Top Canterbury Historical Tours

See more of Canterbury than you would if traveling in a larger tour vehicle on a walking tour that offers an insider’s glimpse into one of Kent’s most picturesque cities. You’ll listen to stories about ghosts, authors, and historical figures that you’re unlikely to find in the guidebook as you wander down medieval lanes and cathedral precincts.

Four knights walked into Canterbury Cathedral one December evening — not to pray, but to murder an archbishop. This app-based self-guided walking tour takes you through the city shaped by that single act, passing by all three UNESCO World Heritage sites and the medieval streets that connect them. From the spot where Becket fell to the oldest church still in use in the English-speaking world, you'll follow stories of refugee weavers and a poet who wrote one of England's greatest work of literature and died penniless. Fifteen stops over four kilometres, narrated at your own pace — no fixed start time, no group to follow. If you'd rather pause for a riverside lunch than rush between landmarks, this self-guided Canterbury walking tour fits your day, not the other way around. It is perfect for those trying to figure out what to do in Canterbury apart from visiting the cathedral. Over 20,000 travellers have used our self-guided tours, and a full refund guarantee means nothing to lose.

Say no to research and route planning and yes to a journey through over 2,000 years of Canterbury history when you book this small-group walking tour with an accredited guide. See the medieval Westgate, the Marlowe Theatre, the Christ Church Gate and St. Thomas of Canterbury Church, and learn about everyone from playwrights to Romans. Please note: this is a sightseeing tour and entrance fees are not included.

With so much to see, planning an itinerary in Kent and Canterbury can feel overwhelming. Leave your agenda to your private guide, who holds a history doctorate from Cambridge, on this convenient tour. It blends a minibus journey through Kent with a walking tour of Canterbury, letting you see all three of the city’s UNESCO World Heritage–listed sites. From Roman times to medieval monks to Mozart, it’s a comprehensive overview.

Canterbury’s medieval streets echo with tales of the kings, saints and ordinary folk who shaped English history. On this self-guided walking tour, you’ll hear the hidden stories behind the bustling city where ancient walls and cobbled lanes hold centuries of intrigue. The tour starts at the magnificent Christchurch Gate, the entrance to the majestic Canterbury Cathedral, where pilgrims have flocked for centuries. I’ll take you beyond the medieval centre and show you the other two historic places that form Canterbury’s UNESCO World Heritage Site: St Augustine’s Abbey and St Martin’s Church, which is England’s oldest site of continuous Christian worship. You’ll follow the same streets where Roman legionaries once marched and see hidden gateways and ruined churches. The tour ends at St Augustine’s Conduit House, a masterpiece of monastic engineering, tucked away in a corner of the city that even locals rarely discover.

This carefully crafted walking tour has been specially developed for visitors who want a quick introduction to the very best that the city has to offer before exploring sites in more detail. If so, this is the tour for you! Lead by Canterbury resident and Cambridge PhD, Dr Anthony Medhurst, you will discover the most fascinating, historic and beautiful locations within the city's historic walls - all within one hour.

See Canterbury in less time with this express tour of the city. Perfect if you’re a time-crunched traveler, the tour offers a condensed itinerary that focuses on Canterbury’s storied history and culture. Hear about Thomas Becket at the St. Thomas of Canterbury Church, learn of Christopher Marlowe as you pass by the Marlowe Theatre, and get the lowdown on “The Canterbury Tales” at the statue of Geoffrey Chaucer.

On this exclusive private tour, you will discover over 2,000 years of Canterbury's incredible history with a professional, fully qualified guide who is passionate about the city, with many stories to share with you! First up your expert, local guide will lead you through the medieval lanes and narrow cobbled streets with their eclectic mix of historic timber buildings, pilgrim inns, and modern architecture, where you’ll hear the story of Thomas Becket's murder, Chaucer's pilgrims, Marlowe's suspicious death, and royal visits. Following the city tour, you will join your own private guide within the magnificent Canterbury Cathedral, where you will uncover 1400 years of history through its soaring architecture, glorious glass and stunning stonework. A truly breathtaking spectacle. Please note, if you would like a short break between the tours, please contact us after booking, or let us know when we confirm your booking via the message centre.

With narrow cobbled lanes and majestic religious buildings, Canterbury is one of England's most charismatic cities. Discover it on this city walking tour with a private, accredited guide—unlike most other city walking tours, it includes access to the Cathedral precincts. You'll see medieval lanes, inns where pilgrims stayed, and lovely gardens, while your guide tells you colorful stories and gruesome tales.

Bypass the larger sightseeing groups, and head out with your own personal guide to discover Canterbury and its cathedral. The private tour is led by an esteemed Blue Badge guide who’s lived in the city for more than two decades, meaning you’ll get an insider’s perspective as you explore. You’ll listen to tales of the pilgrims of the “Canterbury Tales,” follow the trail of Thomas Becket, and see Canterbury Cathedral, too.

Walking the walls that encircle Canterbury is one of the most exciting historical experiences in England. Attacked on at least seven occasions by invaders, from the Danes to the Nazis, the walls have been used to protect residents for over 1,700 years. On this self-guided walking tour, you'll follow Canterbury‘s historic city walls and dive into the city‘s story of violence, cruelty, fire, and destruction – but also extraordinary hope and progress. You‘ll discover the gruesome fate of Archbishop Simon Sudbury, who paid for the wall with his head. I‘ll show you the statues of King Ethelbert and Queen Bertha, who famously converted pagan England to Roman Christianity. You‘ll also hear about the Canterbury Blitz of 1942, when German bombers devastated the medieval city. The tour ends at the Westgate Bridge where you‘ll see the enigmatic Alluvia, the haunting underwater sculpture inspired by Millais‘ Ophelia and linked to Judge Sir James Hales‘ 1554 suicide.

See Canterbury’s trio of UNESCO World Heritage Sites—Canterbury Cathedral, St. Augustine’s Abbey, and St. Martin’s Church—on this privately guided tour. On a route around the town, you’ll learn about the roots of Christianity in England, and find impressive photo points for views of the cathedral and abbey. Just note that interior visits to St. Augustine’s Abbey and Canterbury Cathedral are not included.

Enjoy a private, exclusive tour with your own local guide. Explore the rich history and cultural heritage of Canterbury on a 90-minute private walking tour. Begin your journey in front of the Beaney House of Art and Knowledge, where you will enjoy storytelling about this iconic landmark. Continue to the Statue of Geoffrey Chaucer, a tribute to the famed poet, before passing by the historic Westgate Towers Museum and Viewpoint. Discover the heritage of the Marlowe Theatre, learn about the city’s vibrant arts scene, and marvel at the architectural splendor of Christ Church Gate. Conclude your tour at St. Thomas of Canterbury Church, where tales of pilgrimage and devotion come to life in the heart of the city.

This tour of Canterbury offers a distinctive blend of historical and cultural experiences, showcasing the city's medieval charm and religious significance. Starting at the Westgate Towers, visitors get an authentic glimpse into Canterbury's medieval fortifications. The exploration of Canterbury Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, provides an awe-inspiring look at Gothic architecture and religious heritage. St. Augustine's Abbey adds depth with its historical ruins and role in early Christianity. The journey concludes with a scenic boat tour along the River Stour, offering a serene perspective of the city's landmarks and riverside beauty. This combination of historic landmarks and picturesque views creates a rich, multifaceted exploration of Canterbury's heritage.

Skip the large tourist groups, and discover Canterbury with your own private guide. With a local expert dedicated to your personal group, you’ll explore the city at a pace that works best for you, avoiding any rushing around. Learn about the city’s Roman and medieval history as you walk, and see monuments like St. Augustine’s Abbey and Canterbury Castle on a route that can be tailored to you.

Enjoy a private, exclusive tour with your own local guide. Embark on a captivating 2-hour private walking tour through the enchanting and storied streets of Canterbury, where every cobblestone whispers tales of the past and every building holds secrets of centuries gone by. Immerse yourself in the city’s rich heritage and vibrant culture as you traverse its historic thoroughfares, guided by a local guide. From the awe-inspiring Canterbury Cathedral Precincts, where the echoes of pilgrims past still linger, to the bustling energy of the lively Buttermarket, this curated tour promises an unforgettable journey through time. Delve into the architectural marvels and hidden gems tucked away in Canterbury’s nooks and crannies, as you uncover the layers of history that have shaped this charming city into the cultural gem it is today.

Explore Canterbury at pace during a running tour that reveals part of the historic city that you might otherwise miss. This experience is limited to only five runners, to make sure it caters to both beginner and expert joggers—you’ll run at a pace suited to the entire group, so that nobody gets left behind.

Enjoy a private, exclusive tour with your own local guide. Embark on a 2-hour Christmas walking tour in Canterbury to discover the city’s rich history and festive charm. Witness the magnificent Canterbury Cathedral, stroll through the Canterbury Christmas Market, immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere, browse unique gifts, and enjoy a vibrant atmosphere. As you wander through the historic city center, marvel at the Christ Church Gate, adorned with Christmas decorations. Take a moment to admire the picturesque Old Weavers House and end the tour in front of the iconic Westgate Towers Museum & Viewpoint. This tour offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and Christmas cheer in the beautiful city of Canterbury.

Canterbury is steeped in history. The city can trace its roots back to the Celtic Tribe, the Cantiaci, who were here before the Romans. From the start of the Roman occupation in the 1st Century, to the arrival of the Papal emissary Augustine in 597AD, to the murder of Thomas Becket in 1170, to the dissolution of the monasteries by King Henry VIII, to the bombings of World War 2 - we will show you the many facets of this ancient, beautiful & intriguing city! This is a private walking tour that will show you the most important & interesting parts of the city of Canterbury. We can begin & end our tour at a location of your choosing (the Old Buttermarket is usually the most convenient) & we can build the tour around your interests. Alternatively, we can suggest a tour that covers the most interesting & historical parts of the city.