An easy day trip from London to Canterbury, with direct trains from London Bridge, London Victoria and St Pancras. I've been a few times so scroll down for the best things to see, places to eat, and places to stay at in Canterbury.
I have visited Canterbury, UK several times.
The most recent visit was in October last year, on our way to stay at 1 of my favorite country hotels, The Pig at Bridge Place. (I actually prefer it to the original The Pig at New Forest, but my Mom felt otherwise.)
The city’s key highlights are:
- easy access from London
- a magnificent cathedral- the oldest in England, that dates back to 597 AD
- cobbled medieval streets and quaint buildings
- punting on the river
What to Do
Canterbury Cathedral
This UNESCO site in the heart of the city is a must-see- no trip to Canterbury is complete without visiting this famous cathedral!
Founded in 597AD, it is England’s 1st cathedral.
Fun fact: In 2000, Warner Bros. wanted to use Canterbury Cathedral as a filming location for Harry Potter but permission was denied! (They did, however, film at Gloucester Cathedral- also an easy day trip from London.)
Wander Round the High Street
The High Street has lots of cute historic building. It has a mix of independent and chain shops. Unfortunately a lot of them are in disrepair, so parts of it can feel quite shabby.
If you were just looking for a day out exploring shops, this wouldn't be my top recommendation for a London day trip. However, combined with the gardens and cathedral, I still recommend Canterbury as a great train trip from London.
St. Augustine’s Abbey
Another UNESCO site, St. Augustine’s Abbey (founded in 589 AD by St. Augustine of Canterbury) was established as part of his mission to convert the Anglo-Saxons to Christianity.
For centuries, it was a Benedictine monastery and burial place for the kings of Kent.
St Martin’s Church
St Martin’s Church is the oldest church in the English speaking world that has been in continuous use since the 6th century.
Its architecture is part Roman, Saxon, Norman and medieval.
Westgate Towers, Museum & Viewpoint
The Westgate Towers, England’s largest surviving medieval gate, was built in 1380, and was used as a gate, watchtower and as a prison.
It is now a museum which displays Canterbury’s wartime history. Head to the bar, The Pound, for a refreshing drink and have a seat at the terrace or in the newly restored cells.
Note: the top of the towers gives you a good view of Canterbury.
Westgate Gardens & Punting
Stroll leisurely through Westgate Gardens along the River Stour. This riverside park is a peaceful place to relax (or have a picnic) after exploring the towers. Some people say it's like the Venice of England 🙂
Experiencing Canterbury from a boat is one of the best ways to see the town. Sit and enjoy the slow ride through the town whilst the tour guide navigates the shallow boat using a long pole, telling you more about the history of Canterbury and pointing out the best places to visit.
Advance bookings can be made through canterburypuntingco.uk or westgatepunts.co.uk
Note: Daily tours 10am to 5 pm
Tickets: £15 per person
Sir John Boyes House and Bookshop
This bookshop is also called The Crooked House. As per the name, this shop looks like it is going to topple over, but the house structure is still stable. (For now...?)
The bookshop is housed in a 17th century, 3-storey half-timbered building. The Crooked House (sometimes known as Sir John Boys House, King’s Gallery, or Old King’s shop) is now the of Lives Bookshop and sells second-hand books to raise money for the homeless.
Fun fact: Some claim that the House inspired a passage in Charles Dickens’ David Copperfield.
Where to Eat
I love the number of independent shops and restaurants in Canterbury- from family-owned restaurants and cozy pubs to cute cafes.
The Goods Shed
Address: Station Road W, Canterbury CT2 8AN
The Goods Shed is just next to Canterbury East train station.
Housed in a Victorian railway storage shed originally used for coal, it's one of my favorite places to dine in Canterbury.
Besides serving meals, it also has a farmers’ market where you can buy local produce, such as fresh fish. (So if you enter from the side that's closest to the seafood store, there's a bit of a smell, if you know what I mean.)
Note: it's not cheap- we paid London prices for the food.
Where to Stay
The Pig at Bridge Place
Address: Bournes Park Road, Bridge, Canterbury CT4 5BH
This gorgeous country house is the best place to stay when visiting Canterbury. Although it's not located in the centre of town, it's only a straight bus away so easily accessible.
If you don't mind taking a bus, I also recommend eating at The Pig at Bridge- the food is very good!
You can find out more from my unsponsored review of The Pig at Bridge Place.
Canterbury Cathedral Lodge
Address: Cathedral, The Precincts, Canterbury CT1 2EH, United Kingdom
If you want to stay in Canterbury central, this is the top place I recommend. The Lodge is located on the grounds of the cathedral, and some rooms have a great view of the cathedral. A full breakfast is provided.
Note: Guests receive free entry to the Cathedral, worth £19.50 per person.
The Falstaff Hotel Canterbury
Address: Falstaff Hotel
8-10 St Dunstans St
Canterbury CT2 8AF
This hotel is on the site of a former coaching inn, dating back to 1403.
It is next to the Westgate Tower, close to Canterbury West train station and within walking distance of Canterbury Cathedral.
Getting There from London
Canterbury is easily accessible from London, making it a perfect day trip or weekend getaway.
The easiest way is by direct train from London Bridge, London Victoria, or St Pancras International. Note that there are 2 train stations in Canterbury so don't get confused:
- Canterbury East
- Canterbury West
Depending on which London train station you leave from, you can reach:
- Canterbury West (55 minutes, from London St. Pancras International Station)
- Canterbury East (1.5 hours, from London Victoria)
- Canterbury East (1 hour 40 minutes, from London Bridge)
Tip: Booking in advance and for off-peak timings helps you get lower fares.
By coach: 2 hours and 15 minutes.
Take the National Express bus from Victoria Station to Canterbury Bus Station.
Would I recommend?
Yes, absolutely!
Any questions about visiting Canterbury from London? Let me know in the comments!
