The sun is shining on our beautiful city once again, and MyCanterbury is here to help you plan for a summer to remember.
Much like the recent Coronation of King Charles III, we celebrate our city’s history and tradition, whilst welcoming new businesses, events and experiences - the city is never lacking in these!
From our guide we hope that you’ll discover something new, meet some of the people behind our vibrant city and make some great summer plans.
Whatever Canterbury is for you (your home, place of study, work or a shortbreak destination) there’s much to see this summer. Let our guide help you get the best from our city.
The Canterbury BID Team. With thanks to our friends at Girlings Solicitors for their support in producing this year’s Summer Guide.
04. Love local shopping
07. Canterbury Festival
08. What’s on this summer
14. The Chaucer Book Shop
18. A city fit for a queen
21. Spotlight on Northgate
26. Map of the city
30. Oscar & Bentley
34. Best book shops
The perfect gift this summer!
Accepted in over 120 city centre shops, salons, cafés, restaurants and venues
Canterbury is fortunate to have a great mix of high street brands and independent businesses dotted along its cobbled streets so you can always find what you need on a shopping trip, and support local while you’re at it. Just over 68% of our city centre businesses are independent, with incredible crafts people creating one-of-a-kind products on site.
For unique home and tableware, there is plenty to choose from in the city. Canterbury Pottery’s husband and wife team create gorgeously glazed items in their studio/shop in the Buttermarket. Canterbury Glass Art in Palace Street produces one of a kind glass items in their onsite workshop where visitors are welcome to watch the glass being made. Cosmo China works with 20 artists and illustrators at their Palace Street studio, hand painting their own original designs on fine china. If you need your own artwork carefully framed, look no further than Hawkswells in St Radigunds, Sowley Gallery on St Peter’s Street and Lilford Framing on Castle Street.
When you need a sugar fix, make sure you get the quality stuff! Madame Oiseau in The Borough is the place to go for handmade chocolates, lovingly made by French chocolatier Sandrine May. For fudge-a-holics stock up from the maestros at Fudge Kitchen and Roly’s Fudge in the Cathedral Quarter. Using traditional methods, this is some serious crumbly goodness.
Canterbury has a beautiful collection of shops dedicated to showcasing the work of Kentish makers, which means they are perfect for finding one-of-a-kind gifts or treats for your home.
Check out Rock Paper Scissors in Stour Street, Platform Gallery in St Dunstan’s Street, Canterbury Makers in Whitefriars and Walrus and Oyster, Happy and Glorious and Violet Elizabeth in Burgate for artwork, jewellery, fashion, stationery, luscious beauty products, elegant homeware, and textiles.
If you need a boozy gift, head straight to Canterbury Brewers and Distillers in Stour Street. All of their exceptional ales are brewed on the premises using local Kentish hops, and they have gift packs of beer available to buy. They also distil their own Canterbury Gin and whiskey!
You can also stock up on a huge array of veggie health foods at Canterbury Wholefoods and then pick up a bottle of Kentish wine from Corkk as you walk down Burgate.
Share the love with your snaps of local purchase on social media
@visitcanterbury
#lovecanterbury
Madame Oiseau
Canterbury Festival are delighted to present their third Summer in Barham (20-23 July) a series of events celebrating live performance in the beautiful setting of Barham Court, along with music and talks at Barham church and village hall.
Audiences are encouraged to bring chairs, blankets and a picnic to Barham Court, buy a raffle ticket and help raise money for the Festival’s year-round work. The full programme will be announced in May but
you can keep up to date by joining their mailing list at canterburyfestival.co.uk
Later in the year Kent’s International Arts Festival will return to Canterbury from 26 September – 4 November, so be sure to keep your eyes peeled for this year’s full programme launch on Monday 17 July. Tickets for Gabrielle’s intimate concert at the Great Hall on Friday 3 November are already on sale, so don’t leave booking yours too late.
For more info and booking visit canterburyfestival.co.uk or call 01227 457568. You can also keep up to date with the latest news and events by signing up to the Festival mailing list, or by following the Festival on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @canterburyfest.
20-23 July 2023
➜ canterburyfestival.co.uk
The Marlowe Theatre
Our biggest theatre has a host of wonderful shows running throughout the summer including Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Sister Act, 42nd Street and the new Take That musical Greatest Days. Don’t miss it.
➜ marlowetheatre.com
The Beaney House of Art and Knowledge
A wide range of fascinating exhibitions and events throughout the summer to keep you entertained. Most are free – please check website for details.
➜ canterburymuseums.co.uk
Gulbenkian Arts Centre
Live music, comedy shows, dance, theatre and film screenings and so much more!
➜ thegulbenkian.co.uk
Kent Cricket Spitfire Ground St Lawrence
Enjoy home cricket fixtures throughout the summer including the incredibly popular Vitality Blast sessions.
➜ kentcricket.co.uk
6 May – 23 July
Claude Cahun: Beneath This Mask
The Beaney House of Art and Knowledge
This Hayward Gallery Touring exhibition features the work of French female photographer Claude Cahun (1894–1954), whose practice investigates gender and identity.
canterburymuseums.co.uk
20 May
The Canterbury Wine Festival Westgate Hall
Sip, celebrate and savour the splendour of Kent wine at Westgate Hall’s one-day tasting event. Meet Master of Wine Clive Barlow MW and Kent’s multi-award-winning vineyards as they introduce the flavours that are making Kent the most exciting wine region in the UK.
➜ westgatehall.org
10-11 June
Pride Canterbury
Canterbury city centre
Celebrate 50 years of Pride in Canterbury –a spectacular celebration of LGBTQ+ identity for the whole family set in the heart of Canterbury. Featuring a parade through Canterbury High Street, followed by live entertainment with food and drink in the Dane John Gardens over two days.
➜ pridecanterbury.com
7-14 June
Canterbury Cricket Week
Spitfire Ground St Lawrence
The oldest Cricket Festival in England, now in its 171st year. Enjoy three matches over the week with Kent vs Essex (Battle of the Bridge), Kent vs Hampshire Hawks, plus the county championship match against Surry (10-14 June). The latter is the oldest rivalry in world cricket and is the scheduled home debut match for Arshdeep Singh!
➜ kentcricket.co.uk
17 June
Canterbury Choral Society perform Brahms and Mendelssohn
Canterbury Cathedral Nave Brahms Requiem and Mendelssohn: Hear My Prayer ‘O for the Wings of a Dove’.
Canterbury Choral Society will be joined by the world-class London Mozart Players and promise an evening of high drama and deep musical intensity.
➜ canterburychoral.co.uk
1 July
Canterbury Medieval Pageant and Family Trial
Canterbury city centre
This year the theme is Medieval Animals! Expect a day of fun for all ages with historical characters and re-enactment groups, music and giants, along with a family trail. The Westgate Towers, The Beaney, St Augustine’s Abbey, and many more be welcoming visitors with a range of free activities including a chance to meet medieval characters and you can even visit a medieval encampment!
➜ canterburymedievalpageant.co.uk
8 -9 July
Canterbury City Show
A celebration of our city, it’s people and everything that makes it glorious. From workshops and talks to music and food, there will be something for everyone. Help shape this new event by joining the ‘Canterbury Residents Group’ and ‘Canterbury Community Group’ on Facebook.
➜ bit.ly/canterburycityshow
21 July
Stars of London’s West End Perform
“An Evening of Queen”
Spitfire Ground St Lawrence
A dazzling collection of performers, including former stars from the smash hit musical ‘We Will Rock You’, present a tribute to one of the world’s greatest rock bands.
➜ kentcricket.co.uk
22 July
Stars of London’s West End Perform
“An Evening of ABBA”
Spitfire Ground St Lawrence
West End stars, including former cast members from the extremely popular musical Mamma Mia! joining to perform a sensational concert of ABBA’s greatest hits.
➜ kentcricket.co.uk
22-23 July
Sun Rose Arts Festival
Dane John Garden
A weekend festival bringing poetry, music, dance, theatre and the visual arts to the Canterbury community.
➜ sunroseartsfestival.wordpress.com
21 July – 13 August
Canterbury Shakespeare Festival Canterbury City Centre and Tyler Hill House
This year’s productions will be Romeo and Juliet, Henry V, Merry Wives of Windsor plus The Changeling and Don Quixote.
➜ canterburyshakespeare.co.uk
26-27 August
Boing! International Family Festival University of Kent
An amazing weekend of the best in theatre, dance, films and fun for all the family, packed with magical performances and experiences on the beautiful University of Kent campus in Canterbury.
➜ boingfestival.com
7 September
Elizabethan Canterbury: Talk, Tour and Afternoon Tea
Canterbury Cathedral Archives and Library
Marking 450 years since Queen Elizabeth I celebrated her birthday at Canterbury Cathedral on 7 September 1573. Enjoy a display from the unique collections of the Cathedral Archives and Library and a talk about the royal visit. It will finish with a Tudor-inspired Full Afternoon Tea in the Refectory Restaurant.
➜ canterburycathedrallodge.org
8-17 September
Heritage Open Days
Various locations
Your chance to see hidden places, buildings and venues in your community – and it’s all FREE.
➜ heritageopendays.org.uk
22-24 September
Canterbury’s Cooking: A Festival of Food and Drink
Dane John Garden
Enjoy a celebration of food and drink in the glorious surroundings of the Dane John Gardens.
➜ zoomevents.co.uk
22 September – 6 October
Green Hop Beer Fortnight
Across Canterbury and Kent
Your chance to taste newly released beers made from just-harvested hops produced by over 30 of Kent’s finest brewers.
➜ kentgreenhopbeer.com
26 September – 4 November
Canterbury Festival
Various Canterbury locations
An arts extravaganza with music, performance, talks, family events, science and more in the heart of the city. Something for everyone including a special appearance from Gabrielle!
➜ canterburyfestival.co.uk
20 May, 17 June, 15 July,
19 August, 16 September
Kent Vegan Market
St Peter’s Church, Canterbury
Running every third Saturday of the month, enjoy a wide variety of vegan products.
➜ facebook.com/KentVeganEvents
27 May, 17 June
Westgate Hall Market
Showcasing talented Kentish artists, makers and producers. Find the best in local Kentish produce, artisan crafts and much more. Keep an eye out for Vintage Fairs too.
➜ westgatehall.org
Cookery Classes
The Cook’s Tale, Beer Cart Lane
Spend an evening with award-winning Chef Dev Biswal, cooking three courses of outstanding food with other like-minded individuals.
➜ thecookstale.co.uk
Art, Textiles and Decoupage Classes
Rock Paper Scissors, Stour Street
A collection of friendly classes, workshops and community activities for makers new and old.
➜ rockpaperscissors.co.uk
Creative Workshops
Happy and Glorious, Burgate
From Lampshade making and bullet journaling through to an introduction to Fairisle knitting.
➜ happyglorious.co.uk
Inspired by Japanese classics of sushi, we o er raw fish - high grade and super fresh - but if that’s not to your taste then there is also a selection including cooked fillings such as crab meat and prawn, and plenty of vegetarian options. And now we have hot dished too!
Celebrating 27 years in business, this
family-owned cafe near Westgate towers 12
• 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 in the wonderful garden
• Take-away service available
A bientôt! Alan, Maria and the team
The Refectory Restaurant, Canterbury Cathedral Lodge
Located in the beautiful historic grounds of Canterbury Cathedral
Enjoy a splendid à la carte dinner - with alfresco dining available
Open Wednesday to Saturday evenings
To make a table reservation, please call 01227 865350
www.canterburycathedrallodge.org
One of the city’s stalwart businesses is The Chaucer Book Shop. Established in 1956 and owned by Sir Robert Sherston-Baker, 7th Baronet, it specialises in antiquarian and rare books.
Sir Robert’s title is a story in itself and goes back to King George III and 18th century Richmond (Surrey), when his paternal ancestor raised and maintained a cavalry regiment of 500 men called “The Richmond Rangers” for King George III. He was repaid with the title of Baronet. Sir Robert is the 7th generation and the title will pass to his eldest surviving son.
An obvious intellectual bibliophile, surprisingly Sir Robert hated school; “I was sent to Australia as a teenager by my parents to work on a farm to find my calling in life, it didn’t work. I came back to the UK and took a job with a friend’s firm in London.”
“It was here that I discovered a love of books. Two years later, I heard about the sale of the shop in Canterbury and took over the business in 1976.”
Behind the title is the wonderful gentleman who is happily known as just Robert and is a pleasure meet. He always offer customers a warm welcome to his shop on Beer Cart lane as do his team, some of whom have been there 26 years.
The business has navigated many changes across the decades but the biggest challenge was the pandemic.
Robert said that, “Without the help of government grants, we probably wouldn’t still be here today.”
Make sure to pop in and explore this remarkable business, there is so much to discover! You will find the bookshop located in Canterbury’s Castle Quarter at 6-7 Beer Cart Lane, Canterbury CT1 2NY.
1. What do you enjoy most about running your business? You never know who is going to walk into the shop and what they might bring. It has always been an interesting career.
2. What has been one of your most interesting items to come in?
One of the nicest books was a small book of poems by Wordsworth, an early edition. Inside it was a pressed daffodil and a note from the original owner of the book, saying this daffodil was picked for me by Mr Wordsworth himself.
3. Have you had any notable customers in the shop over the years?
Yes many who are well-known in the media – but I don’t want to name drop. We respect their privacy.
4. What do you hope your customers will experience when they visit the shop?
I hope that they go away with something unusual, as there are very few book shops around, we make them feel welcome and try to be helpful. A lot of customers come in for unique present ideas too.
5. How far away do your books get sent?
All over; China, Russia, Australia, the furthest is New Zealand and we have a lot of customers who will travel to us by train at the weekends – and if they buy lots, we can always send them on, to save them carrying too much.
6. What do you enjoy most about the city?
Westgate gardens are lovely for a wander around with the chalk stream, fish and punts on a fine day.
7. Which other places do you recommend customers visit in Canterbury? The Cathedral, which goes without saying, the galleries in Castle Street, and Rock, Paper, Scissors is a very nice shop. The White Hart pub in Castle Street is very friendly with a nice team.
Saturday 6 May to Sunday 23 July 2023
Special Exhibitions Gallery, The Beaney House of Art & Knowledge
18 High Street, Canterbury CT1 2RA
Closed Mondays
thebeaney.co.uk
£3
Gallery Touring exhibition features the work of French female photographer Claude Cahun (1894–1954), whose practice investigates gender and identity.
This Hayward
Claude Cahun
Canterbury has been at the heart of many landmark historical events and 2023 is no exception with the King’s Coronation and a notable anniversaries in the city’s history this year.
One poignant anniversary being celebrated is the 450-year anniversary of Queen Elizabeth I who chose Canterbury as part of her 40th birthday celebrations.
In September 1573 Queen Elizabeth I visited the city as part of a ‘progress’ with her household, staying here for 15 nights from 3rd September. She had come after visiting Sandwich, where she had been entertained lavishly, including with pageants and military demonstrations; she stopped in Wingham for lunch on the way.
Elizabeth stayed at the royal palace on the site of St Augustine’s Abbey. Royal progresses were a particular feature of Elizabeth’s reign; she made 23 such journeys during the 44 years of her rule, usually in the summer months. Progresses meant that she could engage with her subjects in their localities, and escape the hot months in the city. For the hosts, much planning, preparation and expense were required.
Archbishop of Canterbury, Matthew Parker welcomed the Queen. She entered the Cathedral under a canopy borne by four of her knights to attend Evensong and returned to the Cathedral for services on the two Sundays during her stay.
Written by Cressida Williams. First published in the Canterbury Cathedral Chronicle 2023. Copyright ©On 7th September, the Queen’s 40th birthday, Parker hosted the Queen at a banquet at his palace in the precincts, which he refurbished at great expense during the 1560s. Elizabeth sat in St Augustine’s Throne, which now stands in the Trinity Chapel; it was moved from the Cathedral for the occasion and draped with golden cloths. The banquet was attended by ambassadors from France, the Mayor and Aldermen of the city, and the nobles of the county.
As was usual, the various hosts presented the Queen with gifts. Parker gave her a horse and a golden salt cellar containing money. The City of Canterbury gave her £30 in money, and also gave money to courtiers and officers, including musicians and the jester. The civic records also show that much was spent on tidying up the streets and buildings in the city. The Cathedral presented the Queen with a silk purse containing £30 in gold and gave over £21 to members of her entourage. Expenses incurred by the Cathedral amounted to over £155. This included costs for entertainment and also outlay on rich fabrics, used presumably for vestments, canopies and curtains.
To use words taken from this poster depicting the 1573 visit, history lingers here in Canterbury. A little bit of imagination is needed to bring it to life.
Elizabethan Canterbury: Talk, Tour and Afternoon tea. Thursday 7th September
Join Canterbury Cathedral to mark 450 years since Queen Elizabeth I celebrated her birthday here at Canterbury Cathedral on 7 September 1573.
Enjoy a display from the unique collections of the Cathedral Archives and Library and a talk about the royal visit. We will finish with a Tudorinspired Full Afternoon Tea in the Refectory Restaurant.
The date of 1573 is painted on ‘Queen Elizabeth’s Guest Chamber’, now Café Nero on the High Street. This building was formerly the Crown Inn, and has notable interiors; the Queen did not stay there, but it has been suggested that she entertained guests there.
If you haven’t had a visit through Northgate lately, let’s tempt you to take a wander.
The picturesque street in the shadow of historic King’s School and part of the King’s Mile is the place to go if you need some serious self-care.
The Northgate Wellness Clinic has been supporting the city with alternative and complementary therapies for 25 years, and help clients approach health care from a less invasive and more holistic perspective.
Focusing on both physical and mental health, their services include reflexology and chiropractic, hypnotherapy, thought field therapy, and emotional freedom techniques. They also specialise in women’s health care with hormonal and fertility treatments.
And the Clinic is not alone; Northgate is building a reputation for its holistic health services, with both The Natural Order and The Standing Tree Clinic providing acupuncture, cupping, and physiotherapy. There are also plenty of places for a glow-up. Award-wining hair and beauty services are available at The Chair, while bespoke styling is par the course at Oliveira. Build your tan at The Sun House, and there are three barber shops to keep the chaps looking dapper.
Northgate is full of unique independent stores and tasty treats. This year marks the 20th anniversary for Madame Oiseau Fine Chocolates and her beautiful handmade sweet treats, and Dice and Destiny is the place to go for the latest RPG games and instore gaming sessions. If you need a little sparkle in your life, make an appointment at Atelier Bonbon’s artisan jewellery studio.
Foodies head to Tamago for Japanese soul food, A La Turka for Turkish dishes, Posillipo for authentic Italian delicacies, Saint Smokey’s BBQ with a Caribbean twist, The Thomas Tallis for outstanding real ales, and for drinks, brunch, burgers and big nights out it has to be the historic Penny Theatre. And the frequent queues out of the door at Fringe + Ginge should be an indication of how good the coffee scene is in the quarter. It even got a write up in The Observer Food Monthly!
A buzzing mini-quarter that’s putting health, wellness and damn fine coffee first for shoppers.
Explore the Cathedral Quarter, meander along the cobbled streets of Burgate and discover Canterbury’s finest selection of independent specialist shops, bars and restaurants.
Experience highly skilled craftsmen creating handmade pottery or bespoke jewellery, find quirky shops with a fantastic selection of beautiful cards, gifts and homeware. Eat out and enjoy fair trade, plant based food, locally produced Kent wines or treat yourself to a delicious wood-fired pizza.
Don’t miss the best that Canterbury has to offer, visit the Cathedral Quarter to shop local and shop independent.
Follow us on instagram @cathedralquartercanterbury
Canterbury is world famous for its long and rich history of archbishops, kings and coronations.
The City’s royal connections go back at least as far as St Augustine in 597, with Canterbury gaining primacy as the Head of the Church of England during the Reformation.
This conferred the privilege of crowning the kings and queens of England upon the Archbishop of Canterbury – a convention that continues right up to Justin Welby, the current Archbishop, who officiated at the Coronation of Kings Charles III at Westminster Abbey on Saturday 6th May.
In 2023, Girlings Solicitors recognise the marriage of continuity and change that embody the coronation. Tracing our roots back to 1881, and now with offices in Canterbury, Ashford, and Herne Bay, we balance a strong history and heritage while responding to the evolving needs of our clients. Moreover, this year Girlings witnessed a change in its own leadership in the form of Lesley Rushton – who became the first female Managing Partner in the Firm’s history.
Thinking of the wider business community, history also teaches us of the positive economic impact that such national celebrations can have, especially for the hospitality sector. For Canterbury, with its wide array of bars, hotels, restaurants and cafés, the coronation weekend is expected to provide a substantial boost.
Similarly, and reflecting Canterbury’s relatively small size as a city, the official coronation celebrations, which revolve around street parties and other events over the weekend, should have a disproportionately positive cultural effect – bringing people together and bolstering friendships in what is already a close-knit community. Canterbury welcomes you all – visitors, tourists and workers.
Amid these mixtures of tradition and change, Girlings Solicitors restates its long-standing commitment to the local area and welcomes the opportunities of new leadership. We are thrilled to be supporting businesses in the City through our close work with Canterbury BID as we move into a new royal era.
Served in our 3 AA Rosette restaurant, join us for an exclusive four-course menu and paired wine flight, presented by a selection of the world’s leading boutique wineries.
Old World vs. New World £60
Wednesday 19th April
Off the Beaten Track £60
Wednesday 3rd May
Simpsons’ Wine Estate £60
Wednesday 7th June
Easter £35 | £47 with Champagne
7th - 10th April
Coronation £55 with Champagne
Saturday 6th May
Graduation £35 | £47 with Champagne
17th - 21st July
Wednesday 7th June, Thursday 17th August & Thursday 12th October
An exclusive experience with a locally renowned English sparkling wine producer. Includes a vineyard & estate tour, afternoon-tea, four-course dinner with presented matched wines, overnight stay & breakfast.
From £383 per person
June 2023 marks the 10-year anniversary of Oscar & Bentleys, an independent, 100% gluten free bistro in the heart of the city.
The business is run by sisters Sarah Wren and Katherine Durio, who came up with the idea at Katherine’s kitchen table in 2012.
Katherine recalls: “Sarah said ‘let’s open a restaurant’. I said ‘Ok, as long as it’s 100% gluten free’. Our mother is coeliac, and we were getting tired of her getting poisoned in restaurants!”
The pair got stuck into to learning everything they needed to know about the restaurant business, crafting the brand, researching venues and trying the all-important recipes for the menu.
Early on Sarah had her heart set on the site of the former Ben Johnson steakhouse and pub, a beautiful listed building in Guildhall Street. Or, as the sisters call it, ‘a cranky quirky old building without a single straight line!’.
On 3rd Jan 2013, they got they keys to their new property and after six months of hard graft to renovate, the restaurant opened. Sarah is Managing Director and Katherine is Creative Director, but they invariably do a bit of everything to ensure the business runs smoothly.
10 years
Katherine said: “In every way, this is a family business. The name is for our two dogs, our mum used to do laundry, our aunts have been involved at different times. It is a group effort.
“Our ethos is that our customers will be happy if our staff are happy. The people who work for us have to fit in with our quirky little team in our quirky building, and it’s imperative we look after each other. They are not just a payroll number, they are part of the business.”
If gluten free conjures up images of flimsy shop-bought bread, diners can rest assured that Oscar & Bentleys provides high-quality, freshly prepared, locally sourced dishes that will delight all tastebuds.
Katherine explained: “When opened we were the only 100% gluten free restaurant in country. Many chains offer gluten free options, but it’s rarely 100% and cross contamination is a huge issue. We’ve learnt a lot about the entire allergen world in the last decade.
“This is why we make everything in house from scratch; from the gravy to the salsa, nothing is pre-made. We also work with 3 different Kent vineyards, a local gluten-free beer supplier, local farmers to reduce food miles, and we get our spirits from The Foundry.
The team is also focused on reducing food miles and helping Canterbury towards the goal of net zero emissions.
Sarah said: “One of things that has been really important to our success is the business community. You can feel very alone running an independent business but if you are struggling, remember that the more we all talk and support each other, the better we’ll come through it.”
Katherine added: “The local business networking groups are wonderful, there are places you can volunteer, you can get involved with the BID, with Westgate Hall. Getting together to share experiences helps you remember that the current climate isn’t personal.”
Oscar & Bentleys will mark their 10th anniversary on 29th June with a whole week of celebrations and offers planned, and a refresh of the restaurant’s exterior is also on the way soon.
Katherine said: “To anyone living and working in Canterbury – we need you to come out and celebrate your local businesses.
“You have more power than you realise, and where you put your pound matters. We will give you a wonderful experience, hopefully for another 10 years at least!”
Oscar & Bentleys 10 Guildhall Street, Canterbury 01227 454544
➜ www.oscar-bentleys.co.uk
Book early for tables for their 10th anniversary 29th June 2023.
Also celebrating big anniversaries in 2023
Madame Oiseau - 20 years
Refectory Kitchen - 20 years
Fenwick - 20 years
Café Des Amis - 35 years
Canterbury Pottery - 60 years
And Happy first birthday to newbie business herd.
“You don’t have to be gluten-free to enjoy our bistro!”
As well as being a beautiful city, Canterbury is also a place with deep literary connections, some of which span centuries. From being the birthplace of Christopher Marlowe and Aphra Behn to famously featuring in Geoffrey Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales, Canterbury has been a beacon of creativity and talent for hundreds of years.
Keeping this literary heritage alive, the city has a great variety of bookshops for residents and visitors alike. So, in no particular order, here’s Instagram’s The Book Boy’s guide to Canterbury’s best bookshops.
1. Chaucer Books
The number one stop for vintage beauties. This labyrinthine bookshop is filled to the brim with stunning collector’s editions, leather-bound tomes and books that you simply won’t find anywhere else.
2. The Crooked House (also known as the Catching Lives Charity Bookshop)
Set in the amazing architecture of what many locals call the crooked/ bulging house (dating all the way back to the 1600s!), this wonderful charity bookshop offers a range of second-hand titles across two floors.
3. Burgate Books
Another excellent charity bookshop that always has a wonderful selection, Burgate Books covers two floors and has arguably the largest second-hand selection in the city with over 5,000 titles in stock at any one time.
4.
Another shop for those who enjoy some guilt-free book buying, Oxfam bookshop carries an excellent selection of second-hand titles – but there are also specialist sections for music and foreign-language titles.
5. Waterstones Canterbury
Standing pride of place near the centre of Canterbury’s main shopping district, Waterstones Canterbury is so much more than your average bookshop. Three floors filled with new editions, a wonderful café, monthly author events – it is the perfect place to treat yourself to a new release, cosy up with a coffee and let your worries unwind.
The Book Boy @thebookboy
Edited feature taken from the Visit Canterbury website.
The Crooked House (Catching Lives book shop on Palace Street) inspired Charles Dickens for the book David Copperfield.
W.Somerset Maugham’s days at The King’s School in 1915 feature in his novel Of Human Bondage where Canterbury is rebooted as Tercanbury.
Rupert Bear’s adventures were created by Canterbury native Mary Tourtel in 1920 who studied at art school here.
Oxfam Books
Cricket has a unique ability to connect communities, improve lives and transcend generations, reaching beyond a diverse range of social boundaries. Kent Cricket Community Trust (KCCT) delivers a range of programmes that support the local community, which include events and projects that address well-being and social
50 Overs Programme – Cricket and Tea events & Walking Cricket for those who are 50 and over, looking to get active, try a slow paced activity and make new social connections.
First Change Programme- Supporting local refugee and unaccompanied asylumseeking communities, to play, watch and access cricket coaching courses.
For further information on events taking place this Summer, scan the QR code
No.35 is a unique and trendy restaurant, located in Canterbury St Margaret’s Street.
Our dishes are homemade and freshly prepared to order. We only use local family run and independent suppliers for our ingredients. By supporting us you are also supporting many other like minded business.
We also bring you delicious cakes, cocktails, smoothies and milkshakes. Why not dine with us in our secret courtyard garden this summer, often described as a ‘hidden gem’.
We look forward to seeing you soon
No.35 Café – Restaurant 35 St Margaret’s Street, CT1 2TG no.35canterbury@gmail.com | no35canterbury.co.uk | 01227 637300
Enjoy a 90-minute journey through Canterbury’s fascinating past with an entertaining, expert Guide on the Official Canterbury City Guided Tour. You’ll discover hidden sights and curious facts as centuries of history and culture are brought to life whilst you explore the medieval lanes and historic Cathedral Precincts.
Tours operate daily, whatever the weather! (except Christmas Day). Suitable for all ages. Well-behaved dogs welcome. Private groups are welcome by appointment.
Book online at: www.canterburyguidedtours.com
Contact guides@canterburytouristguides.co.uk | 01227 459779 /CanterburyTouristGuidesltd/ /canterburyguidedtours/
The King’s Mile, an area steeped in history, is just a step away from the busy high street. You’ll nd independent shops and traditional traders o ering 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 o ers an extraordinary range of food and drink, from locally produced ales in traditional pubs to ne 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.
Canterbury is a city packed with great night-time venues.
There’s so much going on at night, so whether you love a restaurant visit, theatre trip, cocktails with friends, a night in a cosy local pub, a film and popcorn, or an escape to a city centre hotel, the Canterbury Gift Card has it all covered….from one end of the city to the other!
Launched and led by Canterbury BID, the Canterbury Night Out Gift Card is designed to drive footfall to the city’s evening and night-time businesses. It is an extension of the city’s popular Canterbury Gift Card which already counts Hampton by Hilton, Socialite, Gulbenkian Theatre, Nando’s, Cosy Club, herd. Club Chemistry, The Falstaff, Tokyo Team Rooms, The Pound, ABode and The Marlowe Theatre among some of the businesses where the Night Out Gift Card can be spent.
The Night Out Gift Card is the perfect way to treat your friends, family and team members as the drinks are officially on you!
Find out more at: canterbury.nightoutgiftcards.com
where will you spend yours?
40+ local bars, restaurants, venues & hotels
FANTASTIC FOOD, DELICIOUS DRINKS AND INDEPENDENT RETAILERS IN THE HEART OF WHITSTABLE HARBOUR
SOUTH QUAY SHED, WHITSTABLE
Make a pilgrimage over to Canterbury on Saturday 1 July and enjoy a day of medieval mayhem at the 8th Medieval Pageant and Family Trail. This year’s theme is medieval animals!
A colourful parade of pilgrims will be entering the city through the Westgate Towers at 11am, featuring knights on horseback, historical characters, re-enactment groups, music, medieval animals and our three giants (Henry II, Queen Eleanor and Thomas Becket). They will parade through the city centre accompanied by fanfares and medieval music.
Then it’s time to explore medieval Canterbury. With the choice of visiting 17+ locations across the city taking part in the family trail. Trail locations include free entry to St Augustine’s Abbey, the restored medieval Franciscan Gardens, The Westgate Towers and a beautiful trail through Canterbury Christ Church Campus to hunt down a medieval dragon.
Each venue will be welcoming visitors with a range of fun activities. Visit at least 5 locations and you can get a free giant chocolate coin at the end of your pilgrimage. In addition to the trail, you can enjoy outdoor theatre performances, visit the Knight fight club, a medieval animal hunt, pottery making, medieval music and more!
The event is organised by Canterbury Business Improvement District and attracts thousands of spectators each year.
Find out more here:
➜ canterburymedievalpageant.co.uk
The King’s Hall is a beautiful Edwardian concert hall in Herne Bay, hosting a range of entertainment shows and events for all ages.
DO YOU BELIEVE IN GHOSTS?
SATURDAY 27 MAY
AFTERNOON TEA DANCE
MONDAY 29 MAY
THE MAGIC OF MOTOWN
SUNDAY 2 JULY
OLD TIME SAILORS
FRIDAY 14 JULY
80S LIVE
SATURDAY 12 AUGUST
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THE SPOOKY MEN’S CHORALE DISCO FOR GROWN UPS
WEDNESDAY 23 AUGUST
FRIDAY 25 AUGUST
THE MAGIC OF THE BEATLES
FRIDAY 1 SEPTEMBER
KING’S HALL
For more information contact thekingshall@canterbury.gov.uk or visit thekingshall.com
One of Canterbury’s biggest assets is its green spaces. The city is surrounded by beautiful and spacious outdoor parks, which means that you’re never more than 5 minutes away from somewhere to sit and soak up the summer season.
Canterbury Sculpture Trail
Explore the city and experience public art, parks and gardens and the riverside. Enjoy watching the world go by on one of the sculptural seats with park or river views.
Solly’s Orchard
This beautiful park hugs the River Stour and is a great place for people watching. Across the river is the site of Canterbury’s old Paper Mill. While the mill is long gone, The Miller’s Arms pub can be found next to the site of the old mill’s water wheel, ideal for a summer spritzer or cold beer.
The Westgate Gardens
The park and historical Tower House and very pretty and well-maintained with the clear chalk waters of the river Stour running through it. While there visit the 200-yearold Oriental Plane tree (we bet you can’t get your arms all the way around it!). Follow the river and discover the beautiful Hambrook marshes.
Dane John Gardens
This beautiful historic park within Canterbury city’s walls dates back to 1551, and includes a mound which historical records prove was there in the first century AD. Stroll along the city walls which border one side of the gardens and wander up to the top of the mound for an excellent view of the city. The Don Juan café is on hand if you need a caffeine fix too.
If you want to discover more of Canterbury’s fascinating history –make sure to book to one of the city’s fantastic guided tours.
The Canterbury Tour Guides offer daily outings starting from the Buttermarket at 11am and 2pm. The 90-minute guided walking tour takes you through the city’s centre historic streets and the cathedral precincts, with entertaining guides letting you in on all the best kept secrets. And if you fancy something a little more spooky – look no further than The Canterbury Ghost Tours with Kent’s Premier Award-winning ghost hunter!
Enjoy a calm and peaceful trip along Canterbury’s beautiful waterways steered by a friendly and knowledgeable tour guide who will explain the buildings steeped in history as you float by. This is perfect for visitors and residents who want to show off their beautiful city to friends and relatives.
Canterbury Punting – starting from Water Lane (off Stour Street)
Historic River Tours – starting from The Kings Bridge (St Peter’s Street)
Westgate Punts – starting from Westgate Grove (by Westgate Towers)
Coming this September! – Festival of the Stour. A celebration of Canterbury’s amazing chalk river! Keep checking Visit Canterbury for updates.
Canterbury district is served by Stagecoach South East buses, based at Canterbury City Centre in St George’s Lane CT1 2SY.
Check times, fares and more at stagecoachbus.com or download the Stagecoach Bus App
You can park for £4 per day, per car with up to six passengers via the two following sites:
• New Dover Rd CT1 3EJ
• Wincheap, Ten Perch Rd, CT1 3TY
For more details visit canterbury.gov.uk/parkandride or call 01227 862 000
See our map opposite to locate car parks. Here are a few insider tips to help you find cheaper parking spots:
If you plan to visit Canterbury through its original medieval gateway in the St Dunstan’s area, park at Station Road West for £1.80 per hour and walk through the Westgate Towers like visitors have done for centuries.
For those wishing to start their visit with a trip to the creative quarter on The King’s Mile you will find parking at £2.50 per hour at Northgate Car Park and a lovely walk past some of our finest independent retailers.
And finally, why not park right next to Canterbury Castle and enjoy a walk through the Castle Quarter with plenty of shops to visit and quick access to some of our premium retailers – Castle Street Multistorey charges £1.80 per hour.
For further details visit canterburygov.uk/parking or call the Visitor Information Centre on 01227 862 162
Castle Row: £2.50
1 2
Castle Street Multi-Storey: £1.80
Toddler’s Cove: £1.70
3 4
Station Road West: £1.80
North Lane: £2.50
Pound Lane: £2.50
Miller’s Field: £2.50
9
St Radigund’s: £2.50
Northgate: £2.50
Queningate: £3.50
Longport: £2.50
Holman’s Meadow: £1.80
Whitefriars Multi-Storey: £2.50
Watling Street: £3.50
5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14
300 acre parkland campus overlooking the historic city of Canterbury
A dedicated team with over 20 years experience
On-site market, bars, bistros, sports facilities, Wi-Fi and free parking
Bed and breakfast options
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Good links to Europe, London and local towns and attractions.
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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.
