Bifil that in that seson on a day,
In Southwerk at the Tabard as I lay,
Redy to wenden on my pilgrymage
To Caunterbury with ful devout corage
Ever since I had read these lines from Chaucer’s The Canterbury Tales as an undergraduate student, a quiet resolve grew in me: I, too, would make my pilgrimage to Canterbury someday. Years later, that long-held aspiration shaped our journey.
We boarded the National Express Bus Service from Victoria Coach Station in London on a summer morning. The road unfurled like a promise. After a two-hour and twenty-minute ride, we arrived at Canterbury, a cathedral city in southeast England and a medieval pilgrimage site.
I was amazed to see the ancient walls, originally built by the Romans. They girdled the medieval magical centrepiece with cobbled streets and timber-framed houses. There was poetry in the stones and in the stony silence. Something within me re-aligned.
Most of the shops were yet to resume their quotidian activities. We walked through the century-old cobbled streets and then headed straight to see the Canterbury Cathedral. Established in 597 AD by St. Augustine, it is one of the oldest Christian structures in England and a part of a World Heritage Site. The Cathedral is the headquarters of the Church of England and the Anglican Communion. It is a unique blend of Gothic and Romanesque elements in its stone carvings and stained-glass windows.
As I stepped inside the ancient structure, I remembered that the Cathedral's role as one of the world's most important pilgrimage centres is inseparably linked to the murder of its most legendary Archbishop, Thomas Becket, on December 29, 1170. His subsequent canonisation in 1173 made Canterbury Cathedral the third most significant site of Christian pilgrimage in the world, after Rome and Jerusalem. I was mesmerised and had goosebumps at the sight of the beautiful stained glass windows, including the “Miracle Windows,” which date back to the 12th century.
The "miracle windows of Canterbury" are in the Cathedral's Trinity Chapel. They depict miracles attributed to St. Thomas Becket after his 1170 martyrdom. These windows illustrated over 700 miracles and aimed to inspire reverence for Becket. Only seven of the original 12 windows remain.
I immersed myself in the grandeur of Canterbury Cathedral. I was overwhelmed as I stepped into the site of Becket’s murder in the northwest transept. I also visited the crypt where Henry II did penance for the murder, and the tomb of Edward the Black Prince. The Bell Harry Tower, the tallest part of the cathedral, stands at 235 feet and offers panoramic views of the city.
Our next stop was the tranquil ruins of St. Augustine's Abbey. This Benedictine monastery, with its historical significance, is situated within walking distance of the cathedral. A slice of history lay before my eyes. I felt blessed, as if the old tale had come full circle.
We went for lunch at a local eatery, which carried the pulse of the place. Our meal was freshly cooked and unpretentious; a cup of Irish coffee added more flavour.
The River Stour flows through the heart of Canterbury, and we decided to take a tour. Our tour guide, Albert, pointed out the hidden gems. Delivered with insight and humour, his enjoyable historical commentary enhanced our discovery of Canterbury's finest and most important architecture. Set against outstanding views of natural scenery, we marvelled at Kings Bridge, the East Bridge Hospital, the Franciscan Island, the Grey Friars Chapel, the Old Weavers House, the Kings Mill, the Alchemist Tower, the Cromwellian Forge, the Friars Bridge, the Blackfriars, the Dominican Priories, the Abbots Mill, and the world-famous Marlowe Theatre.
After the canal cruise, we stopped at “The Beaney House of Art & Knowledge Museum, and Art Gallery,” a beautifully restored building that houses a museum, art gallery, and library. The Museum houses ancient cultural artefacts, stuffed animals, and paintings.
We wanted a little more history with our tipple, so we visited the imposing Westgate Towers. The Towers house a museum and escape room, and also feature a stylish cocktail bar and restaurant in the city's former jail.
We wrapped up the trip with a walk through the incredible Westgate Gardens, a tranquil riverside park that bursts with colour in spring and summer, offering a perfect spot for a picnic or a peaceful escape from the city. Throughout the day, moments of solemn beauty stood out, and the old charm of Canterbury was present in every fold, nook, and corner.
Home to poets and playwrights like Christopher Marlowe and Richard Lovelace, Canterbury drew thousands of pilgrims each year in the Middle Ages, who visited the shrine of Thomas Becket seeking help for their problems. For me, the visit to Canterbury was a pilgrimage too—a dream coming true.
1. Why is Canterbury famous?
Canterbury is renowned for its magnificent UNESCO-listed Canterbury Cathedral, its association with Chaucer’s The Canterbury Tales, and its well-preserved medieval streets and heritage.
2. How do I reach Canterbury from London?
High-speed trains from London St Pancras take about one hour. Regular services from Victoria and Charing Cross offer slower but scenic routes.
3. What is the best time to visit Canterbury?
Late spring to early autumn is ideal for pleasant weather, outdoor walks, and heritage tours. Winter is quieter and perfect for crowd-free sightseeing.
4. Are Canterbury Cathedral tickets required in advance?
While tickets can be purchased on-site, booking online is recommended during weekends and holiday seasons to avoid queues.
5. Is Canterbury a good destination for families?
Yes, the city offers family attractions like Canterbury Roman Museum, boat tours on the River Stour, and child-friendly historic walks.
6. How long should I spend in Canterbury?
A day is enough for the cathedral and city centre, but an overnight stay allows time for museums, guided tours, and exploring nearby villages.