Canterbury Cathedral: England in Stone
Canterbury Cathedral is the oldest cathedral in England and one of the UK’s most visited tourist attractions. One look at its fascinating and often bloody history, it’s not hard to see why it has such an enduring appeal…
That History is brought alive through our country’s beautiful collection of castles, which offer a unique insight into the story of our national heritage.
If you’re interested in British history, you must visit Canterbury Cathedral, which has played an integral role in England’s past. Often referred to as ‘England in stone,’ the cathedral has been central to many momentous events throughout this country’s long and exciting history!
About Canterbury Cathedral
A look at its history…
Founded in 597 AD by St Augustine, who was sent to England as a Christian missionary by Pope Gregory the Great, Canterbury Cathedral soon became the centre of the Christian community.
It became a revered place of worship and a popular pilgrimage destination.
It was damaged by Danish raids in 1011 and nearly destroyed by fire in 1067 before Norman Archbishop Lanfranc began rebuilding it in 1070.
The Canterbury Tales
One of the most famous works of medieval literature, Geoffrey Chaucer’s The Canterbury Tales, written between 1378 and 1400, was based on a pilgrimage to Canterbury Cathedral.
Some well-known historical figures are buried at Canterbury, including King Henry IV, who was laid to rest in 1413. In 1535, the head of Catholic martyr Sir Thomas More was buried at the Church of St Dunran’s Canterbury.
A designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, the cathedral is a mix of Romanesque and Gothic architecture, making it of huge interest to those fascinated by the history and design of significant buildings. The site includes St Martin’s Church, the ruins of St Augustine’s Abbey, and the cathedral itself.
Attacks & Repairs
The cathedral has been the target of many attacks over the years. It was ransacked in 1642 by Puritans in the Civil War but later restored in 1660 when the Church of England was reestablished. Repairs began, and they were completed in 1704.
It was severely damaged during German air raids in the Second World War, with rebuilding efforts taking many years to come to fruition.
The restoration and preservation of Canterbury Cathedral is constant and ongoing.
Bringing its history bang up to date, the cathedral is currently trying to raise £6m funding for the West Front Project to conserve and repair its iconic West Front, take on apprentice stonemasons, and improve disabled access.
Did you know?
- The cathedral’s archives contain more than 8,000 charters
- 30 charters in the cathedral’s archive collection are dated before the Norman conquest
- There are 50,000 books in the cathedral’s library
- There are more than 200,000 documents in the archives and collections
- The cathedral has 40 ‘incunables’ (books printed before 1501)
- There are thought to be more than 3,000 objects in the cathedral’s archive collection
What can visitors expect from a visit to Canterbury Cathedral?
There is something for everyone at Canterbury Cathedral with talks and tours for those who want to find out more about its captivating history and a programme of family-friendly activities.
Or you might want to just go off and browse on your own and soak up the history which seeps out of every stone of the buildings that make up the World Heritage Site.
Check out the medieval stained glass, look at the carved tombs, wander around the cathedral cloisters and study the Cathedral Crypt exhibition which showcases some truly unique historical artefacts.
Summary
There is loads of green space outside ideal for the whole family to get out and about exploring and really helps you to get a sense of the grandeur and history of the place.
Find more information about visiting the oldest cathedral in England, or if you’ve got a taste for all things heritage, why not plan a road trip around England exploring some of its most iconic historical sites of interest and landmarks?
Holiday Parks Near Canterbury Castle
Considering a visit to the oldest cathedral in England? You’re in luck! You can experience a traditional English seaside holiday and view a historic site at the same time with a caravan holiday park near Canterbury Castle!
Seaview Park
Stay at Seaview Caravan Park for stunning coastal views and easy access to Canterbury Cathedral. You can enjoy modern amenities, a heated pool, and direct beach access! Book your seaside escape!
Alberta Park
Experience the charm of Alberta Holiday Park, just a 20-minute drive from Canterbury Cathedral. With family-friendly facilities & beautiful beach walks—perfect for a memorable holiday!