As a budding traveller who has recently begun exploring both near and far, I’ve come to appreciate that adventure can be found just around the corner. Growing up mainly in London, I’ve had the chance to visit several vibrant English cities—from Oxford and Bristol to Brighton—each offering something unique. Yet, despite England’s wealth of destinations, my curiosity remains unquenched.
For my cousin’s hen party, we chose Canterbury, a city often ranked among Britain’s best. The Telegraph’s 2024 list places this historic Kentish city tenth, praising its medieval charm, lively market atmosphere, and iconic cathedral. As one travel journalist noted, “Canterbury rarely fails to dazzle visitors” and is steeped in history as the birthplace of tourism through pilgrimage.
However, my experience didn’t quite match this glowing reputation. While Canterbury’s medieval streets and historic sites initially impress, the overall visit left me feeling underwhelmed.
READ MORE: Care Home Owners Invest £1.4M to Prevent Flooding at Bath Riverside Site
READ MORE: Princess Andre Speaks Out Amid Peter Andre and Katie Price Feud
Architecture and Culture
Canterbury’s beauty is undeniable. Cobblestone streets, Victorian façades, Gothic spires, and green spaces like St Augustine’s Abbey and the ancient city walls lend a wonderful air of history. Walking through narrow alleyways felt like stepping back in time, and the boat tour along the river provided a pleasant perspective on the city’s heritage.
That said, modern elements like fast food chains and typical high street stores interrupt the historical ambiance, creating a somewhat jarring blend. The city’s compact size also limits the number of attractions; after a few hours, the medieval charm begins to fade as streets seem to repeat themselves. Additionally, visiting Canterbury Cathedral was disappointing due to a long weekend queue and a costly £21 entry fee, made worse by the building’s ongoing renovations restricting access.
Transport
As a Londoner, I pay close attention to public transport ease, and Canterbury left much to be desired. Although our accommodation was just a 20-minute walk from the centre, some family members struggled with the distance. Bus stops were not conveniently located, and the local bus service felt unreliable—far from the efficiency I’m used to.
Taxi services were equally frustrating, with waits stretching from 30 minutes up to an hour. Accustomed to the convenience of apps like Uber, these delays put a damper on our plans and mobility within the city.
Nightlife and Atmosphere
Canterbury’s nightlife is heavily dependent on its sizeable student population. According to the Telegraph, the city boasts a lively mix of historic pubs, modern restaurants, and independent shops. The King’s Mile exemplifies this fusion of old and new, and The Goods Shed is highly regarded as a charming food hall and farmer’s market.
However, visiting at the end of July, when most students had left, revealed a different side. The streets were eerily quiet, bars and clubs lacked patrons, and the overall vibe was subdued. On a Saturday night, despite encountering a few hen parties, the city felt more like a ghost town—revellers dispersed early, often retreating to fast food before heading home.
Conclusion
Canterbury undoubtedly holds historical significance and offers aesthetic appeal, but for me, the experience felt more average than enchanting. Its limited size, transport challenges, and seasonal nightlife fluctuations mean it’s unlikely I’ll be rushing back soon. Sometimes, even the most celebrated destinations don’t meet expectations, and Canterbury was one such city.