Canterbury Cathedral

Find out all you need to know about visiting this UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is within easy reach of our Canterbury Camping and Caravanning Club Site. One of the oldest and most famous Christian structures in England, Canterbury Cathedral is home to the shrine of Thomas Beckett.

Highlights of Canterbury Cathedral

You’ll find so much to see and do during your visit to Canterbury Cathedral, from appreciating the architecture to seeing beautiful stained glass windows and taking part in regular events. Here are a few highlights to look forward to from your visit:  

1. Architecture

The earliest parts of Canterbury Cathedral were built in the 1070s, and plenty has been added and rebuilt since then, giving us a fascinating display of different architectural techniques.  There's plenty to see, from the buttresses supporting the outer walls to the fan-vaulted ceiling and Romanesque arches.

2. Cathedral grounds

Spend some time during your visit to explore the Cathedral grounds and gardens. Some areas to visit include the Great Cloister, infirmary ruins, Memorial Garden, and Herb Garden.  

3. Stained glass

The stained glass at Canterbury Cathedral brings the history of the place of worship to life. There are 1,200 square metres of stained glass telling stories of miracles, murder and depicting some of England’s most intriguing royals.

4. Historic graffiti

Etched into the walls of Canterbury Cathedral are names, faces, mason marks and much more. There are over 70 footprints in the Great Cloister.

5. Collections

During your visit, you’ll find sculptures, paintings and other objects throughout the Cathedral.  The Cathedral often has different exhibitions showcasing amazing artefacts from the past. Discover what life was like for the monks of Canterbury Cathedral and see decorative objects used in worship.  

Canterbury Cathedral tour

If you’re planning a quick visit to the Cathedral, join one of the 15-minute Mini Talks, held daily between 10 am – 4 pm.

If you’re looking for a more in-depth look at areas of the Cathedral and to hear all about the history of the ground and building, booking a dedicated tour at an extra cost is an option. There are tours specific to the stained glass, tours to tell stories related to the Cathedral like “The St Thomas Becket Story” Tour, tours of the library, the gardens and much more.

Canterbury Cathedral tickets

Tickets for Canterbury Cathedral can be booked online in advance or purchased at the Visitor Centre on the day you visit. A sightseeing ticket includes entry to the Cathedral, Precincts, gardens, and Exhibitions. Kids go free when accompanied by a paying adult.

Getting to Canterbury Cathedral

Canterbury Cathedral is located in the centre of Canterbury, with great public transport links. There’s a bus stop just outside the entrance of our Canterbury Club Site.

If you’re looking to drive, you’ll need to park at one of the public car parks in the city centre. The Cathedral does have a Blue Badge parking on site, but with limited availability. View more about accessibility at Canterbury Cathedral.

Discover more things to do when visiting Canterbury.