Day trippin’? Canterbury’s top 5 things to do this July

This historic city is perfect for culture vultures, food fanatics, shoppers and families – there’s so much to do – whether you’re capering around those cobbled streets or relaxing on the river…

1. BEST FOR… FAMILY FUN

You CANNOT miss Canterbury’s annual Medieval Pageant and Trail (pictured above) on Sat 1 July, it celebrates the role pilgrimage has had on the historic city. Expect a colour parade featuring historical characters and re-enactment groups, music and giants along with a family trail through various locations in the city. 

The Westgate Towers, The Beaney, St Augustine’s Abbey and many more will be welcoming families with a range of activities including crafts, a chance to meet medieval characters and you can even visit a medieval encampment! Don’t forget when you visit the places in the Family Trail, get your leaflet ‘stamped’ and collect 5 stamps to receive a FREE giant chocolate coin at the Cathedral Shop in the Buttermarket. Allow a whole afternoon to complete the trail, suitable for children of all ages. 

2. BEST FOR… CULTURE VULTURES

It’s hard to miss Canterbury’s beautiful cathedral towering above the city-scape in most views of the city. Not only one of the oldest and most famous Christian structures in the England, it is also a World Heritage site. Do take a moment to walk through this monumental building and soak up the incredible history that has taken place here since its foundation in 597.

If theatre is your thing you’ll be spoilt for choice here. First up is Gulbenkian which is the University of Kent’s Arts Centre offering first-class fun – from regular film screenings to the summer’s Shakespeare Festival (12 Jun – 18 Aug 2023), offering diverse productions for all the family around various scenic venues across the historic city of Canterbury. There’s also Malthouse Theatre, a state of the art theatre housed within a stunning conversion of a Victorian Malthouse – with a full calendar of shows, including brilliant stand-up comedy nights.

The Marlowe Theatre is one of the country’s leading regional theatres and its right on your doorstep. The theatre attracts the best of the national touring productions from 42nd Street, The Rocky Horror Show, Blood Brothers to Sister Act this summer.

3. BEST FOR… OUTDOOR ADVENTURE

Why not book a picturesque trip through the centre of beautiful, historic Canterbury? Canterbury River Tours provide a range of multi-award-winning guided tours – fun for all the family! View the stunning architecture as you journey through the heart of Canterbury on the River Stour and discover parts of the city that are only accessible by these tours. Each boat is chauffeured by a helpful guide, who presents the historical facts of the passing buildings and monuments in an entertaining manner. We like the sound of their Evening Tours – take a relaxing trip along the Stour on a warm summer evening.

4. BEST FOR… SHOPPING IN STYLE

Canterbury’s cobbled streets are a pleasure to potter around and there are plenty of independent shops that can be found in the winding roads heading away from the High Street. Go to Lilford Gallery if it’s an art-fix you are after. There’s always cool, modern, playful work on display and they have two spaces in Canterbury – on Palace Street and Castle Street. Expect an eclectic range of works by both emerging artists from the Kent Area and internationally known artists.

Head to the Superstore Vintage for your teen (they might even thank you) or kids will love Wrapped! or for younger ones Whirligig Toys or for your good self there’s Madame Oiseau (for hand-made chocolate delights) or Platform and Rock Paper Scissors (for gorgeous interior wares and gifts).

5. BEST FOR… YOUNG HISTORY LOVERS

Let them experience some culture at The Beaney House of Art & Knowledge, Canterbury’s museum, library and art gallery right in the city centre. There’s always something going on here from exhibitions, events and daily activities. See their ancient Egyptian mummified cat, victorian toys, artworks from legendary Anthony Van Dyke, Pop Artist David Hockney and brand new is their family gallery showcasing the original Bagpuss giving insights into early, pre-CGI animation. Better still, admission is free!

Found in the heart of Canterbury’s historic centre, the Canterbury Roman Museum is Kent’s only Roman Museum; providing a fascinating and family-friendly insight into life in Roman Britain. Explore Canterbury’s history around the remains of an original Roman Town House and Scheduled Ancient Monument. Discover one of the UK’s only remaining in situ Roman pavement mosaics – as well as the remains of an ancient underfloor heating system. Get ready to step back in time and down the streets of Roman Canterbury.

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