Canterbury Cathedral and Churches

(Canterbury, Kent, England, UK)



Picture of the Cathedral Church of Christ at CanterburyThe stunning combination of Canterbury's breathtaking cathedral, the peaceful ruins of the ancient St. Augustine's Abbey and also the extremely historic St. Martin's Church, makes this a city to remember. Canterbury is one of the country's most impressive World Heritage Sites and has a firm foot in the past.

Canterbury Cathedral is what most people arrive in the city to see and as such, this grandmother church will not disappoint. It is easy to spend half a day or more exploring this cavernous structure and guided tours come strongly recommended.


Further photo of the cathedral

The Cathedral Church of Christ at Canterbury

Address: Cathedral House, The Precincts, Canterbury, Kent, CT1 2EH, England, UK
Tel: +44 (0)1227 762 862
A famous Church of England cathedral dating back to the latter part of the 11th century, Canterbury Cathedral was originally founded much earlier, in around 597 AD, and the remains of this previous structure lie far beneath the cathedral of today. With a number of remaining 12th-century stained-glass windows, extremely elaborate details and many hidden treasures, Canterbury Cathedral is also home to a number of important graves, including the King Henry IV's tomb. The cathedral and its immense structure dominates much of the city and serves as a useful reference point.
Open hours: Monday to Saturday, April to September - 09:00 to 20:00; November to March - 09:00 to 16:30; Sunday - 12:30 to 14:30 (services are held between 09:00 to 12:30)
Admission: charge, discounts for seniors, children, families and advance bookings

St. Martin's Church

Address: North Holmes Road, Canterbury, Kent, CT1 1QJ, England, UK
Tel: +44 (0)1227 768 072
The country's most historic church of its kind, St. Martin's Church is located close to the city centre. This impressive building originated as a private chapel for Queen Bertha of Kent and was built towards the end of the 6th century, more than 1,400 years ago. The churchyard contains numerous noteworthy graves.
Open hours: Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday - 11:00 to 15:00, Sunday - 09:50 to 10:30
Admission: free, donations suggested

St. Augustine's Abbey

Address: Longport, Canterbury, Kent, CT1 1PF, England, UK
Tel: +44 (0)1227 767 345
Sited near to the city walls, the ruins of St. Augustine's Abbey clearly give an indication of how impressive this building once was. Destroyed in 1538 under the orders of Henry VIII, other attractions here include an interesting museum full of artefacts and gems from the site. The abbey ruins and museum are currently managed by the English Heritage and audio tours are available if required.
Open hours: March, Saturday and Sunday - 10:00 to 16:00; April to June, Wednesday to Sunday - 10:00 to 17:00; July and August, daily - 10:00 to 18:00; September and October, Saturday and Sunday - 10:00 to 17:00
Admission: charge, discounts for seniors and children

Greyfriars Chapel

Address: 6 Stour Street, Canterbury, Kent, CT1 2NR, England, UK
Tel: +44 (0)1227 456 255
An important building dating back to the 13th century, Greyfriars is located along Stour Street and is the most historic Franciscan building in England. This ancient city landmark is home to an extensive Franciscan Exhibition and particularly attractive gardens.
Open hours: April to September, Monday to Saturday - 14:00 to 16:00
Admission: free