Canterbury
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Description
Small historic city and headquarters of the Anglican church
Small historic city and headquarters of the Anglican church
Region
South East England
South East England
Pronounced
can-ter-bery
can-ter-bery
Canterbury
The Romans built a settlement at Canterbury in AD200, and later became the capital of the Saxon Kingdom of Kent. In AD597 St Augustine arrived to bring the Christian message and convert the then King Ethelberht. It’s no surprise today then that a visit to Canterbury must include the Cathedral, which is one of the most famous Christian structures in the country and cathedral of the Archbishop of Canterbury, leader of the Church of England and of the worldwide Anglican Church.The city of Canterbury is great to explore, especially through its traffic-free High Street. You can enjoy a walk along the city walls; visit the West Gate, one of the finest medieval fortified gatehouses in England and offers superb panoramic views of the city. Being a student city it also has its fair share of nightlife and many superb restaurants and eateries.
Activities
The Cathedral founded in the 8th century was rebuilt in the 1070’s following a fire and forms part of a World Heritage site, that includes Augustine’s Abbey and St. Martin’s Church. The Cathedral benefits from reasonably low level buildings surrounding it, so that it stands out well. The Museum of Canterbury reveals 2000 years of the city’s history through interactive exhibits.
The Rupert Bear Museum, on the same site as the Museum of Canterbury contains themed games and workshops for children.
Taking a boat trip on the River Stour gives you a different view of Canterbury and expert guides will point out buildings of interest as well as providing you with some notable facts and figures. Howletts Wild Animal Park includes close encounters with tigers, gorillas, clouded leopards, monkeys, tapirs, Iberian wolves, macaques, rhinos and many other rare and endangered species from around the world, all in large enclosures.
What's nearby
The White Cliffs of Dover are one of Britain's most iconic landmarks, and a wander along the top of them will give a dramatic view over the English Channel. High above the cliffs is the impressive Dover Castle, English Heritage where you can immerse yourself in the medieval world of King Henry II, authentically re-created to show how the castle may have appeared when built new during the 1180’s. Image courtesy of Dover District Council
Leeds Castle set amidst a lake is often described as a romantic castle and is certainly one of Britain’s most stunning. You can wander through the beautiful grounds to wander through as well as superbly restored rooms. The Royal St. Georges Golf Club, Sandwich has hosted the British Open and is one of the premier golf courses in Britain. You might be able to play a round if you book in advance.
Whitstable is most famous for its oysters, which are as plentiful today as in Roman times. The town is centred on its busy commercial harbour. Nearby the Oyster and fishery exhibition tells the story of fishing in Whitstable.
Did you know...
Mary Tourtel (née Caudwell) who created Rupert Bear was born in Canterbury and is buried in the churchyard of St Martin's.
Mary Tourtel (née Caudwell) who created Rupert Bear was born in Canterbury and is buried in the churchyard of St Martin's.
From Canterbury:
Christopher Marlowe
(playwrite)
Orlando Bloom (actor)
Christopher Marlowe
(playwrite)
Orlando Bloom (actor)
For more info: www.canterbury.co.uk
