Things To Do In Canterbury

Other Than Visit The Cathedral

Canterbury River Tour
Canterbury River Tour

Like all towns and cities that have significant numbers of tourists there is a range of alternatives to the main draws. In Canterbury the main draw is of course Canterbury Cathedral for which we have a dedicated page.


If you are spending a weekend or full day at Canterbury we would recommend taking a walking tour of Canterbury. This will nicely set your visit up giving you a great orientation and time to identify which places are attractive to you to follow up later.


We also have a dedicated page for the Roman Museum of Canterbury. A small, inexpensive museum of interest tucked away and not heavily promoted like some of the more commercially minded alternatives.


All the following attractions are in Canterbury centre within easy walking distance of each other and Canterbury Cathedral.

Canterbury Historic River Tour

As you wander down the pedestrianised High Street you will often come across a crowd by Kings Bridge, crossing the River Stour. This is the starting point for the Canterbury River Tour, a very popular and off beat experience.


Unlike other river/water excursions you may take you are put into a small boat with a handful of others and your guide. No motorised boat here, your guide is also your power source and will row you along the River Stour at a stately pace taking many opportunities to stop and admire. The river has had a historic impact on Canterbury and there is much to see.


Its one of those off beat, one off experiences that has proven to be a hit for years and years. The tours leave every 15 to 20 minutes taking around 40 minutes between April and October

Canterbury Tales

A much promoted attraction in the middle of the city.

"Inside the historic building of St. Margaret’s Church you can step back over 500 years to join Geoffrey Chaucer (England’s finest poet) and his colourful characters on their magical pilgrimage from London to the shrine of St. Thomas Becket in Canterbury Cathedral" - that's the marketing message anyway.

Museum of Canterbury

A traditional city museum covering the history of Canterbury. Modest admission charge.

Norman Castle Canterbury

The remains of a Norman castle with interpretation panels, an elevated viewing area. Leaflets are available at the tourist information centre opposite the cathedral's main gateway.

Canterbury Castle was established in the 1080s by the Normans and replaced an earlier motte and bailey fortification built at the nearby Dane John.

St Augustine's Abbey

This great Abbey, marking the rebirth of Christianity in southern England, was founded in AD 597 by St Augustine. Originally created as a burial place for the Anglo-Saxon kings of Kent.

The Abbey is situated outside the city walls. At the Abbey, you can also enjoy a museum and an interactive audio tour.


Leeds Castle, Greenwich and Canterbury Tour

- Private viewing of Leeds castle - The loveliest castle in the world.

- Free time to enjoy the rest of the Castle including the Henry II tower

- Entrance to Canterbury Cathedral

- Walking tour of historic Greenwich

- Tea/sparkling wine and scones served on River Thames cruise

Canterbury Cathedral

After being picked up directly from or close to your hotel, we drive straight to Leeds Castle. for a unique private viewing before the castle opens to the public.


From here we travel to the coast to have lunch in a charming inn overlooking the White Cliffs of Dover and with breathtaking views of the English Channel.


Our afternoon is spent enjoying the delights of Canterbury with its magnificent Cathedral, before heading to Greenwich where we hear fascinating maritime tales about this historic town.


As the sun begins to set we board our luxury boat for a Champagne cruise along the river Thames taking us all the way back to London.

What a day!

Leeds Castle and Canterbury - Full Tour Details


Dover Castle, Canterbury, Greenwich and Thames River Cruise Tour

- Unique opportunity to walk through the wartime tunnels at Dover Castle

- Free time to enjoy the rest of the Castle including the Henry II tower

- Lunch in ancient Canterbury - food and drinks included

- Walking tour of historic Greenwich

- Cruise on the Thames from Greenwich back to London

You've heard of the famous white cliffs of Dover?

This is your chance to see them. Following our scenic drive along the old coastal road with a chance to see the historic white cliffs. On a clear day you can even see France. Dover itself is an historic port with a magnificent 12th century castle.

Dover Castle is the oldest fort in England and has been strategic in the country's defence even up to and including WW1 and WW2. Originally strengthened from an Anglo-Saxon fort in 1066 by William the Conqueror with further additions made by Henry II and Henry VIII.

Dover Castle, Canterbury, Greenwich and Thames River Cruise - Full Tour Details