Our journey in the UK began as soon as we disembarked from the ferry at the port of Dover, where we headed towards Canterbury, located just 30 km from the port.
Canterbury is a modern city with many shops and chain stores, but it has managed to retain its medieval charm in its historic center. The blend of modernity and antiquity creates a delightful atmosphere, making it a pleasure to wander through the narrow streets.
Although the city is touristy, we did not feel the overwhelming crowds that can sometimes make a visit unpleasant.
A bit of history
Canterbury is a historic city situated in the southeast of England, in the county of Kent. It is world-renowned for its cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most significant places of Christianity in England.
Canterbury was founded by the Romans in the 1st century AD. It was an important center along the Roman roads in England. Geoffrey Chaucer’s work, The Canterbury Tales, written in the 14th century, further enhanced the city’s reputation. This collection tells the stories of pilgrims traveling to the cathedral to visit the tomb of Thomas Becket, the archbishop who was assassinated in 1170.
What to do in Canterbury?
Canterbury boasts a rich historical and cultural heritage, offering a variety of activities, monuments, and museums to visit, some free and others paid. Naturally, it’s challenging to do everything in a single day. Certain visits, like that to the cathedral, require time. You will need to make choices, but here’s a short list of the main activities and must-see sights during your visit to Canterbury.
Canterbury Cathedral
- This is the most iconic monument in Canterbury, the seat of the Archbishop of Canterbury, and one of the oldest Christian churches in England. The visit can take between 1 and 2 hours, depending on the crowd. We thoroughly enjoyed this visit. The cathedral is stunning, and the inner courtyard is reminiscent of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone!
- Entry: Paid for adults, free for children. There’s no need to book online, but remember that EVERYTHING in England closes between 4 PM and 5 PM! Don’t get caught out!
St. Augustine’s Abbey
- A UNESCO World Heritage site, this ruined abbey is one of the oldest Christian sites in England, founded by St. Augustine in 598.
- Entry: Paid, with reduced rates for children and families.
Westgate Towers
- This is one of the best-preserved medieval gates in England, part of the city’s ancient fortifications. You can climb to the top of the tower for a panoramic view of Canterbury and visit the museum about the city’s fortifications.
- Entry: Paid.
The Canterbury Tales
- An immersive attraction recreating the medieval atmosphere of Geoffrey Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales. Here, you follow the stories of pilgrims through sets, sounds, and actors. I think the idea is fantastic! Unfortunately, we didn’t have time to do it, which gives us an excuse to come back!
- Entry: Paid.
Canterbury Roman Museum
- An archaeological museum that reveals the Roman remains of the city, including mosaics and artifacts from the Roman period.
- Entry: Paid.
Westgate Gardens
- Beautiful public gardens located along the River Stour, near the Westgate Towers. You can stroll there away from the crowds and even have a picnic.
- Entry: Free.
Canterbury Historic River Tours
- One of the most well-known operators offering guided tours on traditional flat-bottomed boats. The guides narrate the city’s history, fascinating anecdotes, and historical facts while navigating through the city center. It’s a pleasant and tranquil experience, providing lovely views of the gardens and the cathedral, lasting between 40 and 50 minutes.
- Entry: Paid.
Canterbury by motorhome
When preparing for this new road trip, we struggled to find information in French about what to visit and how to explore England in a converted vehicle, particularly by motorhome! It was quite a challenge, and to be honest, this road trip required the most research. We hope to make things easier for you and save you time with this article and all the others about England!
Canterbury is very easy to visit in a converted vehicle, even in a large one!
For the day:
We recommend parking at the city’s Park & Ride lot. For just £4 for the day, a bus that runs every 10 minutes will take you directly to the city center. The bus fare is included in the parking ticket!
For the night:
You can also spend the night at the Park & Ride parking lot, which also serves as a motorhome area. You can refill your water and empty your gray water tanks there. It’s a cost-effective and convenient way to stay in the city with your vehicle.
Our City Tour on Video
How to Get to Canterbury?
Located just 30 km from the port of Dover, there are several ways to reach the city:
By road:
From the port of Dover, take the A2 motorway towards Canterbury. It’s a straightforward route (perfect for those new to driving on the left 🤣), well signposted, following a direct road between the two cities. You’ll quickly connect to the A2 from Dover, and this road will lead you straight to Canterbury.
By train:
There are regular trains between Dover and Canterbury throughout the day, with a journey time of about 30 minutes. From Dover station, take a direct train to Canterbury.
What to do around Canterbury?
England is a beautiful country with a rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes that change across regions.
From Canterbury, you have several options:
Dover
Yes, it’s not just a port! If the weather permits, go see the magnificent white cliffs, which are easily accessible. These limestone cliffs rise spectacularly above the English Channel and offer breathtaking views of the sea. Dover Castle is also a must-see. Built by King Henry II in the 12th century, it is one of the largest fortresses in England. Nicknamed the “Key to England,” it played a crucial role in defending the country throughout its history.
Rye
This is a small historic town located near the southeast coast. Once a major maritime port, Rye is now a picturesque town famous for its medieval charm, cobbled streets, historic buildings, and surrounding natural landscapes. It’s easy to fall under its spell!
Leeds Castle
This is one of the most beautiful and famous castles in England. It has a rich history dating back nearly 900 years and has become one of the main tourist attractions in the southeast of England.
For food lovers, we recommend a delightful tearoom for the experience of the famous “afternoon tea”: Tiny Tim’s Tearoom. The afternoon tea is very generous and can easily be shared between two people! The homemade scones are to die for!
