SUMMER
IN THE CITY
2021
What’s on, where to eat, shop and have fun in Canterbury
Canterburybid.co.uk/MyCanterbury
CANTERBURY POTTERY
Beautiful, handmade ceramics made on site. Come and see the pots being made and browse two floors of showrooms. (Find us opposite the main Cathedral entrance)
Made to use. Made to last. Made for you.
www.canterburypottery.com Follow us on Instagram @canterburypottery
Canterburybid.co.uk/MyCanterbury
@my_canterbury
Visitor Information Centre, 18 High Street, Canterbury CT1 2RA | 01227 862 162
@my_canterbury
WHAT’S INSIDE
MyCanterbury
Summer in the City 2021 Welcome to a Summer like no other!
With Canterbury now reopen for business, it’s time to remind ourselves how much there is to see, do and enjoy in our beautiful city. If you’re local, you may never have seen Canterbury through the eyes of a visitor. Ever been on a River Tour along The Stour? Spent an hour gazing at the incredible stone-glass of the Cathedral’s magnificent West Window? Or lost yourself for a morning underground, admiring the preserved Roman pavement in the city’s Roman Museum? And don’t forget – LIVE events are back too! We look forward to a summer of music, food, comedy and entertainment at dozens of venues around Canterbury. Whether you’re a resident, a local, a visitor or just passing through, you are invited to soak up our Heritage city at its finest. We’d like to extend a special thanks to our partners, Girlings Solicitors, who have kindly sponsored the Guide for Summer 2021. This helps us to publish 20,000 guides and distribute city-wide. The Summer in the City Guide is here to help you make the very best of your visits to Canterbury.
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129 bed Hampton by Hilton opens its doors
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What’s On calendar
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Kent’s Plan Bee
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The faces behind the businesses you know and love
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The Eastbridge Hospital
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Celebrating Becket 850
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Your Story Starts Here
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Running Canterbury
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Travel in the city
From the team at Canterbury Business Improvement District (BID).
Enjoy the Summer!
CANTERBURYGIFTCAR D.CO.UK
Brought to you by
Hampton by Hilton
129 bed Hampton by Hilton opens its doors in the city centre! As many who have walked past will know, this large site in St Margaret’s Street (the former Slatters Hotel), had been sad, neglected, boarded up and in a poor state... until this year when the Hampton by Hilton opened in Canterbury!
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The building will have new life breathed into it this summer when Hampton by Hilton, part of the global Hilton chain, will open a brand new 129 bedroom hotel (in June). It’s hoped that as well as refreshing the site itself, it will benefit the surrounding businesses in the newly formed Castle Quarter. The site development is the result of a 2012 conversation over coffee between Civil Engineer and East Kent local Zaw Htut and his friend, Chartered Surveyor, Mike Wood. Zaw persuaded Mike to take a look at a ‘site with potential’ in the centre of Canterbury. He believed it could be restored and be a fantastic asset to the city, although neither was in any doubt about how much work would lie ahead. 8 years on, they’re ready to open the doors! So how did it all happen? After much consultation with interested parties and potential partners, it was decided that a hotel would still be the preferred business on the site – and especially, a prestigious, international brand. Hampton by Hilton eventually sealed the deal. The designs and plan put together by local architect Guy Holloway divided opinion, with some arguing that a modern frontage would look stark and out of place in a heritage city.
Some parts of the original Tudor design have been retained; indeed, the customer entrance on St Margaret’s St will be directly through the old Tudor doors. Eleven of the 129 bedrooms are in the ‘old building’, with the rest in the new build. In the openplan hotel reception, guests can see part of an original Roman theatre under a glass floor, and there’s also a beautiful Tudor fireplace to admire. Two retail units will sit at the front of the hotel, and up on the roof, a stunning glass bar and restaurant will offer spectacular views across the medieval rooftops. At night, the view of the floodlit Cathedral dominates the skyline. The restaurant is to be run independently of the Hotel, and an operator is expected to be confirmed as we go to print. It’s going to be a great venue for parties, celebrations – even wedding receptions! The hotel also boasts a well-equipped gym for residents. Luckily, you don’t need to be staying at the hotel to enjoy many of its facilities. For non-hotel residents, an excellent breakfast is served daily and the lounge will provide both wi-fi and coffee – perfect for city centre work catch ups. There’s also a hire-able meeting room. The rooftop restaurant will of course be open to all. To have delivered such a prestigious project into the city centre – during a global pandemic – is a considerable achievement. We wish Hampton by Hilton a long and successful tenure in Canterbury!
Hampton by Hilton
A heritage consultant was employed to ensure that the historical ‘bones’ of the building were respected, whilst allowing the hotel to deliver a standard of comfort and amenities required by today’s pilgrims.
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ANY STYLE AS LONG AS IT’S YOURS
Explore our beautiful collection of Danish design furniture at BoConcept Canterbury. Our professional and friendly interior designers are always on hand to help and will offer you a comprehensive free interior design service.
D A N I S H DE S I G N S I N C E 1 9 5 2 | B O CON C E P T. C OM BO CON C E P T C A N T E R B U RY . 4 - 5 O R A N GE S TR E E T . C A N TE R B U RY . C T1 2J A 01 22 7 4 5 5 5 8 5 C A N T E R B U RY @ B O C O N C E P T. C O. UK
Full Afternoon Tea £26 Served daily 12pm – 5pm
CANTERBURY To book, call 01227 766 266 or visit www.abodecanterbury.co.uk
Located in the heart of the city close to the Westgate Towers, this historic 16th century pub boasts one of the largest beer gardens in Canterbury.
It is the perfect place to relax and escape the bustle of the city on a summer’s day. If you’re a sports fan, there’s even a TV screen outside – along with five large screens throughout the pub - showing all the latest action. As you would expect from Britain’s oldest brewer, a perfectly poured pint is on offer. There’s also a delicious menu of pub classics and bar snacks, available all day, every day.
The Bishops Finger bishopsfingercanterbury.co.uk St. Dunstan’s Street, Canterbury, CT2 8AF | 01227 768915
A traditional English pub in the heart of Canterbury
Relax in the sunny courtyard garden or watch the world go by from the on-street seating at this characterful city centre pub. In addition to a great selection of local beers, a delicious menu of traditional pub classics is on offer, including their famous homemade gourmet burgers.
The Cricketers cricketerscanterbury.co.uk 14 St Peter’s Street, Canterbury, CT1 2BQ | 01227 464227
Discover our new brands at Fenwick Canterbury
We are also pleased to announce the addition of Childrenswear to Fenwick Canterbury.
Fenwick.co.uk
What’s On Calendar
What ’s On Calendar
Things change (especially this summer)! Details correct at the time of printing, but please check with the organiser or venue near the time and bear in mind all Covid guidelines.
28th June - 11th July
Sat 24 July
Wimbledon Big Screen Whitefriars Square CT1 2TF
Westgate Hall Market
Pull up a deckchair – it’s that time again! Pimm’s Bar, Champagne Bar, strawberries and cream and all the matches screened LIVE on Canterbury’s BIGGEST ever LED Screen for FREE. Plenty of oooohhhs and aaahhhhs are guaranteed at Whitefriars’ Wimbledon event.
3 July – 1 August What Makes You Unique?
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The Beaney House of Art and Knowledge Exhibition of children’s artwork. ➜ Thebeaney.co.uk
This fabulous local market showcases talented Kent Makers, artists and producers, all in one place. Free entry, running from 11am-4pm. ➜ westgatehall.org
24 July – 10 October The Printed Line Exhibition The Beaney House of Art and Knowledge, High St.
22 July - 1 August
The Arts Council prints by major 20thcentury European artists alongside British artists, forming an outstanding collection of more than 1,500 printed works by over 500 artists. ➜ Thebeaney.co.uk
The Hound of the Baskervilles Tower House, Westgate Parks.
5 - 15 August
Tower House and Phil&Ben Productions invite you to join them for an evening of glorious riverside theatre at Tower House at the WestEnd smash comedy hit The Hound Of The Baskervilles. Join Canterbury’s panto favourite, Ben Roddy as the world’s finest detective alongside his faithful side-kick Doctor Watson and a host of far-fetched characters outdoors in the Westgate Gardens. There will be 10 socially distanced performances shown plus a free family day. ➜ marlowetheatre.com
Canterbury Shakespeare Festival 5 - 8 August: Macbeth at Greyfriars Gardens, Stour Street, CT1 2NQ 12 - 15 August: Much Ado About Nothing, Tyler Hill House, CT2 9LT. All shows run 7.30pm Thursday through Saturday, with 2pm matinees at the weekend. ➜ canterburyshakespeare.co.uk
Sat 28 August
CD and Record Fair Westgate Hall
Postcard & Collectables Fair Westgate Hall
Enhance your vinyl and CD collection at the popular Canterbury Record Fair, brought to you by UK Vinyl Vault. Open 9.30-3.30, free entry. ➜ Westgatehall.org
Enter the wonderful world of ephemera at the Canterbury Postcard and Collectors Fair. Open from 10am, free entry. ➜ westgatehall.org
7 August - 12 September Creative Journeys The Beaney House of Art and Knowledge A free exhibition of works created by Canterbury Art Group. ➜ Thebeaney.co.uk
19 - 22 August Summer at The Marlowe Marlowe Theatre A family-friendly outdoor festival, offering street theatre, music and lots of fun! ➜ marlowetheatre.com
28 - 29 August Kent Coffee Festival At Colyer Fergusson Hall, University of Kent A celebration of all things coffee from speciality roasters to artisan food producers with a vibrant exhibition and talks from some of the top industry experts. Sample, buy, participate in talks and watch live demonstrations and enjoy an Espresso Martini or two! Add to this a range of live, local music talent and an array of delicious street food and you’re guaranteed a great day out. ➜ kentcoffeefestival.co.uk
What’s On Calendar
Sat 7 August
28 - 30 August City Sound Project In The Park Dane John Gardens Summer music favourite, with free music festival, food and drink in the park. Free to enter. ➜ Facebook.com/citysoundproject
28 - 29 August Boing! Family Festival Gulbenkian, University of Kent Reunite with family and friends for an amazing weekend of the very best in theatre, dance, films and fun for all the family, packed with magical performances and experiences on the beautiful University of Kent campus. Free to enter, with indoor performances ticketed. ➜ boingfestival.com
10 - 19 September Heritage Open Days Various locations around the city Your chance to see inside Canterbury’s hidden buildings, gardens and venues, not always open to the general public. ➜ heritageopendays.org.uk
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What’s On Calendar
Sat 11 September
24 September – 10 October
Pride Canterbury Dane John Gardens
Green Hop Beer Fortnight various locations
A spectacular celebration of LGBT+ identity for the whole family, featuring a parade through Canterbury High Street, followed by live entertainment with food and drink in the Dane John Gardens. Come together to celebrate diversity, equality and progress. ➜ pridecanterbury.com
Kent Green Hop Beer Fortnight is your chance to taste newly released beers made from just-harvested hops produced by over 30 of Kent’s finest brewers. ➜ kentgreenhopbeer.com
24 - 26 September
Canterbury Medieval Pageant and Family Trail Canterbury city centre
Sat 25 September
Calling all medieval merry makers – Canterbury’s Medieval Pageant and Trail is back! This year the parade will feature a new Thomas Becket giant to mark his 850th anniversary. Then spend the afternoon revelling in Canterbury’s history as local heritage sites open their doors for crafts, performances and talks. ➜ canterburymedievalpageant.co.uk
Canterbury Secret Garden Party Milton Manor CT4 7PH
15-17 October
Canterbury Food and Drink Festival Dane John Gardens Everyone’s favourite way to round off the Summer – three days of amazing food, drink and music from around the world at Dane John Gardens. Free entry. ➜ Facebook.com/CTFoodFest
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Sat 16 October
Enjoy this daytime party with a special guest DJ set from Endor, on the grounds of a stunning manor house! Brought to you by the team behind Club Chemistry. ➜ Facebook.com/clubchemistry/events
Thurs 30 September Student Shopping Night Whitefriars Shopping Centre A ‘Welcome to Canterbury’ to new and returning Uni students, with special discounts offered by retailers, plus competitions and live music. ➜ whitefriars.co.uk
Oktoberfest Venue TBC With full bier hall decoration, and live Oompah band! Don your best lederhosen and grab a stein for this boozy celebration of Bavarian music, food and drink! This is an 18+ event. ➜ facebook.com/ CanterburyOktoberfest2021
16-30 October Canterbury Festival 2021 various venues Music, performance, dance, walks, talks, poetry, children’s workshops, comedy and more. A must for everyone who’s missed live performances this year. ➜ canterburyfestival.co.uk
The Little Mermaid Malthouse Theatre This hilarious underwater adventure is a laugh-aminute musical pantomime with glittering scenery, sparkling costumes and a memorable score you can sing along to and is suitable for the entire family. ➜ malthousetheatre.co.uk
Venues
The Penny Theatre - Northgate Lots of live music and entertainment dates for your diary. ➜ facebook.com/ThePennyTheatre/ The Marlowe Theatre - The Friars Canterbury’s premier live theatre venue has a varied and expansive schedule for Summer and Autumn 2021. ➜ marlowetheatre.com
Gulbenkian Theatre University of Kent Film, theatre, comedy, family events, festivals, music and more. ➜ thegulbenkian.co.uk Curzon Cinema - Westgate Hall Rd Three big screens, showcasing a programme of independent films from all over the world, as well as a range of exciting events including live opera, ballet and theatre broadcasts. ➜ curzoncanterbury.com Malthouse Theatre – Malthouse Rd (off St Stephens Rd) A state of the art theatre housed within a stunning conversion of a Victorian Malthouse. ➜ malthousetheatre.co.uk
Canterbury
AFTERNOON TEA 3-FOR-2 OFFER
Treat yourself to a traditional afternoon tea for three people at the Abbots Barton Hotel and only pay for two at just £33.90. For this exclusive offer, visit:
www.abbotsbartonhotel.com/AT342
Subject to availability, terms and conditions.
What’s On Calendar
Thurs 28 October
Celebrating our beautiful City Girlings is delighted to sponsor Canterbury BID’s summer guide to share with you the best places to eat, visit, and explore, that working in Canterbury we are lucky to enjoy on a regular basis.
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As one of the leading law firms in Kent, we’ve been successfully managing the legal affairs of both business and individual clients since 1881 with our first Canterbury office opening in 1906. Canterbury is now our head office based in the very heart of the city at 16 Rose Lane. We feel fortunate to live and work in an area that has so much to offer and are committed to supporting our local community. As long time sponsors and legal partners of Kent County Cricket Club, it was good to see #SuperKent lead Kent sport out of lockdown at the Spitfire Ground in April. We are active in charitable and other local initiatives including partnering with the BID on this summer guide as well as one of the leading sponsors of the Canterbury Wine Festival which celebrates the growing success of our local wines. We hope you enjoy your visit to to our magnificent cathedral city and will come again soon. For further details on our services visit girlings.com Offices in: Ashford | Canterbury | Herne Bay
Girlings Solicitors is proud to sponsor:
What’s important to you, is important to us. Expert legal advice for both your personal and business life: Personal Law:
Business Law:
n R esidential Property n Wills, LPAs, Estates & Inheritance Tax n Family Law: Children, Divorce & Separation n Personal Injury* n Clinical Negligence*
n n n n n
ommercial Property C Corporate & Commercial Employment Law Dispute Resolution Debt Recovery
Canterbury Office T 01227 768374 E enquiries@girlings.com
Ashford
Canterbury
Herne Bay
01233 664711
01227 768374
01227 367355
*Girlings Personal Injury Claims Ltd is a separate company authorised by the SRA No 522082. Photography: Jason Dodd
girlings.com
Independent craft brewery, distillery, bar and restaurant in Canterbury City Centre. Come and see our grain to glass brewing and distilling from behind the glass! We make over 16 craft beers and real ale as well as small batch distilled Gin with local botanicals, Rum, Vodka, Moonshine and Kent Whiskey too!
New Tour and Tasting experiences available ! Learn about our craft brewing and distilling process and then try the range after! Everything made from scratch on site. Impressive traditional homemade menu with American brew pub inspired additions!
Find us at 77 Stour Street Canterbury Open Mon-Saturday 12-12 Sunday 12-10 @foundrybrewpub
TheFoundryBrewPubCanterbury/
www.thefoundrycanterbury.co.uk
SUMMER DINING
The Refectory Restaurant, Canterbury Cathedral Lodge Located in the beautiful UNESCO grounds of Canterbury Cathedral Enjoy our splendid summer à la carte dinner 2-courses: £24 - 3-courses: £30 Open Wednesday to Sunday evenings To make a table reservation, please call 01227 865350
www.canterburycathedrallodge.org
Kent’s Plan Bee
Kent’s Plan Bee
“Every third mouthful of our food depends on insect pollinators.” (Buglife)
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For 2021, Canterbury will again be entered into South and South East in Bloom, showcasing its public open spaces, parks, hedgerows, river walks, marshlands and surrounding countryside. Despite Covid, we have a strong tradition of community groups, volunteers, nature organisations, schools, farmers, private businesses and councils coming together to do the very best for Canterbury’s green spaces.
In a city with lots of green space, and with Kent being The Garden of England, one might imagine that everything in Canterbury is at one with nature. However, Kent’s Plan Bee has been set up to alert residents to threats to wildlife, caused by changing climates, farming methods, housing developments, pesticides, loss of natural habitats and more. It includes a pollinator plan designed to protect these vital creatures and reverse their rapid decline.
They are crucial to Kent’s fruit farms – 40% of the county’s agriculture. They serve crops like oil seed rape, clovers and are important for livestock grazing and wildflowers. They add to the diversity of plant species, habitats and wildlife as well as its natural beauty - which also has an economic value. This provides food and makes Kent a better place to live, to enjoy and to visit. Losing our pollinators would be an ecological and economic disaster.
How can we protect them? Like all animals, pollinators need food - which for them is nectar and pollen foraged from a variety of flowering plants. Shelter: They need to be able to shelter, nest and overwinter in diverse habitats such as hedgerows, scrub and tall grass, burrows and holes in tree trunks. Forage: All pollinators need flowering, semi-natural habitats like wildflower meadows, hedgerows and woodland edges, hay meadows, clover-rich grassland, orchards and arable crops. In Kent many of these are declining and in short supply. Planting: Provide for pollinators by ensuring they have the right plants, such as common knapweed in wildflower meadows, red clover in pasture, hawthorn and bramble in hedgerows and woodland, and cosmos in bedding areas.
Who are the pollinators? Honey bees are the main, managed pollinators of crops. Hives may be moved from crop to crop and harvested for honey. Crops which benefit include orchards and soft fruits, (rose family), oilseed rape and other seed brassicas (cabbage family), peas and beans (legumes).
Kent’s Plan Bee
Pollinators are insects which are essential to our environment and they are declining fast. They are so-called because they carry pollen from flower to flower to grow the new generations of plants. Without them, a significant number of plants could not reproduce. A clear message is coming from scientists and wildlife organisations, that they need help and quickly otherwise all of us - plants, pollinators and people, face serious problems.
Bumblebees and solitary bees are essential to wild plant populations and to commercial crops in orchards, soft fruits and tomatoes. Wasps often feed on nectar while they wait to ambush insect prey, many of which are crop pests. Butterflies and moths feed on nectar. Hoverflies are abundant on flowers for much of the year and adults feed on nectar and pollen. They’re particularly important to carrots and apples. Their larvae’s diet includes other insects, so some predatory hoverflies are used as natural pest controllers. Mosquitos do not all bite! Females suck blood to develop eggs while males feed on nectar and so pollinate plants.
What’s being done? Kent’s Plan Bee is part of a countrywide movement. Find out more: http://bit.ly/KCCPlanBee
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Eat, drink and relax in the heart of the city at riverside inn The Miller’s Arms.
It is the perfect place to soak up the summer sun, with a selection of seating overlooking the River Stour, and an attractive courtyard garden to the rear. It offers 12 stylish and affordable en-suite rooms, many boasting cathedral views. And whether you are after breakfast, lunch or dinner, the Miller’s Arms serves a delicious menu all day, every day, using locally sourced seasonal ingredients.
The Miller’s Arms millerscanterbury.co.uk 2 Mill Lane, Canterbury, CT1 2AW | 01227 456057
TINY TIM'S TEAROOM Based in the heart of Canterbury, Tiny Tim’s Tearoom is a characterful building with an olde-worlde feel. A popular spot where you can while away an afternoon and sample a range of delicious sweet treats, pastries and cooked meals, and a brewed-to-perfection pot of your tea of choice. Offering a quintessentially British ambience, Tiny Tim's is great for intimate lunch gatherings with friends and family. The tearoom suits all tastes with savoury treats like a full English breakfast, fishcakes, soups and the chef’s signature quiche served alongside handmade cakes, scones and other baked goods. Tiny Tim’s highly popular afternoon tea is served all day, comprising sweet and savoury delights including finger sandwiches, as well as freshly baked scones and a choice of tea or coffee from the extensive range.
TINY TIMS TEAROOMS 01227 450 793 34 St Margaret’s St, Canterbury, CT1 2TG facebook.com/tinytimstearoom
Enjoy a warm welcome and fantastic fare in the unique surroundings of Canterbury’s oldest pub, dating back to the 14th century.
Tucked away down a quiet cobbled lane, just a short stroll from the Cathedral, this hidden gem also boasts one of the largest courtyard gardens in Canterbury. Food is served every day, with a delicious menu to suit all tastes and occasions, from light bites and traditional pub classics to à la carte chef’s specials. As you would expect from Britain’s oldest brewer, a perfectly poured pint is on offer. Choose from our extensive range of traditional cask ales.
The Parrot PUB & FINE DINING
parrotcanterbury.co.uk Church Lane, St Radigund’s, Canterbury, CT1 2AG | 01227 454170
My Canterbury
My Canterbury
We meet some of the faces behind the businesses you know and love. What makes Canterbury special for them? Miles Shuttleworth, General Manager at The Falstaff Hotel, St Dunstans
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The Falstaff was built in 1403 and is an original pilgrim's rest. The Falstaff was believed to have been built to accommodate travellers and pilgrims who arrived after curfew. Canterbury would close its gates every night to protect the city from raiders and thieves. Therefore, anyone arriving after the gates closed would require accommodation and hence our location just outside the Westgate Towers and ancient town walls. Today, we cherish our historic connection to Canterbury's ancient pilgrim history and keep the memories very much alive throughout the hotel.
Wojtek Skibin, Owner of Tiny Tim’s Tearoom, St Margaret’s Street I'm not being original when I say that Canterbury is a place where tradition meets modernity. It's where residents, students and tourists alike create an amazing atmosphere and melting pot. Canterbury is buzzing, thrilling and a great place not just to do business but to live. On the high street you have amazing independent shops, eateries, and ‘big’ names, there is something for everyone. Put simply, this is the ‘jewel’ of Kent.
Lea Walters, Stone Hairdressing, Marlowe Avenue I opened Stone Hairdressing in 1999. Originally from Maidstone, I fell in love with Canterbury and its quaint lanes and independent shops. I stumbled across the shop and knew it would make the perfect salon with its big windows and parking directly opposite, my dream was realised.
The Marlowe Theatre There has been a Marlowe Theatre in Canterbury since 1949, when the Central Picture Theatre in St Margaret’s Street was turned into a theatre. Our current Marlowe Theatre is approaching its 11th birthday in October of this year, so we are very much looking forward to celebrating this with our local community. Our whole team can’t wait to welcome audiences back into our theatre.
My Canterbury
Sam Scott,
Maxine Carney, The Camomile Rooms, St Margaret’s Street I opened the salon with my mother in 1990. On her retirement, I expanded the business and focused more on beauty. Subsequently, a long-standing employee Alex, became a partner in the salon. We chose Canterbury to situate our salon as it has always been a vibrant city with a large, diverse population. We are enthusiastic to get back to normal, not only to offer our treatments, but to catch up with our clients. Coming to the salon is as much about mental health as the beauty treatment. Clients can talk in a safe space and for some clients at the moment, it is the only physical contact they have.
Luke Underdown, Garage Coffee, Sun Street Canterbury is a brilliant, vibrant city and was the obvious choice for our first shop. Our (normal) customer base is so varied from workers to tourists, but over the last year it’s been really lovely to get to know some more residents who’d usually be on a daily commute. Plus, our shop is in such a fabulous location, steeped in history and are proud to be serving up such a high quality product amongst other great local businesses. Sitting down for coffee and cake is one of life’s greatest pleasures, right?
Emma Smith, The Lady Luck Pub, St Peter’s Street I have been Landlady of Lady Luck since it opened in 2009. I wanted to own a pub somewhere vibrant and diverse with a wide range of customers. Students and tourists keep Canterbury a thriving city. We have missed everyone so much. I can't wait to sit in the beer garden in summer with an ice cold cider!
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Curzon Cinema
Marlowe Kit
The Cathedra Quarter Guided Tours
28 The Castle Quarter
Canterbury city centre has free Wi-Fi access
al
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Cool summer flavours. Even cooler prices.
Available Now at McDonald’s Canterbury High Street Subject to availability. © 2021 McDonald’s.
Westgate Hall - where village meets city
MAKING YOUR EVENTS COME ALIVE A vibrant community venue for hire in the heart of Canterbury City centre, with community at its heart. westgatehall.org info@westgatehall.org 01227 634886
Spacious, distinctive, adaptable. Bright, airy, 360-sqm Covid-secure venue with adjacent car park.
Old City Bar, 2 Oaten Hill Place, Canterbury, Kent, CT1 3HJ Telephone: 01227 766882 | Email: oldcitybarcanterbury@yahoo.com @OldCityBar01
@oldcitybarcanterbury
s n e d r a G r e e B l fu ti u a e Big & B
The Dolphin, St. Radigunds Street, Canterbury, Kent, CT1 2AA Telephone: 01227 455 963 | Email: dolphincanterbury@hotmail.com @TheDolphinCanterbury
@dolphincanterbury
We put your property on Airbnb and provide a full service:
Listing & Management
24/7 Guest Support
Cleaning & Linen
Call our local experts for a quote.
www.passthekeys.co.uk
+44 122 793 1231
Insurance & Maintenance
The Eastbridge Hospital 34
The Eastbridge Hospital
Part of the city since 1190
One of Canterbury’s heritage gems is hiding in plain sight, right on the High Street. Most locals will have passed it hundreds of times, without stepping inside, or knowing much about it. Yet it remains one of the city’s most interesting and historic sites and is well worth a visit. Eastbridge Hospital (or Hospital of St Thomas the Martyr, Eastbridge to give it its full name) is not a hospital in the current sense, but in fact a place of ‘hospitality’. It was founded back in 1190 by Edward FitzOdbold, a local trader, providing accommodation and hospitality for pilgrims visiting the shrine of Thomas Becket at Canterbury Cathedral. For the last 800 years the Eastbridge has given shelter and help to pilgrims, soldiers, local societies and schoolchildren. Many may be unaware that the Eastbridge still provides a permanent home for a number of elderly people in Canterbury. An almshouse is charity-supported accommodation for the aged or those in need. The residents (or ‘Indwellers’) live independently, and all have connections to the city of Canterbury. Today, it remains in part, an almshouse and most of its historic parts are open to the public. The two chapels with the Hospital are in regular use and the Undercroft hosts a number of events throughout the year.
The Hospital is entered through a (very) low door, directly on the High St. Think about it – you have probably walked past many times, but possibly never thought about what lies within. That low door, where you step into the Undercroft is one of the city’s most historic and incredible entry points. You are quite literally walking in the footsteps of Becket’s pilgrims, for over 800 years. This first area is divided into cubicles where the pilgrims slept at the end of their weary journeys. Over the Undercroft is the Refectory, dating back to the 12th Century. On its wall is an 800 year old mural. Further along, up a little staircase at the end is a Chapel with a beautiful roof structure, containing a ‘bell cage’. The Chapel has been used over many centuries as a schoolroom. It is believed that Christopher Marlowe, Canterbury’s celebrated Elizabethan playwright, had lessons in this room before going on to study at The Kings School. The Eastbridge Trust also owns the wonderful Franciscan Gardens – another well kept secret in the city, a great spot by the river for peace and tranquility, a haven for wildlife and a perfect place for picnickers or those in need of a few minutes of quiet and restoration.
The Eastbridge Hospital 35 The Gardens will be accessed via a new High Street entrance and get their name from being the site of the first Franciscan settlement in Britain, in the 13th Century. Right in the centre of the busy city you can enjoy walking in the footsteps of the Franciscan monks as you enjoy the pretty gardens and Greyfriars Chapel. The garden is being replanted for 2021 reopening, to reflect its medieval origins. Timed entrances and guided tours will be available. The Eastbridge Hospital and the Franciscan Gardens are fascinating and inspiring places to visit. We hope that both visitors and locals will take time out to discover this wonderful place, right on the busy High St.
They look forward to welcoming you. eastbridgehospital.org.uk 25 High St, Canterbury CT1 2BD franciscangardens.org.uk
Celebrate your next special event in one of our beautiful venues
© Ryan Cox Photography
© Kit Myers
© Ryan Cox Photography
- Spaces for 50 - 200 guests - Wide range of versatile indoor and outdoor venues - Views over Canterbury and the Cathedral - Convenient location with plenty of free parking - On-site catering and en-suite guest accommodation.
© Kit Myers
www.kent.ac.uk/conference/ celebrations-and-weddings
Soak up the sunshine at this hidden historic gem within Canterbury’s city walls.
Relax in the large, secluded garden whilst enjoying real ales, handpicked British and international wines, gins, ciders and speciality cocktails. Food is served every day, with a delicious menu to suit all occasions, from grazing boards and bar snacks to home cooked pub classics.
White Hart Inn www.whitehart-canterbury.co.uk Worthgate Place, Canterbury, CT1 2QX | 01227 765091
Discover beautiful Burgate, for a truly special shopping experience Over 1000 years old, Burgate is the oldest trading street in Canterbury possibly even reaching back to Roman times.
Today you will find the best that Canterbury has to offer; quality products, services and professional expertise which spans over 250 years collectively.
Handmade jewellery, bespoke pottery, handcrafted gentleman’s shoes, specialist food shops, restaurants and giftware, home decor, bespoke opticians and beauticians, The Cathedral Quarter has everything here for a unique retail experience unlike anything you will find in the modern high street.
@cathedral_quarter_canterbury
Rediscover England’s First Cathedral
Discover 1,400 years of history at a UNESCO World Heritage site in the heart of the city New visitor experiences and tours Explore the Cathedral’s amazing spaces
www.canterbury-cathedral.org For more information: visitsenquiries@canterbury-cathedral.org
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YI LIN
is an independent shop located in Canterbury by the Cathedral Gate offering hand-made, unique jewellery. 18 Sun Street, Canterbury, CT1 2HX 01227 638 018 @Yilin Website: https://www.yilinat18.business.site Online Shop: www.yilin.co.uk
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A well stocked shop of many handmade earrings, brooches, necklaces etc of all colours and stones. It has a very attractive window display and a wonderful display inside with a huge selection. In fact you are spoiled for choice all at very reasonable prices.
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What a find!
Celebrating Becket 850
Celebrating Becket 850 Last summer should have seen celebrations for the 850th anniversary of the murder of Thomas Becket, Archbishop of Canterbury. The event was disrupted by the Covid lockdowns, but 2021 gives us another opportunity to celebrate Becket’s story, now titled ‘Becket 850’. This summer, you can learn more about Becket’s legacy with a special exhibition at The British Museum. Canterbury Cathedral’s ‘Miracle windows’ will be transported to London and form the centrepiece of the Becket exhibition.
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So who was Thomas Becket – and why does he still matter?
However, after being promoted to the position of Archbishop of Canterbury, the pair started to disagree over a number of issues regarding the Church and its freedom from politics. Becket fled to France, where he stayed for 6 years, until he was persuaded to return by Henry. Before returning he excommunicated 3 of his Church rivals, causing them to complain bitterly about him to the King.
Thomas Becket’s big career break came in 1155, when he was given the job of Chancellor of England by King Henry II. They became close friends, hunting, gaming and travelling together. Becket enjoyed life in the royal court: he had vast wealth, throwing lavish parties, decorating his residences with beautiful furnishings and making many journeys to France on his own ships.
King Henry II is said to have exclaimed ‘Who will rid me of this low born priest?’. Thus, to gain favour from the King, four knights set off for Canterbury and murdered Archbishop Thomas Becket in Canterbury Cathedral in 1170. They sliced off the top of his skull, spilling his brains and blood on the floor. Chaos followed the murder, and his body remained where it had fallen for some hours.
Some people dipped their clothes in his spilled blood or collected it in small vessels to take away in anticipation of Becket’s future sanctity. After spending the night on the high altar of the Cathedral, he was buried by the monks the next day in the crypt. Reports immediately circulated of miraculous healings connected to Becket. Facing a clamour from the people of Canterbury, the monks opened the crypt of the Cathedral so pilgrims could visit his tomb. An extraordinary wave of miracles was recorded and, in recognition of this, Becket was made a saint in 1173. Becket’s reputation as a miracle-working saint spread quickly and pilgrims from across Europe flocked to Canterbury hoping to be healed. As well as visiting the tomb, pilgrims could also purchase a mixture of his blood and water, called St Thomas’ Water, which was bottled and sold by opportunistic monks. They bought pilgrim badges to mark their journey – an early Canterbury visitor souvenir! King Henry II, held responsible by many for the murder, walked barefoot from Harbledown to the Cathedral to do penance. He was flogged by monks in front of Becket’s tomb as he declared his regret. In commemorating the story, the Cathedral commissioned a set of great stained glass windows – The Miracle Windows in Trinity Chapel. Many medieval pilgrims visiting the tomb of St Thomas would not have been able to read and write, so these were used to to educate and ‘entertain’ pilgrims.
Becket is seen as a beacon, representing religious freedom. His story has endured for 850 years, and he continues to draw modern day pilgrims to visit Canterbury. He is known as a statesman, a scholar, a chancellor, a priest and an archbishop.
Celebrating Becket 850
So what can we learn by celebrating Becket’s anniversary in 2021?
In 2020, The White House proclaimed “To honor Thomas Becket’s memory, the crimes against people of faith must stop” adding that the “tyranny and murder that shocked the conscience of the Middle Ages must never be allowed to happen again.” becket2020.com/resources illustrates some of the different pilgrim trails.
41 Canterbury is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, comprising Canterbury Cathedral, St Augustine’s Abbey and St Martin’s Church. Come visit to find out more about Canterbury’s exciting history.
Canterbury’s Medieval Pageant and Family Trail is 16 Oct in the City Centre. Come and see the Becket giant. canterburymedievalpageant.co.uk Thomas Becket 850 Anniversary britishmuseum.org/exhibitions/ thomas-becket-murder-andmaking-saint Get FREE entry to the Cathedral if you live within 4 miles of the Bell Harry Tower or work in the old city. canterbury-cathedral.org/visit/ opening-times-entry-charges
Canterbury’s Creative Quarter
The King’s Mile, an area steeped in history, is just a step away from the busy high street. You’ll find independent shops and traditional traders offering handcrafted jewellery, hand-painted china, games, gifts, new and original clothing and more. And when the day of shopping is done, the King’s Mile offers an extraordinary range of food and drink, from locally produced ales in traditional pubs to fine wines and food from across the globe. Walk along palace street to visit the infamous Wonky Door at Sir John Boy’s House, or take a look at Conquest House, where four knights met to plot the murder of Thomas Becket, a deed that changed the course of history and one that put Canterbury on the world-map for centuries to come.
HOMEMADE MEALS COOKED BY OUR TRAINEES AS THEY WORK ALONGSIDE US TO BREAK BARRIERS TO EMPLOYMENT.
Come and see us at Lily’s Social Kitchen CIC, 15 Palace Street, CT1 2DZ
01227 761 999 | info@lilysbistrocatering.com
C AK E, CO FFE E AN D LU N C H TR EA TS PR EPA RE D F OR YO U TO EA T IN OR TA KE AW AY
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Kent’s ONLY Roman museum Discover one of the UK’s only remaining in situ Roman pavement mosaics and a Scheduled Ancient Monument. Built within the remains of an original Roman town house, visitors can wander through the marketplace and discover hidden treasures as you step back, and down, to the streets of Roman Canterbury… Open daily 10am to 5pm Butchery Lane, Canterbury CT1 2JR canterburyromanmuseum.co.uk
Image credit: Rachel Whiteread, LOndOn 2O12, 2011. Arts Council Collection, Southbank Centre, London © the artist
Including our NEW Interactive Projector Games!
ADM The Printed Line ISS FRE ION Saturday 24 July to E D ON ENC ATION OUR S Sunday 10 October 2021 AGE D Featured artists include David Hockney, Henri Matisse, Pablo Picasso and more.
Closed Mondays
Special Exhibitions Gallery
The Beaney House of Art and Knowledge 18 High Street, Canterbury CT1 2RA
thebeaney.co.uk
A warm welcome is guaranteed at this historic 18th century pub in the heart of Canterbury, just a stone’s throw from the Cathedral.
The Shakespeare boasts an extensive menu of delicious dishes, from tasty sandwiches and light bites to gourmet burgers and pub classics served with a contemporary twist. You’ll also find a great range of traditional cask ales and contemporary lagers, along with a choice selection of premium wines and spirits, soft drinks and a full hot drinks menu. Food is served al day every day, and no booking is required – just come and find us!
The Shakespeare PUB, DINING & ALE HOUSE shakespearecanterbury.com Butchery Lane, Canterbury, CT1 2JR | 01227 463252
Café St Pierre Celebrating 26 years in business, this family-run cafe near Westgate towers offers generously-filled, innovative baguettes, quiches, salads, cakes and pastries plus
• To be enjoyed in a friendly atmosphere • Try the typical French ‘Petit dejeuner’ served till noon • Open 7 days a week - 8am - 6pm (Sun - 9am - 5.30pm) • Outdoor seating at the rear • Take-away service available A bientôt! Michel and his team.
#1 on Tripadvisor
Private Shopper Prosecco Nights
Open Wed-Sun 11am-5pm @walrusandoyster #walrusandoyster walrusandoyster@gmail.com 01227 764 829 #supportindependents
Angels
A family-run business in the heart of canterbury Age range from 16yrs + Bespoke jewellery Unique gifts and home wear Quirky fashion and footwear Council approved body piercing studio 30+ yrs experienced staff, family-run independent store. Open 7 days a week.
Visit Angels: 29 St. Margaret’s St, CT1 2TG 01227 479200 angelscanterbury@hotmail.co.uk www.angelscanterbury.com angels_canterbury
Winkworth is pleased to be supporting the Canterbury Bid We have a long heritage selling and letting property since 1835 and would be pleased to assist you with your property needs. From city centre to country and coast, we’ve got property covered!
01227 456 645 winkworth.co.uk/canterbury for ever y step…
Your story starts here
Your story starts here
Home to some of our country’s most fascinating stories, Canterbury is shaped by nature, history and its people. From Romans, to royalty, saints to knights and playwrights to pilgrims - from the River Stour to rolling vineyards and wandering bison; you can create an exciting itinerary to explore Canterbury’s city, coast and countryside.
If you’re looking for some inspiration, we’ve come up with some top tips to make the most of your visit… Uncover your inner sleuth
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A brand-new outdoor detective experience in Canterbury – from the makers of Sherlock: The Official Live Game. Sherlock needs your help! Uncover a series of clues, conundrums, and codes that need to be cracked in this original Sherlock-inspired challenge. Gather your most esteemed group of intrepid friends to find key evidence and solve the mystery.
Discover the light and dark of the city Step back in time and learn about the city’s fascinating history with Canterbury Guided Tours. Run by expert Green and Blue Badge Guides, you will take in some stunning sites as you wind through the cobbled streets. Or for something more spooky, explore some of the grim and gruesome stories buried in the medieval city’s past with one of the famous Canterbury Ghost Tours. And for those wanting to see the city’s quieter and greener side, there’s CT Tours’ Wellbeing Walk.
River Tales One of the best ways to explore the city is by water. You can snuggle up on a private tour with Canterbury Punting Co., or learn about Canterbury’s history with the Historic River Tours – whichever you choose, you’ll see hidden parts of the city and learn fascinating facts in dreamy surroundings. If you prefer to take to the oars yourself, book an adventure with Canoe Wild based at Fordwich, Britain's smallest town. Choose from sunrise or sunset paddles taking in the lush countryside and wildlife, or kayaking or paddleboard courses. Image courtesy of Ersilia D
850 years ago, one of the most famous events in Canterbury’s history took place – the murder of Thomas Beckett in Canterbury Cathedral. Since then, millions of Pilgrims and visitors have made their way to the holy site, and it remains one of the most visited places in the country. No day out in Canterbury would be complete without a visit to this fantastic UNESCO World Heritage site.
Your story starts here
Explore 1,400 years of history
Head further up the coast to Bishopstone for fossil hunting, follow in the footsteps of Romans at Reculver Towers, or revive yourself in Herne Bay dubbed the ‘Healthiest spot in England’ by the Victorians. Take the path less travelled
Walk among the vines The countryside surrounding Canterbury produces some of the finest sparkling wines in Europe, so why not treat yourself to a trip to an awardwinning vineyard while you’re here! You’ll be able to experience beautiful scenery on a guided tour and sample some fizz with a cellar door tasting at Chartham Vineyard, Barnsole Vineyard or Simpsons Wine Estate.
Wander through mature oaks which hide lesser spotted woodpeckers and nightingales in Blean Woods National Nature Reserve; one of the largest areas of ancient woodlands in southern Britain. Or explore off the beaten track and walk or cycle the Crab and Winkle Way, a disused railway line between Canterbury and Whitstable - the first railway in England to carry passengers in steam-hauled trains!
Indulge in some vitamin-sea Canterbury is more than a first-class cultural heritage city, it also boasts an award-winning coastline that’s so close it makes an easy ‘add-on’ to your trip. While in Whitstable, take a boat trip to watch the seals, sail around the 1940s army forts standing like giants in the sea, or indulge in fresh seafood from the working harbour and fish market.
Make your story part of our story #OurCanterburyTales Visit canterbury.co.uk or follow us on
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Running XXXXXXXXXXXX Canterbury
Running Canterbury 50
The last year has encouraged us to spend more time outdoors. Running and spending more time outside has become part of many people’s routine. It is said that in Canterbury you are never more than 5 mins walk from a green, open space. Many Canterbury locals have embraced running, to keep body and soul healthy. Canterbury has some great running routes, many of which take in the historic city centre. It makes sense, then, to learn a little about the sites as you run by. Andy Johnson runs (no pun intended) ‘Canterbury Running Tours’. He offers bespoke running experiences for all abilities, for groups or 1:1. A typical 1 hour run with Andy takes in many historic sites (and many lesser known corners), stopping to share fascinating stories of the city’s special places. Says Andy “I love running here… there are passageways and hidden paths throughout, which means that you run for miles without encountering any traffic. I also love how quickly you can get out into the countryside and the fact that there are so many vineyards and orchards
right outside the city walls. As a runner, you really have the best terrain on your doorstep, from flat city streets and river paths to trails and hills, all within a few miles of the city centre.” One of Andy’s favourite Canterbury Tales that he shares is the origin of the word ‘canter’ in the English language. “With the curfew in place and the city gates closing in the evening, pilgrims would need to ‘make Canterbury pace’ on their horses to make it in time. This was shortened over time to ‘canter’. The fact that many pilgrims didn’t make it to the city gates in time led to all of the inns opening on St Dunstan’s St.” Other running groups in the city are also keen to promote the benefits of exercise – and also its effects on mental health and wellbeing. Beginners2Runners specialises in taking complete beginners and turning them into runners.
1) The biggest mistake people make is to do too much, too soon. They then give up. 2) It’s not always easy but nothing worthwhile ever is. If you never try, you’ll never know. 3) The physical and mental benefits of running are amplified when running in a group, who motivate and look after each other.
For those who grow to love running, whether beginners or marathon runners, Canterbury’s place to head is friendly, independent store The Running Outlet in Palace St. Owners Dom and Ty and their team are all runners and can offer seasoned advice on the best footwear and gear. You can also have your gait analysis in-store on the running machine, to ensure your footwear is best supporting the way you move, and the surfaces you run on. By wearing the correct type of shoe, you’ll be more likely to stay injury free and enjoy your running more.
Running Canterbury XXXXXXXXX
Their 10 week 0-5k course begins with 1 minute runs and builds up from there. It’s an opportunity to get mutual support from the team leaders and other runners – all of whom were complete novices not long before! Gareth Cronk of the club offers these 3 observations
Find advice on running, including rest days, warm-ups, stretches and more at therunningoutlet.co.uk
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You’ll find some great routes in and around Canterbury at: alltrails.com/england/kent/ canterbury/trail-running facebook.com/groups/ Beginners2RunnersCanterbury Canterbury Running Tours: canterburyrunningtours.com therunningoutlet.co.uk
It’s not too late late. You can still apply for this September September.
FIND OUT MORE
canterbury.ac.uk
Kent’s Family Arts Festival Sat 28 & Sun 29 Aug 2021
Reunite with family and friends this summer for an amazing weekend of the very best in performance, films and fun for all the family. www.boingfestival.com
FREE ENTRY
Travel in the city Local bus services
The Canterbury district is served by Stagecoach South East buses based at Canterbury Bus Station in the city centre on St George’s Lane, CT1 2SY. Visit stagecoachbus.com or download the Stagecoach Bus App to plan your bus journey. You can check live bus times too! No change? No problem! Stagecoach has new cashless ways to pay for bus travel. You can now buy day and weekly tickets on the Stagecoach Bus App, or pay contactless onboard. You can pay contactless for transactions under £30 using your contactless enabed credit or debit card, Apple Pay, or Android Pay. Students – Stagecoach offers discounted academic year tickets for stidents – studentrider tickets for all students or unirider tickets for Canterbury Christ Church University or University of Kent students. Visit stagecoachbus.com for more details.
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Park & Ride At £4.00 per day, Park and Ride is the greenest, cheapest and fastest way to get to the heart of the city. There are three park and ride sites located around the city, with regular bus services to the city centre. For more details call 01227 862 000 or visit the website canterbury.gov.uk/parkandride • New Dover Road – CT1 3EJ • Sturry Road – CT1 3EJ • Wincheap, Ten Perch Road – CT1 3TY
Whilst Park and Ride buses finish running at 7.30pm, regular Stagecoach buses along the New Dover Road and Sturry Road will accept P&R tickets, and the car park barriers remain open during the evening to exit. New Dover Rd, 7.30pm-11.30pm (buses 15, 16, 17) Sturry Rd, 6.00pm-11.15pm (buses 6A, 8, 8A)
Parking Canterbury has 24 hour car parks near the city centre – see the map on page 28-29 to find where or visit the website canterbury.gov.uk/parking or call the Canterbury Visitor Informatiom Centre on 01227 862 162
What’s important to you, is important to us. It’s the people that make Girlings different – friendly and down to earth we work hard to provide an excellent service. Our lawyers and legal advisers are acknowledged experts in their specific fields of law. We are proud of our roots in Kent – we have been successfully managing the legal affairs of commercial, family and individual clients since 1881 – and are committed to playing our part in making the county a successful place to live and work.
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A family-run independent store in the heart of Canterbury where you will find the perfect gift for all occasions.
The Chinashop
20 Burgate, Canterbury , Kent, CT1 2HG
01227 230970 info@thechinashop.co.uk LUXURY GIFT WRAPPING AND DELIVERY SERVICE
www.thechinashop.co.uk