Two days around the historic city of Canterbury and seaside town of Whitstable by train
Discover Canterbury, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most-visited cities in the UK, before travelling to the Kentish coast to the seaside town of Whitstable. This varied itinerary introduces you to some great sites and places, taking you from city to seaside and heritage to harbour.
Itinerary Summary
1 Morning
Historic Canterbury
Begin your trip in the historic cathedral city of Canterbury, which as the name suggests, is home to Canterbury Cathedral. This was one of the most important centres of pilgrimage in Medieval England as it’s the home of Thomas Becket’s shrine. Be sure to keep an eye out for open garden days throughout the year for a private tour of the beautifully kept gardens and precincts of the cathedral grounds. A must-see for all garden lovers. The cathedral quarter is packed with cafés and restaurants so there is plenty of choice when it comes to stopping for lunch or a quick coffee break.
Explore Canterbury
1 Afternoon
Canterbury Fudge Kitchen
After lunch, stop off at the Fudge Kitchen before exploring the rest of the city. Here you can learn how to make your own fudge and build a box to take home with you! Wander through the picturesque side streets of the city to The Westgate Gardens, situated along the River Stour and near the historic West Gate of the city. Borders of vibrant flowers decorate the manicured lawns, changing with the seasons. Another iconic garden of Canterbury is The Dane John Gardens, located at the opposite end to the Westgate gardens. Walk along the ancient city walls which border the outer side or through the avenue of lime trees towards the beautiful fountain featured in the centre of the park. This is also where the annual Canterbury Food Festival is held in September, packed with delicious food and drink from all over the county.
Fudge Kitchen
1 Dinner
The Shakespeare Wine Bar
Before heading to the hotel, enjoy a glass of wine (or three!) at The Shakespeare Wine Bar. Nestled in the charming ‘Buttermarket’ and overlooking the cathedral, this is the perfect place to stop and watch the world go by.
The Shakespeare, Canterbury
1 Overnight
Stay at the ABode Canterbury
At the end of the day head over to ABode Canterbury, just minutes from the cathedral and at the heart of the city’s vibrant restaurants and bars. You will be spoilt for choice when it comes to dinner plans.
ABode Canterbury
2 Breakfast
Breakfast at The Goods Shed
Just before you leave Canterbury, head over to The Goods Shed for a ‘build your own breakfast’ of delicious local food. The restaurant overlooks the bustling daily market packed with seasonal vegetables, fresh fish and seafood, a butchery, and a bakery complete with freshly baked bread! After breakfast make your way to Canterbury East train station to catch a Southeastern train to Whitstable. Alternatively, you can also hire bikes and cycle to Whitstable. The famous Crab and Winkle cycle route is approximately 17.5km on traffic free cycle paths.
The Goods Shed
2 Afternoon
An afternoon in Whitstable
Once you have arrived at Whitstable, head to the Harbour Market. Situated right beside the waterfront, this market is a collection of artisan traders showcasing amazing locally-crafted food and drink, handmade goods, fine art and more. Whitstable is most widely known for its oysters and the annual Whitstable Oyster Festival which normally takes place during the summer months. If you are visiting at this time, this is a must-do! If you miss the festival, be sure to visit The Whitstable Oyster Company to try some of the world famous Whitstable Oysters, served straight from the sea bed.
Harbour Market Whitstable
2 Dinner
Dinner at Samphire
Finish your trip with some of the tastiest local food at the independent bistro, Samphire. The menu is a combination of seasonal produce from local farms, allotments, fishermen and foragers, in a cosy and stylish setting in the heart of Whitstable.
