Canterbury

Estimated Population

148,000 based on ONS survey to mid 2007

Overview

Canterbury has been a European pilgrimage site of major importance for over 800 years since the assassination of Archbishop Thomas Becket in 1170. Today it is one of the most beautiful and historic cities in England. The medieval city centre bustles with famous name stores and exclusive boutiques while the picturesque side streets are home to smaller specialist shops, pubs and restaurants. Canterbury and the surrounding area has a whole host of history and heritage for you to come and discover. Canterbury is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and has two castles, six museums and an attraction that lets you step back in time to the Middle Ages are some of what is on offer in historic Canterbury.

Leisure and Retail

The district has some exceptional shopping to offer for all tastes. In Canterbury itself, the Whitefriars development offers many popular retailers in one spacious and well-designed location. This recently opened venue has helped to ensure the city offers some of the best shopping opportunities in the county.

Heading towards Westgate Towers and the St Dunstan's area, you will come across a range of specialist, privately run emporia offering everything from antiques and collectables to classical music. That theme continues as you walk in another direction, this time along the King's mile, a continuation of the city centre’s pedestrianised area, and on towards Northgate.