Canterbury Cathedral

About

Canterbury Cathedral is the jewel in Kent’s crown: UNESCO World Heritage Site, Mother Church of the Anglican Communion, and seat of the Archbishop of Canterbury.

Established by St Augustine in 597AD, Canterbury Cathedral is England’s first Cathedral. In 1070 the new Norman rulers rebuilt the fire-ravaged cathedral in their architectural style, described by then-Archbishop Lanfranc as “nearly perfect”. Some parts of the Norman cathedral remain, and despite alterations during the intervening nine hundred years, Canterbury Cathedral remains a masterpiece of English Gothic architecture. From the high-ceilinged Nave with stunning stained glass, through the richly decorated Quire to the atmospheric Crypt which still retains medieval painted walls, each part of the Cathedral has its own rich style and intriguing history to discover.

Outside, Cloisters and gardens offer the opportunity to relax and reflect while admiring the impressive plant collections, from the tranquil Memorial Garden through to a recreation of a sixteenth century Medicinal Herb Garden. Sitting a stone’s throw from the centre of bustling Canterbury, the Cathedral and gardens offer a peaceful haven inside and out.

Described as ‘England in Stone’, Canterbury Cathedral’s history is intrinsically linked to stories from the Magna Carta negotiations to the Blitz, and with King Henry IV and the Black Prince buried within, its history is as rich as it comes. The power struggle between King Henry II and Archbishop Thomas Becket shaped the Cathedral’s fortunes most strongly, with Becket’s shrine, following his murder in 1170, becoming a place of pilgrimage throughout the Middle Ages. That tradition of welcome extends to this day, and the modern Cathedral greets visitors from across the world, offering daily talks and bookable guided tours, while groups can enjoy a range of ‘behind the scenes’ tours and enhanced visits. Families can join regular workshops and events for children of all ages.