Travel / England / Kent / Canterbury - 14.04.2024

A Journey Through Canterbury: History and Heritage Unveiled

Exploring Canterbury with Talli was an adventure filled with wonder and delight. We wandered through the city's medieval streets, soaked up the atmosphere, and took a slower moment by the River Stour. From the historic charm of Canterbury Cathedral to the lively market squares, it felt like every corner had something new to notice.

First look at Canterbury

The entrance to Canterbury Cathedral

Canterbury is one of those places that feels instantly historic. The streets have that medieval layout, with little lanes, older buildings, and plenty of spots where you naturally slow down and look around. We spent the day wandering and letting the town lead the way, mixing the bigger landmarks with smaller moments like riverside views and market square energy.

My top spot: Canterbury Cathedral

Canterbury Cathedral exterior

Canterbury Cathedral was the standout for me. Even if you only have a short amount of time inside, it is worth it for the scale, the details, and the feeling of stepping into centuries of history. The arches and stained glass are the kind of thing you can easily get lost staring at, and it is a proper must if you are visiting Canterbury for the first time.

A River Stour stroll with Cornish pasties

Talli in the park in Canterbury

On a sunny day, the River Stour walk is such an easy win. It cuts through the town and gives you a calmer side of Canterbury, away from the busiest streets. Halfway through, we stopped for food and grabbed Cornish pasties with classic lemonade, then carried on exploring, weaving between the river and the older streets until we had properly filled the day.

Little corners we loved

A narrow alleyway in Canterbury

Part of the fun is the small details: tiny alleyways, interesting doors, and the feeling that Canterbury has layers. We kept drifting off the main routes, then looping back again, and it made the whole trip feel more personal than just ticking off the big attractions.

Top spots in this area

A few easy Canterbury ideas if you want to build a simple day plan around the cathedral and the town centre.

Canterbury City Walls

Best for: seeing the city from above

Walking along the old walls gives you a different view of Canterbury. It is an easy way to connect the city’s past with its present.

Westgate Gardens

Best for: peaceful green space

Tucked beside the river, this area feels calm and well kept. It is a good place to pause between sightseeing stops.

The Marlowe Theatre

Best for: evening entertainment

A modern theatre that brings a lively energy to the city. Even if you are not seeing a show, the area around it feels vibrant.

Canterbury High Street

Best for: shopping and people watching

Busy and full of movement, the high street blends historic buildings with everyday life. It is a good snapshot of the city’s pace.

River Stour Walks

Best for: slower exploration

Following the river gives you quieter views of the city. The paths feel tucked away, even though you are close to the centre.

St Augustine’s Abbey

Best for: ruins and reflection

The remains of the abbey feel open and atmospheric. It is a less crowded stop that adds depth to Canterbury’s story.

Independent Cafes of Canterbury

Best for: breaks between exploring

Small cafes are scattered through side streets and lanes. They are perfect for slowing down and taking in the city at your own pace.

Map & getting around

Here’s roughly where everything sits. Zoom, drag, and poke around to plan your own version of the day.