
St Martin's Church
The oldest church in continuous use in the English-speaking world, offering a profound step back in time.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful and less crowded

St Martin's Church
Best Time
Peaceful and less crowded

Highlights
Must-see attractions
The oldest church in continuous use in the English-speaking world, offering a profound step back in time.
"History speaks from its walls! A peaceful and spiritually fulfilling location."

🎯 Find the Gates
The entrance gates can be a bit tricky to find, adding to the sense of discovery. Keep an eye out!
📖 Grab a Guide Sheet
Excellent visitor guides are available, packed with history and significance. Highly recommended!

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Ancient Stones
Interior and exterior
Touch centuries-old stones and see carvings dating back over 300 years. History truly speaks from its walls.

Peaceful Churchyard
Exterior grounds
A serene space with lovely views of Canterbury Cathedral in the distance. Perfect for quiet reflection.

Stepping Back in Time
Interior
Experience the awe of stepping inside a place of worship over 1400 years old. It feels like a journey to the past.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Tranquility
Embrace the History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Find the Gates
The entrance gates can be a bit tricky to find, adding to the sense of discovery. Keep an eye out!
📖 Grab a Guide Sheet
Excellent visitor guides are available, packed with history and significance. Highly recommended!
🕰️ Check Opening Times
Opening hours can vary, so it's wise to check in advance to plan your visit effectively.
🚶♀️ Well-Maintained Paths
The walking areas are well-maintained, making it accessible and safe for visitors of all ages.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Find the Gates
The entrance gates can be a bit tricky to find, adding to the sense of discovery. Keep an eye out!
📖 Grab a Guide Sheet
Excellent visitor guides are available, packed with history and significance. Highly recommended!
🕰️ Check Opening Times
Opening hours can vary, so it's wise to check in advance to plan your visit effectively.
🚶♀️ Well-Maintained Paths
The walking areas are well-maintained, making it accessible and safe for visitors of all ages.
✨ Spiritual Fulfillment
Many visitors find a profound sense of peace and spiritual fulfillment here, even more than at the cathedral.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise St. Martin's Church for its profound historical significance and peaceful atmosphere, often calling it a deeply moving experience. While its remote location and sometimes tricky-to-find entrance are noted, the church's ancient stones and serene churchyard are highlighted as major draws.
"Such a beautiful beautiful old church to visit. It's hidden in Canterbury 's less frequented area, so maybe one or two person walked by, when I visited it. It's so peaceful, the walking area is well maintained so even elderly people can walk there safely. Gates a bit tricky to find but it makes the visit even more interesting."
Hypnorina
"History speaks from its walls! Excellent guide available on arrival, which allows you to walk around the church and gain knowledge on its significance. Volunteer was welcoming and passionate to share on its history. Church yard is peaceful to walk around, with lovely views of the cathedral in the distance. Check opening times in advance to plan your visit."
Simon Brett
"A very interesting church, being the oldest Christian place of worship in continuous use in the country. The guide sheet for visitors is excellently presents, explaining it's history, architecture and artefacts, and their place in the Christian faith and worship."
Nina Coulthard
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
St. Martin's Church is located in a less frequented area of Canterbury, a short walk from the city center. While it's not as central as Canterbury Cathedral, it's accessible on foot. Some visitors mention the gates can be a bit tricky to find, adding to the charm of discovering this historic site. Consider it a peaceful stroll away from the main tourist paths.
While the church itself is a significant landmark, some visitors note that the specific entrance gates can be a bit tricky to locate. This adds to the sense of discovery when you finally find it. Planning your route beforehand can be helpful.
Yes, it's a pleasant walk from Canterbury Cathedral to St. Martin's Church. It's a good way to see more of the historic city and enjoy the surroundings. The walk offers a chance to experience a quieter side of Canterbury.
Many visitors enjoy walking to St. Martin's Church, appreciating the journey through Canterbury's historic streets. It's a good opportunity to explore beyond the main attractions and find this hidden gem.
Information on specific parking near St. Martin's Church is limited, but given its location slightly off the main tourist routes, street parking might be available. However, walking from central Canterbury or using public transport is often recommended for ease.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
St. Martin's Church is generally free to enter, though donations are appreciated. It's the oldest church in continuous use in the English-speaking world, and its accessibility allows many to experience its history.
Opening times for St. Martin's Church can vary, and it's highly recommended to check them in advance before your visit. This ensures you can plan your trip accordingly and make the most of your time there.
There is typically no admission fee to enter St. Martin's Church. Visitors are encouraged to make a donation to help with the upkeep of this historic site.
While St. Martin's Church is a place of worship, it's often open to visitors outside of service times. However, it's always best to confirm the specific opening hours for Sundays, as these can differ from weekdays.
Excellent guide sheets are available on arrival, providing detailed information about the church's history, architecture, and significance. Volunteers may also be present to share their knowledge.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
St. Martin's Church is renowned as the oldest church in the English-speaking world still in continuous use, dating back to the late 6th century. Its ancient stones, historical significance, and peaceful atmosphere make it a truly unique and awe-inspiring place to visit.
Inside, you'll find yourself stepping back over 1400 years. The church has evolved over time, and you can see ancient carvings and signatures etched into the stone, some dating back centuries. It's a tangible connection to the past.
Absolutely! The churchyard is a peaceful and well-maintained area offering lovely views of Canterbury Cathedral in the distance. It's a perfect spot for quiet reflection and to appreciate the serene surroundings.
Yes, the walking areas around St. Martin's Church are well-maintained, making it accessible and safe for elderly visitors to walk around and enjoy the grounds.
It's the oldest Christian place of worship in continuous use in the country, playing a pivotal role in the early spread of Christianity in England. Its history is deeply intertwined with the nation's heritage.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography inside St. Martin's Church is generally permitted for personal use, but it's always a good idea to be respectful of the sacred nature of the site. Avoid flash photography, especially during services.
The exterior of the ancient church, the peaceful churchyard with views of the cathedral, and the intricate details of the ancient stones inside offer fantastic photographic opportunities. Capture the sense of history and tranquility.
Drone usage is typically restricted in historic and religious sites to preserve their sanctity and for safety reasons. It's best to assume drone photography is not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise.
Natural light filters into the church, creating a serene and atmospheric ambiance. The exterior lighting is also pleasant, especially during golden hour, offering beautiful shots of the ancient architecture.
While general photography is allowed, be mindful of any specific signage or requests from church staff. Sharing your photos on social media is a great way to inspire others to visit!
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider bringing along the guide sheets to make the visit more interactive. You can turn it into a treasure hunt for historical facts! The peaceful atmosphere also means it's a good place for children to practice quiet contemplation. It's a less overwhelming experience than larger cathedrals, making it more manageable for families.
🏛️ History Buffs & Pilgrims
Take your time to study the ancient carvings and signatures etched into the stone, and delve into the detailed information provided by the guide sheets. Many visitors find a profound sense of connection and spiritual fulfillment here, often describing it as a highlight of their trip to Canterbury. It offers a unique perspective on the early development of Christianity in Britain.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Seekers of Peace
Many solo visitors have noted feeling a deep sense of peace and spiritual fulfillment here, often finding it more impactful than larger, more tourist-heavy sites. It’s a place to connect with yourself and the profound history that surrounds you.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Journey Through Time: The History of St. Martin's Church
The church has undergone numerous transformations and additions over the centuries, reflecting different architectural styles and periods. Visitors can still see evidence of its ancient past, including carvings and signatures etched into the stone that date back hundreds of years. Walking through its interior is like stepping back in time, offering a tangible connection to over 1400 years of history and worship.
Its significance extends beyond its age; St. Martin's played a crucial role in the early Christianization of England. The guide sheets available on-site provide an excellent overview of its architectural evolution, its religious importance, and the artifacts housed within. It's a place that truly allows you to feel history.
Experiencing the Serenity: Visiting St. Martin's Church
The church's location, slightly off the beaten path, contributes to its tranquil atmosphere. It's a place where you can truly soak in the ancient ambiance without feeling rushed. The volunteer guides and available information sheets enhance the visit, allowing you to gain a deeper appreciation for the church's historical and spiritual significance.
For those seeking a moment of quiet reflection or a deeper connection with history, St. Martin's Church is an essential stop. Many visitors report feeling a greater sense of achievement and spiritual fulfillment here compared to larger, more prominent landmarks.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit