.
Find the best attractions in and around Canterbury
Canterbury offers a delightful blend of culture, outdoor experiences, and family-friendly activities. Visitors can explore local gems such as the Canterbury Museum, the historic heart of Canterbury, and the iconic Canterbury Cathedral. Additionally, the area's urban parks and nature reserves provide ample opportunities for relaxation and exploration. Be sure to discover the top attractions that showcase the rich heritage and vibrant atmosphere of this charming city.
Canterbury Cathedral: A UNESCO World Heritage site, this stunning medieval cathedral is known for its impressive Gothic architecture and rich history, making it a cultural gem in the heart of Canterbury.
University of Kent: This modern institution offers a vibrant campus atmosphere, blending contemporary architecture with lush green spaces. It's a hub for academic and cultural activities, perfect for exploring the dynamic student life.
Whitstable Harbour: Located 9.7km from Canterbury, this charming harbour is famous for its picturesque scenery, seafood restaurants, and vibrant beach culture, providing a delightful seaside escape.
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
Take advantage of package deals on Expedia and combine flights, hotels, or car rentals for a convenient and cost-effective trip to Canterbury.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Canterbury holiday package cost?
Offering excellent value package deals from €149 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.