As a travel enthusiast still new to exploring beyond familiar places, I’ve come to appreciate that sometimes adventures don’t require distant flights—they can be found right in your own backyard. Growing up in London, I’ve had the chance to visit many of England’s vibrant cities, from Oxford to Brighton, fueling my curiosity about the country’s hidden gems.
Recently, a cousin’s hen party took us to Canterbury, a city frequently touted as one of the UK’s best. Ranked tenth in The Telegraph’s 2024 list of Britain’s top cities, Canterbury—with its rich medieval heritage and famous cathedral—seemed like the perfect escape.
A travel journalist praised Canterbury’s blend of market town charm, historic architecture, and cultural significance, noting its longstanding appeal as a pilgrimage destination. Yet, my personal experience fell short of these glowing reviews, leaving me with a sense of disappointment.
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The city’s architecture is undeniably picturesque. Walking along cobblestone streets lined with Victorian and Gothic buildings felt like stepping back in time. The narrow medieval alleys and riverside gardens offered some of the town’s most charming sights, and the historic boat tour provided a pleasant introduction to Canterbury’s story.
However, the mix of fast food chains and standard high street shops often disrupted the historical ambiance. The city’s compact size also limited the range of attractions. After a few hours, the streets began to blend together, and the initial enchantment wore off. The much-anticipated visit to Canterbury Cathedral was less rewarding than hoped—long queues and a £21 entry fee seemed steep, especially with ongoing renovations that restricted much of the interior.
Transport proved to be another challenge. Although our accommodation was only a 20-minute walk from the city centre, family members with mobility issues found the journey difficult. Public buses were inconveniently located, and taxi services were slow and unreliable, with waiting times ranging from 30 minutes to an hour. Accustomed to London’s efficient Uber system, this was a frustrating setback.
Nightlife also left much to be desired. With a sizeable student population, Canterbury’s energy thrives on its younger residents. However, visiting in late July—when most students had left—meant the city’s streets and bars were unusually quiet. On a Saturday night, despite several hen parties around, the overall atmosphere felt almost deserted. Venues emptied early, and post-clubbing rituals were limited to a late-night stop at McDonald’s before people headed home.
While Canterbury has undeniable historical charm and some lovely corners, my visit revealed its limitations—particularly outside peak academic seasons and for those seeking dynamic nightlife or accessible transport. For me, the medieval allure wasn’t quite enough to warrant a return trip soon.