Cultural delights at Canterbury Christ Church University
Canterbury Christ Church University in Kent has plenty to offer to culture vultures. Start at the Sidney Cooper Gallery, home to Canterbury's finest modern art collection. At St Gregory's Centre for Music, you'll find a packed calendar of internationally important performances, all housed in a grand 19th century former chapel. Night owls should head for the student union for budget student nights and live comedy.
Breathe in historic Canterbury
The university sits in Canterbury, an historic city with a UNESCO World Heritage Site at its heart. Start at the imperious Canterbury Cathedral, one of England's oldest and finest churches, before heading to Augustine's Abbey and St Martin's Church. See ancient jewellery and mosaics in an excavated Roman house at the Canterbury Roman Museum. Kids will love Canterbury Tales, a fun, interactive tour showcasing the works of Geoffrey Chaucer.
Stunning walks in the Kent Downs
Canterbury is just over 10 minutes by car from the lush green expanses of the Kent Downs AONB. It's dotted with tiny villages, historic castles and picturesque trails. Start at Perry Wood for unbroken, romantic woodland, before heading to the quirky Agricultural Museum. Further afield, Dover Castle houses a fine military museum in one of England's oldest strongholds. Planning a trip to Canterbury Christ Church Cathedral? Canterbury Chaucer Central Hotel is right in the historic centre, while Travelodge Canterbury Whitstable Hotel is perfect for exploring the North Kent coast.