Canterbury
 Abbeys |  Cathedrals |
The charming town of Canterbury is situated in the east of the county about 20 miles from the coast - Canterbury has a long and fascinating history. The earliest evidence of a settlement dates back to the Iron Age at about 300 BC, whose remains can be viewed today in Castle Street. But the first settlement of any significance was established by the Romans soon after they invaded Britain in 43 AD. Although Roman Canterbury served as an important gateway to London and beyond, little of Roman Canterbury or (Durovenum Cantiacorum (Durovenum of the Kent men) remains. As the Romans left so the Saxons arrived changing the town's name to Cantwarabyrig (the burgh or stronghold of the men of Kent). When St Augustine landed in 597 he founded numerous churches, on existing Christian communities, the most notable of which subsequently became the seat of the Primate of All England and more recently the mother church of the Anglican Communion world wide. The church of course is the world famous Canterbury Cathedral that dominates the skyline of the town.
Nearby, just outside the city walls, is St Augustine's Abbey, so situated because the early Church did not allow burial within the city walls. The Abbey is the burial place of many of Canterbury's early archbishops, including St Augustine himself as well as of Kent's early kings, notably Ethelbert and his wife Bertha, who sponsored Augustine's Christian mission to England. Today, not much of the abbey remains , having been victim of both its age and of the Dissolution of the Monasteries under King Henry VIII during the mid 16 th century. Nevertheless, what does remain, together with a museum with its impressive displays, does provide a fascinating insight into the Abbey's history.
Walking through Canterbury's old narrow and cobbled streets, the visitor encounters with every step. Starting at St George's Gate to the east of the city centre, the visitor walks along the pedestrianised main street in the town. Several notable buildings can be seen, notably St. George's Tower, the only part of the church where the Elizabethan playwright, Christopher Marlowe was baptised. After St George's St. blends into the High St, a number of buildings stand out. Just over the King's Bridge, which crosses the river, Stour sits Eastbridge Hospital. Built in the late 12 th century, it served as a hospital for poor pilgrims. Across the river where the High Street becomes St. Peter's Street, sits the timbre gables of Canterbury Weavers house. It was one of the houses that was taken over by French Protestants (Huguenots) who had fled France following the St Bartholomew's Day Massacre on 24 August 1572. Somewhat further sits the West Gate that once served as part of Canterbury's fortifications, although now it sits on a traffic island. Beyond the West Gate on St. Dunstan's St. are an attractive set of old timbre buildings, the most famous of which is St. Dunstan's Church where in 1174 King Henry II changed into penitent clothes before walking barefoot to the tomb of Thomas a Becket whom he had allegedly ordered to be executed.
Among the main historical attractions that Canterbury boasts are many traditional inns, charming hotels and fascinating attractions. Being within easy reach of London by both rail and road, Canterbury should not be missed as a spot for a day out or for a longer trip.