Rediscover 1400 years of England’s history in Canterbury
With this week’s easing of national restrictions, the Cathedral is now open to visitors again
Founded by St Augustine in 597AD, Canterbury Cathedral is England’s first cathedral, and the jewel in Kent’s crown: UNESCO World Heritage Site, Mother Church of the Anglican Communion, and seat of the Archbishop of Canterbury. However, successive lockdowns during the coronavirus pandemic have meant that this local treasure has been closed to visitors since November 2020, and has lost vital income needed to sustain the Cathedral and its centuries-old tradition of worship.
With this week’s easing of national restrictions, the Cathedral is now open to visitors again, and - with new visitor experiences, stunning indoor and outdoor spaces, and a Kids Go Free offer until 31 October 2021* - is hoping that many Kent residents will take the opportunity this summer to enjoy the unique world heritage on their doorstep.
With a history spanning over 1,400 years, the Cathedral has witnessed many upheavals and is itself intrinsically linked to the nation’s story - from Viking raids to the Norman Conquest, the murder of Thomas Becket, Magna Carta negotiations, the Reformation, and the Blitz.
The power struggle between King Henry II and Archbishop Thomas Becket shaped the Cathedral’s fortunes most strongly. When, in 1170, after a long-running dispute, King Henry II is said to have exclaimed “Who will rid me of this turbulent priest?”, four knights set off for Canterbury and murdered Thomas in his own cathedral. Shortly afterwards, miracles were attributed to Thomas, and the Cathedral became one of medieval Europe’s most important pilgrimage sites.
The Cathedral is also the final resting place of royalty. Henry IV, the first Lancastrian King, is entombed at the Cathedral, as is iconic medieval warrior ‘The Black Prince’ (Edward Woodstock, son of Edward III) whose magnificent effigy tomb is adorned with his shield, helm and other ‘achievements’.
It a masterpiece of English Gothic architecture. From the high-ceilinged Nave with stunning stained glass, through the richly decorated Quire to the atmospheric Crypt - which still retains some medieval wall paintings - each part of the Cathedral has its own rich style and intriguing history to discover.
The Benedictine tradition of welcome extends to this day, and the modern Cathedral greets visitors from across the world, introducing them to an array of treasures from stunning medieval stained glass and beautiful stonework, to exquisite large open gardens. Daily talks and bookable guided tours are available, while groups can enjoy a range of ‘behind the scenes’ tours and enhanced visits.
Those who live or work in Canterbury may also be eligible for free entry to the Cathedral if they qualify for a Precincts Pass (see the Cathedral’s website for details).
Rediscover England’s First Cathedral and enjoy a day out 1,400 years in the making!