[2025 Canterbury Attraction] Travel Guide for Westgate Gardens (Updated May)

#postandearn Wandering through Canterbury feels like stepping into a storybook. I began at the iconic **Canterbury Cathedral**, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and spiritual heart of the city. Its towering spires and stained glass windows left me in awe — a quiet, sacred beauty even amidst visitors. From there, I meandered through the **King’s Mile**, a charming stretch of independent shops, cozy cafés, and half-timbered buildings. I paused for a coffee at a quiet corner café and watched the world pass by on cobbled streets. Crossing the **River Stour**, I took a short detour for a punting tour — peaceful, with willow trees brushing the water and ducks floating alongside. It gave me a unique view of the old city walls and gardens. I continued to **Westgate Gardens**, a surprisingly tranquil spot just minutes from the center. Locals were picnicking, kids playing — all under the shade of ancient trees. From there, I walked through **Westgate Towers**, once a medieval gateway, now a small museum and viewpoint. The afternoon sun cast long shadows as I wandered back through quiet alleys, snapping photos of hidden courtyards and old stone churches. Ending my walk with fish and chips near **St. Peter’s Street**, I felt both fulfilled and nostalgic. Canterbury is more than just history — it’s a place that breathes charm at every turn. A perfect city to explore on foot.

📍 First Stop: Canterbury Cathedral The oldest Christian holy site in England, the Gothic architecture is awe-inspiring! The stained-glass windows and the site of St. Thomas's martyrdom are perfect photo ops📸. Tickets are £15.5, and it's recommended to go in the morning when it's less crowded~ 🚶‍♂️ Second Stop: Westgate Gardens & City Wall Trail Stroll along the medieval city walls and overlook the beautiful River Stour. Westgate Gardens is incredibly romantic during cherry blossom season, and you can also take a boat trip on the river for a quintessential English experience! 🏰 Third Stop: Canterbury Tales Immerse yourself in Chaucer's *The Canterbury Tales* with interactive exhibitions that are super fun, perfect for kids or literature lovers! 🍽️ Lunch Recommendation: The Goods Shed A local farmers market + Michelin-recommended restaurant with super fresh ingredients! Must-tries include the cod cheeks and homemade bread, averaging around £30 per person. 🛍️ Fourth Stop: King's Mile & The Crooked House Cobblestone streets + vintage shops, perfect for finding handicrafts and enjoying afternoon tea! Don't forget to check out "The Crooked House"🏠. 🚆 Transportation Tips: A 1-hour direct train ride from London. Advance tickets are more cost-effective! 💡 Best Season: Spring/Summer (April-September), sunshine + greenery make for amazing photos! ✨ Follow me to unlock more unique European adventures! ✨

#londontraveltip Escape the city and step back in time with a day trip to Canterbury, one of England’s most historic and charming towns. Just under an hour from London by train, this medieval gem is packed with stunning architecture, fascinating history, and a lively atmosphere. ⭐️ Top Things to Do Canterbury Cathedral – A UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most important cathedrals in England. Admire its grand Gothic architecture and learn about its role in the murder of Archbishop Thomas Becket. Stroll Through the Medieval Streets – Wander the cobbled streets lined with timber-framed buildings, boutique shops, and cozy cafés. Westgate Gardens – A peaceful riverside park perfect for a relaxing break with views of the old city walls. River Stour Boat Tour – See Canterbury from a different perspective with a punting tour along the scenic river. The Canterbury Tales Experience – Step into the world of Geoffrey Chaucer’s famous tales with this interactive attraction that brings medieval stories to life. 🤫Travel Tips Getting There: Take a direct train from London St Pancras (under an hour) or Victoria (about 90 minutes). Best Time to Visit: Spring and summer offer beautiful weather, but Canterbury’s cozy atmosphere makes it a great year-round destination. Food Tip: Try a traditional Kentish ale at a historic pub like The Parrot, one of the oldest in town. With its rich history, scenic spots, and easy access from London, Canterbury is the perfect day trip for history lovers and casual explorers alike!

A day in Canterbury, one of England’s most historic cities, is like stepping back in time. From its stunning cathedral to charming streets and tranquil riverside views, Canterbury offers a perfect blend of culture, history, and picturesque beauty, all easily explored in just one day. Start your day at the iconic Canterbury Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the heart of the city. Known as the seat of the Archbishop of Canterbury, the cathedral is steeped in history, from its stunning Gothic architecture to its role in the infamous martyrdom of Thomas Becket in 1170. Take a leisurely walk through Canterbury’s cobblestone streets, lined with historic timber-framed buildings and independent shops. Visit the Canterbury Tales Experience for an immersive dive into Geoffrey Chaucer’s famous stories. Stop by a quaint café or pub for a traditional lunch—perhaps some fish and chips or a hearty meat pie. Relax with a punting tour on the River Stour, offering serene views of the city and its medieval bridges. Enjoy the calm waters as you glide past scenic gardens and historic sites with a knowledgeable guide sharing tales of Canterbury’s past. Afterward, stroll through the beautiful Westgate Gardens, perfect for photos with its colorful flowerbeds and views of the 14th-century Westgate Tower. Visit the Ruins of St Augustine’s Abbey, part of Canterbury’s World Heritage Site, and learn about its role in early Christianity. Browse the local boutiques and craft shops in the city center for unique souvenirs. A trip to Canterbury is more than sightseeing—it’s an opportunity to connect with England’s deep history and culture. From the grandeur of the cathedral to the charm of its riverside and medieval streets, Canterbury offers a delightful escape from modern life, making it a must-visit destination for a day trip. #europetrip

🍀Canterbury Day Tour, recommended route: Westgate Gardens - Cathedral - High Street - St. Augustine's Abbey 🍀Westgate Gardens (Pic 2) is about a 10-minute walk from Canterbury Train Station. Take a stroll along the river, rest under the trees, and enjoy the beautiful flowers in spring and summer. You can take a punt up the Great Stour River that flows through Westgate Gardens, and enjoy the natural scenery and the town on both sides of the river, as well as the leisurely life of the locals. Next to the garden is the Westgate Towers Museum and Viewpoint, which is open from 12:00 to 15:45 from Monday to Friday and Sunday. Tickets are £13. The 60-foot-high Westgate (Pic 3) on the city wall is the largest existing city gate in England. It was built with rubble around 1379 and is the last survivor of Canterbury's seven medieval gates. It is well preserved and is one of the unique landmarks of the city. 🍀Through the city gate is the bustling High Street, which is about 800 meters long. The main ancient city scenery of Canterbury is on this street, and there are many restaurants and shops (Pic 1, 6, 7, 8, 9). 🍀Canterbury Cathedral is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-visit place in Canterbury. It is very spectacular and beautiful (Pic 4). 🍀St. Augustine's Abbey was built in 1500, but was gradually demolished after 1538. Now only some architectural ruins remain, and it is listed as a World Cultural Heritage Site. 📌Address: Longport Canterbury CT1 1PF 📌Time: 10:00-17:00 daily 📌Ticket: £8.5 🍀If you have time, you can visit the "Crooked House" (Pic 5) 📌Address: Canterbury CT1 2DZ

On the 20-Minute Park Effect~ The gardens in Canterbury are so beautiful💕💕 . 📝Route Guide⬇️ Depart from London, take the subway to King's Cross, walk 8 minutes to St Pancras station, and transfer to a train to Canterbury West station. Trains run approximately every hour. . 🎫Ticket Purchase: 1. Departure point-----Subway-----King's Cross (depending on your distance) Method: Subway card/visa 2. St Pancras station-----Train-----Canterbury West (1-hour journey) Method: Recommended to buy tickets on-site, round-trip tickets are cheaper (you can buy regular one-way tickets and off-peak anytime tickets) . The road you enter is the most beautiful part~ You can also take a boat~ After touring Canterbury, go to Whitstable beach to relax~ Very chill~

Canterbury was the first town I visited during my study abroad in the UK. This time I returned to the UK to revisit the old place, the pictures of that year are still clear Traveling seems to be the magician of life, it can prolong people's life Recalling the past experiences is so fulfilling and long Canterbury is a world cultural heritage and is also called the town in oil paintings by many people. Take a bamboo boat and go boating on the clear stream The red houses and flowers on both sides of the river dotted our sight. It also intoxicated my heart❤ ✅Tips for transportation: Kingscross, London Bridge, London Victoria and other stations have direct trains to the town. It is recommended to take the London Bridge to Canterbury West. The distance from the west station to the town is very close, only 5 minutes. The other two stations are Canterbury East and you have to walk a long way. ✅Tips for playing: 1️⃣After getting off the train, navigate to Westgate Gardens Riverside. This is the most popular garden in town. The place to take the boat is here. The boat is charged by the boat. 2️⃣After visiting the previous spot, walk to Westgate tower, where you can see the panoramic view of the town’s main street 3️⃣Then go to St Peter street, the main street of the town, where there are many small shops to visit 4️⃣The Beaney House of Art & Knowledge, a medieval royal library 5️⃣After visiting the library, continue walking forward to Mercery Lane, which I think is the most beautiful street in the town. 6️⃣After the tour, walk forward to Christchurch Gate, the most famous monument in Canterbury 7️⃣Visit Canterbury Cathedral, one of the 10 most famous churches in the UK and the church where the bishop of the Queen's funeral is held 8️⃣After visiting the church, you can walk to Saint George's Tower. You can go up to the tower to see the panoramic view, but it is not open every day. The fruit stand next to the tower is very cheap. ✅Tips Tips Best playing time: If you don't want to be a special forces soldier, you can spend half a day to visit the whole town. Because the town is really small, it is recommended to go to Dover together with the White Cliffs of Dover. Take bus No. 15 from Canterbury bus station directly to Dover. The ticket price is 2 pounds. · 🙆‍♀️I am Fei Shishi who keeps moving and loves to share 📸I am keen on using the camera to record the beautiful scenery of the journey ❤️Follow me🤩 🙌Provide you with more travel tips for taking photos and checking in during your trip ·

#europetrip Canterbury is an ancient city in Kent in the southeast of England. It is loved by tourists for its historic Canterbury Cathedral, ancient streets and romantic rural scenery. London's back garden town, one of the most popular British tourist destinations, is a city in Kent in the southeast of England. It is known as the "English Garden" and has a rich history and cultural heritage, while Canterbury is as beautiful as an oil painting. Westgate Garden is even more beautiful and unreal. It is a beautiful and clear moat. The river is full of colourful flowers, slowly rowing boats, and houses with a sense of history. It seems to have entered a fairy tale town and strolling on the ancient streets and walking paths of Canterbury. Destination handicraft shops, second-hand bookstores, traditional British pubs and restaurants- 📍Canterbury , Canterbury, UK #Canterbury #Uk #Britain #smalltown #boatride #Village

It's really beautiful, and the clear sky makes for great photos! I recommend starting from Westgate Gardens to admire the flowers, and after that, follow the main city road, City Walk. Don't forget to look at the little alleys on both sides of the road; you'll see the magnificent Canterbury Cathedral. You can enter the cathedral during Evensong to appreciate this grand building, and there are also many blooming flowers outside the church! Freshly taken photos, everyone can have their own painting-like picture🖼️

When it comes to foreign oil painting towns, this is definitely a must-see. I thought it was beautiful enough, but I didn’t expect it to refresh my understanding of British towns. It’s not an exaggeration to say that I accidentally entered God’s “back garden”! - 🌳Pick some popular attractions! 📍Westgate Garden: It used to be a private residential garden, dating back to the ancient Roman period thousands of years ago, and has a strong historical and cultural atmosphere; but the most amazing thing is its scenery, with lush trees, colorful flowers, and a gurgling moat flowing slowly under the small bridge. Just looking at the picture makes you sink - 📍Canterbury Cathedral: Known as the "Gateway to Heaven", it is one of the oldest and most famous religious buildings in the UK and a symbol of the city. It has a beautiful courtyard, and under the Gothic-style colonnades surrounding the courtyard, there are tourists who often come to read books to kill time. - 📍St Augustine’s Abbey: This is a monastery built by the first archbishop. Currently, only some ruins remain. It is also a world cultural heritage. On the small hill on the southeast side, you can climb up and overlook the entire monastery. - 📍The Crooked house: One of the most popular check-in spots in the area, this half-timbered building was built in the 17th century and became tilted when the chimney was renovated. In addition to books, there are also souvenirs such as postcards. - 📍The White Cliffs of Dover: A unique landscape on the south coast of England, it is very suitable for short hikes. It is very close to Canterbury and can be reached by train in about 10 minutes. - 📍Roman Baths Museum: Located on the south side of the cathedral, it is only a few minutes’ walk away. It restores the scenes and exhibits of the Roman period. The hot spring baths are preserved inside, as well as the large bath 6 meters below the ground and the hot springs of the King’s Bath.

📍12:21 | Canterbury, the "oil painting town" in the UK, is so beautiful that it makes me cry😍! This is London's back garden🤩 and one of the British people's favorite tourist destinations🥳. It is located in Kent, southeast England, and is known as the "Garden of England"🌸. It has a rich historical and cultural heritage🤓! Canterbury is as beautiful as an oil painting🖼, and Westgate Gardens is so beautiful that it seems unreal😍! In the clear moat🚣, there are colorful flowers💐, small boats slowly passing by🚢, and houses full of historical sense🏠. It really feels like walking into a fairy tale town🎡! Wandering along the main street full of medieval atmosphere🛤, the quaint medieval town and the modern street lamps and asphalt roads complement each other🎄. British retro handicraft shops, second-hand bookstores and pubs can be seen everywhere🥂, as if you are in medieval England🛡! Walking in Canterbury, I was enchanted by the beautiful scenery every step of the way😘~

#celebratewithtrip #canterbury #unitedkingdom These are the famous gardens beside the River Stour, with a 200 year-old plane tree and a Victorian Tower House. The tree dominates the views in the park, it is really huge, see for yourself. Had to take some photos but felt like there were nicer views to admire such as the pretty gardens with beautifully arranged flowers or the houses on the side of the river. It was rather peaceful and quiet and one can relax and enjoy the birds singing .

#celebratewithtrip #unitedkingdom #canterbury Westgate Gardens start from the Westgate Tower. Here are some photos with a view towards the tower. It's so beautiful. There are houses alongside the river and they all look so cute. You can see people really take care of their gardens and the overall look of the house. It was so nice and green when we visited and we thoroughly enjoyed our visit. It's a shame we had to head to the train station so early.

#cityplaybook #stunningview Discover the charm of Dane John Gardens, one of Canterbury’s oldest public parks, located right within the city's ancient walls. With its elegant pathways, flower-lined lawns, and a central mound offering panoramic views, this park is a tranquil blend of history and beauty. Enjoy a peaceful walk past statues, fountains, and a Victorian bandstand, or simply relax under the shade of old trees. A favorite among locals and visitors alike, it’s the perfect place to pause and soak in the atmosphere of Canterbury. #DaneJohnGardens #CanterburyCharm #HistoricParks #EnglishHeritage #CanterburyViews #GardenWalks

#GatewicktoCanterbury #GoToCanterbury #SoloTravelPlanning Traveling from Gatwick Airport to Canterbury by train Exit the baggage claim area, walk out the Terminal South exit to board the Shuttle train. Book tickets in advance through Trip.com. This time, board Platform 4. Tip: I recommend choosing anytime because sometimes if it's on time, there may be a delay, which will cause you to miss the train connection. Book a sprittiket until St. Pancras. Board the exit according to the Platform you booked. There will be a board to show you the destination. Look at the attached picture. This time, the Platform was changed 15 minutes before departure. Keep checking the screen. You can check it through the booking you have made in the Trip.com application. Continue sitting until you reach Canterbury West station. You can visit Canterbury. You can walk around.

📅 Itinerary - Westgate Towers Museum & Viewpoint : walk 5 min from train station - Westgate Gardens : walk 2 min - River Great Stour : walk 7 min - The Three Tuns : walk 2 min - High Street : walk 4 min - The Beaney House of Art & Knowledge : walk 1 min - Christ Church Gate : walk 3 min - Canterbury Cathedral : walk 1 min - The King's Mile : walk 5 min 🥣 Food Recommendations - Ask Italian : i ordered pasta with prawn — not bad but quite bland 😭 - Garage Coffee : if you guys are looking for a place to be chilling, i recommend you to visit here ⭐️⭐️⭐️ matcha and cake are also soooo good 🍵🍪

#springitinerary The recent sunshine has been amazing! 😄 (Some online said the UK "stole" Spain’s sunshine 😂). I found a beautiful photo spot at Westgate Gardens! There’s a magnolia branch hanging down — you can stand behind it and pretend to smell the flowers, it’s perfect for a cute shot with your friends. 📸 Getting to Canterbury from London: It’s super easy! 🚆 Take the subway to King's Cross Station, then walk to St Pancras International. Exit the underground and follow the signs inside the station. Catch the train to Canterbury West (make sure it’s the West station!). Once you arrive, it's just a 3-5 minute walk to the popular Westgate Gardens park. At Westgate Gardens: The flowers are in full bloom now! 🌸 It’s still gorgeous — and the water is crystal clear, sparkling beautifully under the sunshine. ✨ However, I noticed that this year’s flowers are shorter compared to last year, which makes them harder to photograph perfectly. Maybe it's just me, though! 🤷♀️ #thingstodo

#SeptemberTravelSupportEvent I went on a trip to Canterbury near England. It felt like a small fairytale town. The prettiest thing about it were the flowers in full bloom. There are flowers everywhere, and it's so pretty to take pictures there. If you go to England, I definitely recommend Canterbury as a trip near London!

Canterbury, a town in Kent, southeast England, is not only the first foothold of the Roman Catholic Church in England, but also the residence of the Archbishop of Canterbury, the de facto leader of the Anglican Church. The town, with its cobblestone lanes and wooden houses, seems to take you back to medieval England. Canterbury is known as "London's backyard". Its heart, Westgate Gardens, is a picturesque riverside public garden that is unforgettable. Canterbury Cathedral and St. Augustine's Abbey have been listed as World Cultural Heritage by the United Nations. The Crooked House, a landmark leaning building mentioned in Dickens' "David Copperfield", has Dickens' words on the lintel, and even the door is crooked. It has become a landmark leaning building in the city, which is fascinating.

Westgate Gardens, located in the heart of Canterbury, is a shining pearl in the city. In spring and summer, the garden is full of beautifully designed flowers and green plants, as if you are in a vivid oil painting. This was originally a private residential garden of a famous family in Canterbury, which can be traced back to the ancient Roman period thousands of years ago. A town garden full of Shakespearean architectural style. The clear river slowly flows through the center of the town, reflecting the fairy-tale houses on one side, the lush trees, the flowers, and the gurgling river flowing under the short bridge. "The green reed on the mud, swaying in the water; in the soft waves of the Cam, I am willing to be a water grass" Xu Zhimo's poem on the side of the Cam in Cambridge found a footnote here. Swans and ducks can often be seen swimming freely on the river, and the beautiful scenery is frozen into a famous local public leisure garden.

#familytrips2024 The family outing to Westgate Gardens was a delightful escape into nature's embrace. As we entered this tranquil oasis in the heart of Canterbury, we were greeted by the soothing melody of the River Stour flowing gently through the park, flanked by lush greenery and vibrant flower beds. Our day unfolded with leisurely walks along winding pathways, where we admired the graceful swans gliding on the water and picnicked beneath the shade of ancient trees. The children delighted in feeding the ducks and exploring the whimsical play areas dotted throughout the park, while my partner and I reveled in the peaceful ambiance and scenic beauty that surrounded us. It was a serene retreat filled with laughter, relaxation, and cherished family moments. Looking ahead to our next dream destination, I envision us embarking on an enchanting journey to the stunning landscapes of Banff National Park in Canada. Nestled amidst the majestic Canadian Rockies, Banff offers a playground of natural wonders, from towering peaks and emerald lakes to pristine forests and cascading waterfalls. We'll hike along scenic trails, paddle on tranquil lakes, and marvel at the breathtaking vistas around every corner. Whether it's spotting wildlife in their natural habitat, soaking in hot springs surrounded by snow-capped mountains, or stargazing under the vast night sky, Banff promises an unforgettable adventure for our family amidst the awe-inspiring beauty of the great outdoors.

Westgate Gardens in Canterbury is a picturesque park nestled along the banks of the Great Stour River. Known for its tranquil ambiance and scenic beauty, the gardens offer a serene escape from the bustle of the city. Me and a friend strolled along the riverbank, admiring the greenery and diverse plants. The Great Stour River adds to the charm, providing a habitat for various wildlife species. Boasting historical significance and various places to sit and relax with friends and/or family, Westgate Gardens is a cherished attraction in Canterbury, inviting locals, students and tourists alike to immerse themselves in its peaceful ambiance. #localguides #canterbury #kent #unitedkingdom

#Must-visit spots in the UK Westgate Gardens, as long as you raise your camera, the beautiful scenery has become an oil painting, with small bridges, low houses, lawns and rivers full of flowers, it feels very much like a child's painting. Starting from Canterbury railways station, walk for 5-10 minutes to have a picnic on the lawn of Westgate Gardens, surrounded by sunshine, trees and flowers on all sides! Full of happiness!

Canterbury is located in the southeast of London in Kent County, and is one of the oldest small towns in England. It is also the earliest landing point of the Roman Catholic Church in England. It is known as the "back garden of London". Westgate Garden, formerly a private residential garden, dates back almost thousands of years to ancient Roman times. It is a quaint town garden full of Shakespearean architecture. A clear and shallow river flows slowly through the center of the town, reflecting the fairy-tale-like houses on one side, becoming the most beautiful scenery of the town. The trees are lush, the flowers are blooming, and the murmuring river flows under the short bridge, while the Shakespearean-style manor stands silently in such a landscape. It is now a famous public leisure garden in the area. Swans and wild ducks can often be seen on the river next to the garden. The vigorous vitality, the reflection of past times, and the excellent scenery all make for a perfect photo opportunity. It feels like stepping back into Monet's garden many years ago, with a painting-like landscape. England, Europe.

#celebratewithtrip #unitedkingdom #canterbury Westgate Gardens are located on the edge of Canterbury old city next to one of the ancient gates and church. It's a very picturesque place to sit and enjoy. You can see that even the locals go there to relax or walk their dogs. It is really pretty, just by the river and so nice and green. As we were heading towards the train station, we did a small round of the park and sat for a few minutes to admire the views. Beautiful place!