Canterbury is one of England's most historic cities and has been an important religious centre since the early medieval period. The city became famous after the murder of Archbishop Thomas Becket in Canterbury Cathedral in 1170, which transformed it into one of Europe's major pilgrimage destinations. Its earlier Roman origins and medieval development can still be seen in the streets, walls and archaeological remains. Today Canterbury remains an important cathedral city, university centre and tourist destination in Kent.
Canterbury: Historical sights and information
Facts about Canterbury
- Latitude:
- 51.280363
- Longitude:
- 1.078883
- GPS Coordinates:
- 51°17' N, 01°05' E
The historical and tourist significance of the city
Canterbury Cathedral is the city's defining landmark and the centre of the UNESCO World Heritage Site that also includes St Augustine's Abbey and St Martin's Church. The cathedral has been one of Christianity's most important pilgrimage destinations in England for centuries. Canterbury's medieval city centre contains timber-framed buildings, historic lanes and the Westgate Towers, while the Canterbury Roman Museum reveals the city's much older origins. The surrounding Kent countryside, Dover and the White Cliffs are all accessible for day trips.
Food and leisure
Canterbury has a lively food scene with traditional pubs, cafés, tearooms and restaurants serving British and international cuisine. The historic centre contains many independent shops alongside modern retailers, while the riverside provides attractive walking routes and places to relax. Spring through early autumn is particularly pleasant for exploring the cathedral, historic streets and surrounding countryside. Canterbury's location also makes it a useful base for visiting coastal Kent, Dover, the vineyards and villages of the Garden of England.
Locations & Tours
Discover famous landmarks, historical sites and tourist attractions in Canterbury.