Best Western Abbots Barton Hotel sits at the heart of Canterbury City. Canterbury boasts a wealth of visitor attractions with something for everyone. Canterbury Cathedral offers testimony to Anglican faith, history and culture, it is now a World Heritage Site and has been a place for visitors and pilgrims to visit since the middle ages. Amongst other important buildings in Canterbury that played their part in the city's history are Canterbury Castle and St Augustine's Abbey. The Canterbury Tales visitor attraction allows visitors to step back in time to the 14th century and discover what medieval life in England was like. The Canterbury Audio Tour is also a great way to see the city and learn all about it's history in more detail.
Canterbury is not all about history as the area also boasts some modern golf courses and at the Best Western Abbots Barton Hotel, Canterbury Golf Club and Chestfield Golf Club are within easy reach. If you are looking for a family day out to remember, look no further than Howletts Wild Animal Park set in 70 acres of parkland, located a 10 minute drive up the road. If you are a bit of a petrol head and car enthusiast thenLydden Hill is the ideal day trip, they have plenty of great events taking place throughout the year that are fun for all the family.
Other attractions available to you whilst visiting are Canterbury Ghost Tours, Historic River Tours,Goodnestone Park Gardens, Druidstone Park, Wildwood Animal Park, Reculver Country Park and Reculver Towers, Whitstable Castle and Gardens, Greenfields Shooting Grounds, Badgers Hill Farm and Cidery,Wingham Wildlife Park and many many more!
Pilgrims and visitors have made their way to Canterbury Cathedral since the Middle Ages. It remains one of the most visited places in the country, and, just as importantly, a living community. Visitors have always been made welcome, in the ancient tradition of Benedictine hospitality. We continue the tradition, warmly inviting everyone to share with us the beauty and the unique atmosphere of one of the great holy places of Christendom.
Since its foundation in the 12th century the Archbishop of Canterbury has been the patron. In recent years the Master of Eastbridge was also the Parish Priest of the City Centre, this link has now ceased but the Master continues as patron of the local parish of Blean where the hospital still owns a small area of land from its medieval farms.
Discover some of England’s most historic and well-preserved natural woodland lying between the cathedral city of Canterbury and the towns of Faversham, Whitstable and Herne Bay, The Blean is one of the largest areas of ancient woodland in England – over 11 square miles.
Step back in time and explore the Roman town beneath your feet. Descend through 100 years with each step to reach the Roman street level, or take the lift for a quicker journey.
Experience the past as you wander through the marketplace, discovering what people would have bought and how they lived. Peer into recreated Roman rooms to gain insights into life during this ancient era.
The Beaney House of Art & Knowledge is a free art gallery, library, and visitor information centre located in the heart of historic Canterbury.
The Marlowe Theatre is a major 1,200 seat theatre in Canterbury, where a variety of wonderful shows are performed.
Whitefriars Canterbury is home to a multitude of well known high street brands offering a wide range of the latest high street fashions, with plenty of cafés and eateries so you can really make a day of it in the city and shop 'til you drop!
If you are a fan of Cricket, then the Kent County Cricket Club has some great matches for you to come and see this year.
The club has a long history dating back to 1842. In the mid 19th century there were two clubs playing under the name of Kent: Kent County Cricket Club and the Beverley Kent Cricket Club. But in 1870 a decision was taken to amalgamate into one club, to be called the Kent County Cricket Club with Canterbury as the Club’s headquarters.
Canterbury Golf Club is situated in a delightful woodland setting around a mile and a half from Canterbury city centre. The beautifully sculpted and challenging 18-hole layout was created by renowned golf course designer Harry Colt and has been in existence since 1927. It is widely regarded as one of the best inland courses in southern England, particularly among visitors to the Open Championship whenever it is staged a few miles down the road, in Sandwich.
This farmyard's former cow shed has been transformed into a tasting room and gallery, complete with adjacent workshop space for resident artists or hosting classes focused on art and/or wine.
Explore Whitstable and Tankerton's seaside shopping experience, boasting a wealth of independent shops and the town’s distinctive Bohemian charm. Harbour Street is a focal point, offering independent art galleries, boutiques, gift shops, and a variety of family-owned businesses each with their own unique style. Don't miss out on Whitstable's renowned local oysters—a must-try experience! Enjoy delicious food and scenic views at The Whitstable Oyster Company or opt for a beachside picnic from Wheelers Oyster Bar.
(Photo by Alex Hare)
Howletts Wild Animal Park is a 90-acre adventure in beautiful ancient parkland that is ideal for great days out in Kent with the entire family. There is so much to see from big Cats to Elephants and Gorillas to Rhinos. You never know you might even be lucky enough to see a Honey Badger!
Photos by Visit Canterbury