The star of the show is undoubtedly, Canterbury Cathedral (canterbury-cathedral.org) which sits at the heart of history and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Founded by St Augustine in 597AD, it is a unique place of worship, a major pilgrimage destination as well as a masterpiece of art and architecture.
Having been at the centre of momentous events in history, including the murder of Thomas Beckett in 1170 and the resting place of royalty and saints, today a visit to the Cathedral offers an informative day out which has been 1,400 years in the making. Situated just outside the city walls and also part of UNESCO World Heritage Site, is St Augustine’s Abbey. Originally created as a burial place for the Anglo-Saxon kings of Kent, it’s run by English Heritage (english-heritage.
org.uk) and it’s here where you can explore the tranquil ruins and also enjoy an informative walk. One of the most photographed historic buildings in the city is the Old Weavers House and much of the structure dates back to the 12th century.
It takes its name from the influx of Flemish and Huguenot weavers who settled in the area after fleeing from religious persecution during the 16th and 17th centuries. Combining Canterbury’s former city gaol and police station as well as England’s largest surviving medieval gateway, One Pound Lane (onepoundlane.co.
uk) is a mixed-use heritage venue which also offers escape room experiences, a bar and restaurant “The Pound” and museum and viewpoint from Westg.
