insideKENT Magazine Issue 25 - April 2014 | Page 98

TOWNSPOTLIGHT
S P O T L I G H T

O N

CANTERBURY

If you really want to escape from the pressures of modern life, the historical English cathedral city
of Canterbury contains all the beauty that you would expect of east Kent and so much more.
Brimming with culture and creativity, this vibrant city combines notable historic influences with
meandering rivers, fine restaurants, exceptional shopping and a pulsating nightlife, to strike the
perfect balance between relaxation and recreation.

© Tim Stubbings

history in brief

things to see and do

Canterbury's skyline is dominated by the stunning
cathedral, dating back to the 11th century.
However, the cathedral is only part of the story;
the castle, ancient ruins of St Augustine's Abbey
and St Martin's Church are all reminders of the
city's history, heritage and culture too.
Lying on the River Stour, Canterbury was
originally an Iron Age settlement, before being
taken over by the Roman conquerors and
renamed Durovernum Cantiacocum in the 1st
century AD. In the 3rd century, the Romans
erected a city wall – a structure that was later
rebuilt in the 14th century and remains today.
After the Roman civilisation declined in the
4th century, the city became a Jutish settlement
and in doing so, gained its English name
'Canterbury' – a handle derived from the old
English word Cantwareburh, meaning 'Kent
people's stronghold'.
In 597 AD the Pope sent St Augustine to
Kent, where he built an abbey outside the walls
of the old Roman town. In 602 he rededicated a
deserted Roman church in Canterbury and in
603 Canterbury was chosen to be the seat of
the first archbishop, a position that now heads
the Church of England.
It was during the medieval era that Canterbury
later became a place of pilgrimage – more so
after Archbishop Thomas Becket was murdered
in the cathedral in 1170, and pilgrims worldwide
travelled to visit his shrine.
This pilgrimage provided the theme
for Geoffrey Chaucer's 14th-century literary
classic, The Canterbury Tales. The literary heritage
continued with the birth of the playwright
Christopher Marlowe in the city in the 16th century
.
T
oday, the town continues to flourish, playing
host to four universities; luxury hotels and
restaurants; extensive shopping; and a vibrant,
sought-after nightlife. Unique indeed, whatever
the discerning visitor seeks, they will find it in
Canterbury.

Howletts Wild Animal Park – Set in over 100
acres of beautiful ancient parkland, the Aspinall
Foundation's Howletts Wild Animal Park combines
conservation and fun for the whole family.
Eastbridge Hospital – Eastbridge Hospital was
founded following the murder of St Thomas
Becket as accommodation for poor pilgrims
visiting his tomb.
Canterbury's Ghost Tours – An entertaining
blend of history, humour and haunting amongst
the old city, Canterbury's Ghost Tours take you
on a 75-minute spooky journey of the city.
Canterbury Heritage Museum – From millions
of years ago to the present day, here you can
discover Canterbury's colourful history via
interactive displays and fascinating memorabilia.
Canterbury Punting Co – Escape the busy
pavements and lie back to capture the magic of
Canterbury via one of the city's famous river tours.
Canterbury Norman Castle – One of the three
original royal castles in Kent, Canterbury's Norman
build offers interpretation panels, a tactile model
of the castle (circa 1200 AD) and elevated viewing
areas.
Goodnestone Gardens – Set in 14 acres with
a walled garden, woodland and formal area, it's
little wonder Goodnestone has been awarded
two stars in The Good Garden Guide. Visit the
on-site tearoom for delicious homemade cakes
too.
Canterbury Cathedral – The motherchurch of
the Anglican Communion and seat of the
Archbishop, a trip to Canterbury wouldn't be
complete without a visit to the stunning cathedral. )5