Canterbury Cathedral Tours and Activities

Canterbury Cathedral which includes a church or cathedral, heritage architecture and a city
Canterbury Cathedral showing a church or cathedral, heritage architecture and religious aspects
Canterbury Cathedral showing a church or cathedral, religious elements and interior views
Canterbury Cathedral which includes a church or cathedral, interior views and religious aspects
Canterbury Cathedral


This 1,400-year-old establishment is known for its breathtaking Gothic ceilings, its outstanding historical collections and its choir.

Pay a visit to the Canterbury Cathedral to get in touch with British history at one of the country’s most important religious sites. Delight in its Gothic style and its ancient artifacts, or make a pilgrimage to pray at its welcoming daily services.  

Since St. Augustine, the first archbishop of Canterbury, made his journey from Rome in A.D. 597 and established the cathedral, it has been a place of prayer for local Anglicans. Because it has been rebuilt and expanded extensively over the centuries, Canterbury Cathedral is even more impressive today.

Enter through the nave and take in the sight of a magnificent hall with ceilings that stretch up to the sky. Continue towards the impressive Quire and the Trinity chapel, which are characterized by detailed white pillars and stained-glass windows that,fill the cathedral with light. 

Join a guided tour to hear intriguing anecdotes about the building’s history and learn the meanings behind the scenes depicted in the stained-glass windows. Visit the well-lit crypt to see the marble plinth shrine of the historical religious icon, Thomas Becket. The elaborate decorations and candle lighting make it a peaceful attraction.

Take the opportunity to attend the cathedral’s daily services. Anglicans can get in touch with their faith with a pilgrimage to the cathedral, and receive a thanksgiving prayer any time of day from a priest. Visitors of other denominations are welcome too and can enjoy the lovely choir accompaniment for each service that continues a 1,400-year-old musical tradition.

End your visit with a walk around the cathedral’s picturesque gardens.

Canterbury Cathedral is at the center of town and is open daily. The entry fee includes access to the grounds. Guided tours are held every day except Sunday and have a fee.   

Those interested in British history can prearrange to also visit the cathedral archives to view one of Britain’s most important historical collections. Travel back in time exploring this literature, with texts dating back to the 14th century.

Plan a trip to see Canterbury Cathedral

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The View Hotel
Canterbury Hotel
Alexander House And Utopia Spa

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Canterbury Cathedral

The Falstaff Hotel

The Falstaff Hotel

3 out of 5
8-10 St Dunstan Street Kent, Canterbury, England
The Falstaff Hotel
ABode Canterbury

ABode Canterbury

4 out of 5
30-33 High St, Canterbury, England
ABode Canterbury
Hampton by Hilton Canterbury

Hampton by Hilton Canterbury

3 out of 5
7 St. Margaret's Street, Canterbury, England
Hampton by Hilton Canterbury
Best Western Abbots Barton Hotel

Best Western Abbots Barton Hotel

3 out of 5
36 New Dover Road, Canterbury, England
Best Western Abbots Barton Hotel
Cathedral Gate Hotel

Cathedral Gate Hotel

3 out of 5
36, Burgate, Canterbury, England
Cathedral Gate Hotel
Canterbury Cathedral Lodge

Canterbury Cathedral Lodge

4 out of 5
Canterbury Cathedral, The Precincts, Canterbury, England
Canterbury Cathedral Lodge
The Millers Arms

The Millers Arms

4 out of 5
2 Mill Lane, Canterbury, England
The Millers Arms
Greyfriars Lodge

Greyfriars Lodge

3.5 out of 5
6 STOUR STREET, Canterbury, England
Greyfriars Lodge
The Coach House Canterbury

The Coach House Canterbury

3.5 out of 5
34 Watling Street, Canterbury, England
The Coach House Canterbury
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.

Things to do near Canterbury Cathedral

Canterbury Cathedral offers a captivating experience with its stunning architecture and rich history. Visitors can enjoy alfresco concerts held within the grounds, making for a delightful atmosphere. Additionally, the cathedral serves as a picturesque wedding venue, perfect for couples seeking a romantic backdrop. While in Canterbury, be sure to explore the charming city, known for its vibrant culture and scenic beauty, before heading to the nearby Chatham Ski Centre for some winter sports fun.

Shopping

For a delightful shopping experience near Canterbury Cathedral, visit the Old Synagogue, a charming store just 161m away. If you're up for a drive, the Ashford Designer Outlet, located 20.9km away, features a variety of designer brands in a vibrant setting.

Recreation

At Canterbury Golf Club, enjoy a round of golf amidst beautiful landscapes, just 1.6km from the cathedral. For relaxation, visit Duncan Down, a serene recreational area 8.0km away. Families can have fun at Herne Bay Mini Golf, located 11.3km from the cathedral, offering adventure and sports activities.

Adventure

Experience a thrilling game at Lazer Rush, located 8.0km from Canterbury Cathedral, where you can unleash your competitive spirit. For a unique outdoor adventure, explore Reinden Wood, 17.7km away, offering serene trails amidst nature. Don’t miss the scenic ride on Leas Lift, 18.0km away, perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts.

Nightlife

Experience a vibrant nightlife in Canterbury with a visit to the Marlowe Theatre for a cultural evening. For family fun, head to iFUN@Sandancers, or enjoy a romantic outing at Playhouse Theatre Whitstable. Each venue offers unique entertainment just a short distance from the iconic cathedral.

Find the best attractions near Canterbury Cathedral

While visiting Canterbury Cathedral, take in the stunning views of this historic site and explore its beautiful grounds. For those seeking a cultural experience, the cathedral itself is a must-see. Nearby, enjoy the urban parks and natural reserves that offer outdoor adventures, making it a perfect destination for a well-rounded vacation. Don't miss the Cathedral Lodge for a unique perspective of this architectural marvel.

  • University of Kent: Experience the vibrant atmosphere of this modern university, located just 1.6km from Canterbury Cathedral. With its impressive architecture and beautiful campus, it offers a unique glimpse into academic life in the UK.
  • Westgate Gardens and Towers: Situated 483m from the cathedral, this urban park is ideal for families. Enjoy leisurely strolls, stunning floral displays, and the historic Westgate Towers, blending natural beauty with city vibes.
  • Reculver Towers and Roman Fort: Travel 12.9km to explore these ancient ruins, where culture and history come alive. Witness the stunning coastal views and learn about the area's rich Roman heritage.

Best time to go to Canterbury Cathedral

Visitor numbers around Canterbury Cathedral is generally unchanged in popularity throughout the year. The best time to visit Canterbury Cathedral can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Canterbury Cathedral falls in August, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Canterbury Cathedral falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January42.3°F (5.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
February42.6°F (5.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
March45.0°F (7.2°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudyAverageAverage
April48.6°F (9.2°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
May53.6°F (12.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June59.2°F (15.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
July63.5°F (17.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August64.0°F (17.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
September61.0°F (16.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
October56.1°F (13.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
November49.3°F (9.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
December45.0°F (7.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Canterbury Cathedral

To save money during your visit to Canterbury Cathedral, take advantage of the free entry to the cathedral and nearby attractions like Westgate Gardens and Whitstable Beach. Plan your trip during the cheaper months of January to February or November, and consider staying on a Wednesday for the best rates. Utilize Expedia to find eco-friendly accommodations and compare room rates, while also looking for package deals that combine flights and activities for added savings. Don't forget to check for special offers and free cancellation options!

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Canterbury Cathedral are January to February and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Canterbury Cathedral is Wednesday. The most expensive day to stay around Canterbury Cathedral is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia's search tool to customize your preferences, such as budget, desired location, and the type of hotel you’re looking for. For instance, selecting the "Eco-certified" filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly accommodations currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel reservation at Canterbury Cathedral with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.