
St Margaret's Street Canterbury
A historic gem with a magnificent cathedral, charming medieval streets, and a vibrant riverside. Perfect for history buffs and leisurely explorers.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration

St Margaret's Street Canterbury
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic gem with a magnificent cathedral, charming medieval streets, and a vibrant riverside. Perfect for history buffs and leisurely explorers.
"Canterbury is a city steeped in history, with its stunning Cathedral and charming streets offering a delightful escape."

🚶♀️ Stroll & Discover
Wander down St. Margaret's Street and its side alleys to find unique shops and cafes. :camerawithflash: Capture the historic architecture!
📚 Bookworm's Paradise
Don't miss The Crooked Bookshop for a unique browsing experience. :books: Great for finding rare and interesting reads.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Canterbury Cathedral
Near St. Margaret's Street
A magnificent Gothic masterpiece, steeped in history and architectural grandeur. A must-see for any visitor.

The Crooked Bookshop
St. Margaret's Street
A charming, independent bookshop with a unique, leaning facade. Perfect for book lovers seeking literary treasures.

Westgate Gardens
Westgate Towers, near St. Margaret's Street
Serene gardens along the River Stour, ideal for a peaceful picnic or a leisurely stroll. Offers beautiful city views.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Walkability
Book Ahead for Popular Spots
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Stroll & Discover
Wander down St. Margaret's Street and its side alleys to find unique shops and cafes. :camerawithflash: Capture the historic architecture!
📚 Bookworm's Paradise
Don't miss The Crooked Bookshop for a unique browsing experience. :books: Great for finding rare and interesting reads.
☕️ Coffee & Bites
Numerous cafes like Fringe + Ginge offer great coffee. :coffee: Refectory Kitchen is a popular lunch spot.
🎄 Festive Charm
Visit during the Christmas season for the 'Merry Brickmas' village. :gift: A truly magical experience!
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Stroll & Discover
Wander down St. Margaret's Street and its side alleys to find unique shops and cafes. :camerawithflash: Capture the historic architecture!
📚 Bookworm's Paradise
Don't miss The Crooked Bookshop for a unique browsing experience. :books: Great for finding rare and interesting reads.
☕️ Coffee & Bites
Numerous cafes like Fringe + Ginge offer great coffee. :coffee: Refectory Kitchen is a popular lunch spot.
🎄 Festive Charm
Visit during the Christmas season for the 'Merry Brickmas' village. :gift: A truly magical experience!
🗺️ Easy to Navigate
Canterbury is very walkable. :athletic_shoe: Most attractions are close to St. Margaret's Street.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Canterbury's rich history, particularly the magnificent Cathedral, and the charming atmosphere of its medieval streets. The city's walkability and the unique character of St. Margaret's Street are frequently highlighted as positives. Some find the Cathedral entry fee a bit steep, and occasional comments mention crowds during peak times.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The easiest way is by train from London St Pancras International to Canterbury West, which takes about 51 minutes. From Canterbury West station, St. Margaret's Street is a pleasant 10-15 minute walk through the city center.
Yes, Canterbury is very walkable. St. Margaret's Street and most major attractions are within a 15-20 minute walk from both Canterbury West and Canterbury East stations.
There are several car parks in Canterbury, including the multi-storey car park at Whitefriars Shopping Centre, which is a short walk from St. Margaret's Street. Parking can be expensive, so the train is often recommended.
Canterbury has a bus station located near the city centre, with services connecting to surrounding towns and cities. From the bus station, it's a short walk to St. Margaret's Street.
St. Margaret's Street is centrally located and well-signposted within Canterbury's historic core. It's a main thoroughfare, making it easy to find once you are in the city centre.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
St. Margaret's Street itself is a public street and is free to access. However, attractions along or near the street, such as Canterbury Cathedral, will require tickets for entry.
Ticket prices for Canterbury Cathedral vary for adults, concessions, and children. It's advisable to check the official Canterbury Cathedral website for the most up-to-date pricing and to book in advance.
Yes, Westgate Gardens offers a beautiful free space for relaxation and picnics. Wandering through the historic streets and admiring the architecture is also free.
Yes, booking Canterbury Cathedral tickets online is highly recommended to secure your preferred time slot and avoid queues.
Opening hours for shops on St. Margaret's Street vary. Most shops are typically open from around 9/10 AM to 5/6 PM, with some cafes and restaurants having later hours. It's best to check individual shop websites for specific times.
🎫 📍 Onsite Experience
St. Margaret's Street is home to charming independent shops like The Crooked Bookshop, cafes, and is close to major attractions like Canterbury Cathedral and Westgate Gardens.
Yes, punting tours operate on the River Stour, often departing from near Westgate Gardens, which is a short walk from St. Margaret's Street.
Yes, guided walking tours are available, often starting from the city centre. The Canterbury Tours offer evening tours from Alberrys on St. Margaret's Street.
Allow ample time to explore the vast interior and exterior of Canterbury Cathedral. Consider joining a guided tour within the cathedral for deeper insights into its history.
Absolutely! Canterbury is a popular day trip from London, easily accessible by train in just over an hour, offering a rich historical and cultural experience.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
St. Margaret's Street and its vicinity offer various dining options. Refectory Kitchen is a popular choice for lunch, and you can also find cafes like Fringe + Ginge for lighter fare.
Yes, several cafes serve excellent coffee. Fringe + Ginge Coffee Shop is frequently recommended, and The Snuggery Canterbury is another great option.
Besides Refectory Kitchen, consider Old Weavers House for a historic dining experience. Posillipo offers Italian cuisine, and Plan Burrito is a unique option on St. Margaret's Street.
Yes, Canterbury has traditional pubs. The Parrot Pub is mentioned as a place to grab a pint, offering a classic pub atmosphere.
Many cafes and restaurants in Canterbury offer vegetarian and vegan options. It's always a good idea to check menus online or ask staff when dining.
📸 📸 Photography
The Crooked Bookshop with its unique facade is a prime photo opportunity. The historic architecture along the street and views towards Canterbury Cathedral are also highly photogenic.
For stunning exterior shots, try framing the cathedral from the city walls, Westgate Gardens, or from various viewpoints within the cathedral grounds itself.
Yes, Canterbury is very photogenic. The mix of medieval architecture, the river, and the cathedral provides endless opportunities for great shots.
Late afternoon, during the 'golden hour,' offers beautiful light for capturing the historic buildings. Early mornings can also be good for fewer crowds and soft light.
Generally, photography is allowed in public areas. Inside Canterbury Cathedral, there may be specific rules regarding flash photography or filming, so it's best to check on-site signage.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While Canterbury Cathedral is awe-inspiring, consider focusing on specific areas that might capture younger imaginations, like the crypt or stories of knights and saints. Many cafes offer child-friendly menus. The Christmas Market during the festive season is particularly magical for families, with its festive stalls and atmosphere.
📚 Book Lovers & History Buffs
Consider delving into the history of The Canterbury Tales by Geoffrey Chaucer, which is intrinsically linked to the city. While the original tales are in Middle English, understanding their context adds depth to your exploration. Guided historical walking tours can also provide fascinating insights into Canterbury's rich past.
🚶 Day-Trippers from London
Plan your itinerary to maximize your time. Start with the Cathedral, then explore the shops and cafes on St. Margaret's Street, and finish with a relaxing punt or a walk in Westgate Gardens. Many visitors find it a refreshing escape from the city bustle.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Canterbury Cathedral
Inside, take time to appreciate the detailed stonework, the crypt, and the cloisters. Audio guides are available and highly recommended for a deeper understanding of the cathedral's rich history and significance. Many visitors find the atmosphere profoundly moving and inspiring.
Pro-tip: Consider attending an Evensong service for a truly atmospheric experience, even if you're not religious. The choral music echoing through the ancient stone is unforgettable. Remember to check the cathedral's website for opening times and any special events or services.
The Charm of St. Margaret's Street
Beyond the bookshop, the street invites leisurely exploration. You'll find a variety of shops selling gifts, crafts, and local produce. During the festive season, St. Margaret's Street transforms with decorations and often hosts events like the 'Merry Brickmas' Christmas Village at the Hampton by Hilton, adding a magical touch to your visit.
This street is also a hub for local life, with places like Refectory Kitchen serving popular lunches and Plan Burrito offering a unique culinary stop. It’s the perfect place to soak in the local atmosphere and discover treasures away from the main tourist crowds.
Riverside Relaxation: Westgate Gardens & Punting
For a more active experience, punting on the River Stour is a quintessential Canterbury activity. Companies like Canterbury Punting Company offer guided tours where you can glide along the river, taking in the city's historic architecture from a unique perspective. It's a relaxing way to see parts of the city you might otherwise miss.
Key takeaway: Combine a peaceful walk through Westgate Gardens with a charming punting trip for a well-rounded riverside experience. It’s a refreshing contrast to the grandeur of the cathedral and the bustle of the high street.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit