Canterbury, England is a historic city that has long been associated with the famous Canterbury Tales by Geoffrey Chaucer. This medieval literature classic has made the city of Canterbury a popular tourist destination for centuries. Canterbury Cathedral, one of the oldest and most important religious sites in England, is a major attraction for visitors. It is also a popular pilgrimage site for many Christians.
Canterbury Tales
The Canterbury Tales is a collection of stories written by Geoffrey Chaucer in the 14th century. The stories revolve around a group of pilgrims traveling to Canterbury Cathedral on a pilgrimage. The tales are written in Middle English and are considered to be some of the greatest works of medieval literature. The stories are still read and studied today and are often used to teach English literature in schools.
Canterbury Cathedral
Canterbury Cathedral is the main attraction in Canterbury and one of the oldest and most important religious sites in England. The cathedral is a popular pilgrimage site for many Christians and is the site of the martyrdom of Thomas Becket in 1170. The cathedral is also the home of the Archbishop of Canterbury, the spiritual leader of the Church of England.
Canterbury Attractions
Canterbury is home to many attractions for visitors. Here are some of the top attractions in Canterbury:
- Canterbury Cathedral – the main attraction in Canterbury and one of the oldest and most important religious sites in England.
- Canterbury Tales – a collection of stories written by Geoffrey Chaucer in the 14th century.
- St. Augustine’s Abbey – a former Benedictine monastery that was founded in 598AD.
- Canterbury Roman Museum – a museum dedicated to the Roman history of Canterbury.
- Westgate Gardens – a public park located in the heart of Canterbury.
- Canterbury Castle – a Norman castle that was built in the 11th century.
- Canterbury Museum – a museum that showcases the history and culture of Canterbury.
What to Expect
Canterbury is a vibrant and lively city with plenty to see and do. The city is steeped in history and culture and there are many attractions to explore. Visitors can expect to find a variety of shops, restaurants, and pubs. The city also has a vibrant nightlife with many bars and clubs.
Tours
There are many guided tours available in Canterbury for visitors to take. These tours are a great way to learn more about the city and its history. Popular tours include the Canterbury Cathedral Tour, the Canterbury Tales Tour, and the Canterbury Castle Tour.
Admission
Most of the attractions in Canterbury are free to enter, however, some attractions may require tickets or admission fees. Canterbury Cathedral requires tickets for entry, which can be purchased online or at the cathedral.
Tips for Tourists
- Be sure to plan your visit in advance to make the most of your time in Canterbury.
- Wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking involved in exploring the city.
- Be sure to bring a camera to take pictures of the many attractions in Canterbury.
- Take advantage of the many guided tours available to get a better understanding of the city and its history.
- Be aware of the opening and closing times of attractions to avoid disappointment.
Practical Information
Canterbury is easily accessible by train and is located just over an hour from London. The city has a variety of accommodation options, from budget hotels to luxury resorts. The city also has a wide selection of restaurants, cafes, and pubs.
Canterbury is a beautiful city with plenty to see and do. From the famous Canterbury Tales to the majestic Canterbury Cathedral, there is something for everyone in this historic city. Whether you are looking for a day trip or a longer stay, Canterbury is sure to provide an unforgettable experience.
