Canterbury

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Canterbury's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Explore Historic Canterbury
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the stunning Canterbury Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Take your time to absorb the rich history and architecture of this iconic landmark.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at a quaint café in the city center, followed by a stroll down the picturesque streets of Canterbury. Don't miss the chance to explore local shops and boutiques for unique souvenirs.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional English pub and enjoy local dishes. After dinner, consider attending a local performance or enjoy a leisurely walk along the River Stour.

day 2
Nature and Parks Adventure
morning
:

Begin your day at the beautiful Westgate Gardens, where you can enjoy a peaceful walk among the greenery. This is a perfect spot to relax and take in the views of the medieval city walls.

afternoon
:

Visit the Canterbury Roman Museum to learn about the city's Roman heritage. Afterwards, have a leisurely lunch at a nearby bistro, enjoying the local cuisine.

evening
:

Relax at one of the parks or gardens in the city, enjoying a picnic as the sun sets. Alternatively, check out a local bar for some live music.

day 3
Cultural Day in Canterbury
morning
:

Visit the Beaney House of Art and Knowledge to appreciate the local art and historical exhibits. This venue is both an art gallery and a public library, offering a wealth of information.

afternoon
:

Head to the Marlowe Theatre for a guided tour or find a matinee show to catch. Explore the adjoining area for delightful cafés to have lunch.

evening
:

After the show, enjoy dinner at a nearby restaurant that offers a mix of modern and traditional cuisine. Then take a short evening walk through the City Centre, soaking in the ambiance.

day 4
History and Heritage Day
morning
:

Kick off your day with a visit to the Canterbury Heritage Museum to learn about the city's past. The museum features a range of artifacts that tell the story of Canterbury's development.

afternoon
:

Continue your historical journey at the ancient St. Augustine's Abbey, exploring the ruins of this important site. Have lunch in the abbey grounds or at a nearby café.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a historic tavern that dates back hundreds of years. Afterward, embark on a ghost tour to hear spooky stories from Canterbury’s past.

day 5
River Adventures and Relaxation
morning
:

Start with a scenic boat tour along the River Stour, taking in the beautiful views of the city from the water. This unique experience offers a different perspective on Canterbury.

afternoon
:

After the boat tour, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a riverside eatery. Spend the afternoon wandering through the tranquil riverside walking paths.

evening
:

Dine at a cozy restaurant with a fantastic view of the river. Later, consider stopping by a local ice cream shop for a sweet treat.

day 6
Literary Walks and Wonders
morning
:

Begin your day by visiting the Charles Dickens Centre, celebrating the famous author who had connections to Canterbury. Engage with exhibitions that highlight his works and life.

afternoon
:

Take a literary walking tour of Canterbury, visiting places linked to Dickens and other writers. Break for lunch at a café that boasts a literary theme.

evening
:

Sit down for dinner at a restaurant that features dishes inspired by literary works. End your day with a visit to a local bookshop or poetry reading event.

day 7
Culinary Delights and Tastes
morning
:

Join a food tour in the market area of Canterbury, where you can taste various local delicacies. Learn about the culinary heritage from knowledgeable guides.

afternoon
:

Participate in a cooking class that showcases traditional Kentish recipes, turning your morning's learnings into a hands-on experience. Enjoy lunch featuring the fruits of your labor.

evening
:

Attend a local wine tasting event to sample wines from the region. Wrap up with dinner at a restaurant that emphasizes fresh, local ingredients.

day 8
Art and Creativeness in Canterbury
morning
:

Dedicate your morning to visiting local galleries and art studios, discovering the vibrant contemporary art scene. Many offer workshops or demonstrations that you can join.

afternoon
:

Grab lunch at an artsy café, surrounded by delightful decor and artistic ambiance. Spend the afternoon sketching or painting in one of the city's parks.

evening
:

Have dinner at a gallery restaurant, enjoying both the food and art. Attend an evening exhibit opening to see the latest works from local artists.

day 9
Canterbury Nightlife and Entertainment
morning
:

Use the morning to explore the local markets and grab some snacks for the day ahead. A visit to the local farmers' market will give you insights into Canterbury's produce.

afternoon
:

Get ready for the evening by relaxing in a local park, or visit nearby attractions that hold your interest. Enjoy a late lunch at a nearby pub that offers hearty dishes.

evening
:

Experience the lively nightlife at various bars and pubs throughout the city. Whether you prefer live music, karaoke, or a quiet drink, Canterbury has something for everyone.

day 10
Discovering Canterbury on Foot
morning
:

Start with an informative walking tour led by a local guide, highlighting the city's history and architecture. This is a great way to understand Canterbury's unique layout.

afternoon
:

After your tour, enjoy lunch at a restaurant that reflects Canterbury's culinary scene. Spend the afternoon visiting smaller attractions that you discovered during the tour.

evening
:

Finish your day with a delightful dinner in a restaurant that serves seasonal dishes. A light walk back through the city will allow you to reflect on your day's adventures.

Discover Canterbury

Read more in our Canterbury 2024 Travel Guide.

Canterbury Travel Guide