10 Things to do in Canterbury That You Shouldn't Miss

The first Church of England, this historic gothic-style cathedral dates back to 597, which served as a rich and powerful monastery of Benedictine monks in the 12th century.

The Beaney House of Art & Knowledge is an Art Gallery, Library and Visitor Information Centre situated in the heart of historic Canterbury. This award winning facility provides state-of-the-art exhibition galleries, excellent educational facilities and a varied programme of events for all ages. The building takes its name from its benefactor, Dr James George Beaney, a Canterbury-born man of modest background who studied medicine before emigrating to Australia, where he found his success. Upon his death in 1891, Dr Beaney left money in his will to the city of Canterbury to build an ‘Institute for Working Men’ with amenities for men from poor backgrounds such as his own. His patronage was fundamental in building the Beaney Institute: a new home for the Canterbury Royal Museum and Free Library, now known as The Beaney House of Art & Knowledge. A cultural hub in East Kent, praised for its welcoming atmosphere, providing a range of services under one roof, uniting art, heritage, books, ideas, information and collections. Whether you are a frequent Library user, a teacher on a Schools Workshop, a parent enjoying the perfect cup of coffee in our Cafe or an inquisitive explorer studying our treasures from the Ancient worlds; The Beaney is a building for everyone.

Open to all and located in the heart of Canterbury's tourist route, you will find the Kent Museum of Freemasonry close to the Westgate Towers and a five minute stroll from the Cathedral. Entrance is free of charge, although voluntary donations are welcomed. The Museum is an Accredited Museum, meeting the nationally agreed standards of the Arts Council on collection care, museum management and the provision of information and services to visitors. The museum is a hidden treasure which boasts a rare collection of exhibits of national and international importance. Its collection of Masonic material is probably the finest in the UK outside of London.

Howletts Wild Animal Park is a 90 acre adventure in beautiful ancient parkland that is ideal for great days out in Kent with the entire family.

The Marlowe is one of the UK's leading theatres. Our programme includes some of the biggest and best artists and companies, with regular visits from the National Theatre, the Royal Shakespeare Company, Glyndebourne Touring Opera, Matthew Bourne’s New Adventures and the Philharmonia Orchestra. We have three spaces to enjoy: The Marlowe Studio, is a space dedicated to new writing and creative activity that reflects the spirit of Christopher Marlowe, Canterbury’s most famous son. The Marlowe Kit, located in Stour Street, houses a performance space, an Escape Room game and an innovative exhibition on Canterbury's writers. Our theatre also offers a major programme of creative activity for the community, that has seen thousands of people involved in workshops since we opened. These activities are for a range of ages and include regular sessions run by professional practitioners on theatre practice, playwriting and dance.

Built in 1380 the Westgate Towers is England's largest surviving Medieval Gateway. Explore its unique history and take in some of the most iconic views in the county of Kent. Approximately 60 foot high and built of Kentish ragstone c1380, it is the last surviving of Canterbury's 7 medieval gates, one of Canterbury's iconic landmarks. The Tower is a scheduled ancient monument and Grade I listed. Visitors can explore its rich history and take in the spectacular views of the city from the battlements viewpoint. Also part of the attraction are the original felons' cells built c1830 in the gaol extension which houses our Escape Room attraction. Enjoy 10% discount on food & drink at The Pound Bar & Kitchen on the ground floor with your receipt!