From special services, tours and talks, to unique exhibitions, music concerts and visitor events, there's always lots to discover at Canterbury Cathedral.
Highlighted events Talks and tours Exhibitions Services of Worship & Faith Events
Highlighted events
Please note, all talks, tours and special events have a max. capacity; pre-booking may be essential or otherwise recommended where possible. Please arrive early, as talks/tours/events will start promptly; if you arrive late, you may not be able to join the talk/tour/event. Please read individual talk/tour/event information and T&Cs before booking/attending.
Only assistance dogs are permitted at services, talks, tours and special events (unless otherwise stated). Please note, in some locations, dogs of any kind are not permitted, so please check full information and T&Cs before booking/attending.
If you have any questions, please contact our Visits Team at [email protected]
Christmas at the Cathedral
Traditions start here
Experience Christmas at Canterbury Cathedral, and join in the celebration of festive traditions, both old and new.
Discover services of worship and carol services - both traditional and new - see the story of Christmas etched in stone and stunning stained glass, and don't miss the return of 'A Christmas Carol' performed for two nights only.
Whether your traditions feature choral music, carousels or Christmas trees – there’s something for everyone at Canterbury Cathedral.
FAMILY-FRIENDLY FUN
Gregory and Peti’s Creature Trail
Between 24 October - 1 November, during opening hours
Discover hidden creatures depicted in stone and stained glass, as you explore the Cathedral.
You can also marvel at miraculous stained glass up close with our new free-to-view exhibition - Smashed, Bombed, Lost - Recovered.
FAMILY-FRIENDLY FUN
Build your own Bug Hotel
Sat 31 October, 11:00-15:00
Location: Archdeaconry Garden (entry via The Cloisters)
Work with our gardeners to build your own bug hotel to take away with you, using materials from our Cathedral gardens.
All ages welcome. This activity is part of our Autumn Open Garden event.
Please note, there is no level access to the Archdeaconry Garden.
Autumn Open Garden
Sat 31 October, 11:00-15:00
Location: Archdeaconry Garden (entry via The Cloisters)
Explore this hidden garden - rarely open to the public - and enjoy gardening talks by our Head Gardener and Gardening Team, with tips and tricks for looking after your own garden.
You can also make build you own bug hotel! All ages welcome.
Please note, there is no level access to the Archdeaconry Garden.
Reflective Guided Pilgrimages
WEEKLY on a Thursday, 16:30
(Weather dependent; please check dates)
A short guided walk around the outside of the Cathedral, stopping at places of significance for reflection and prayer.
All are welcome to our evening service at 17:30, followed by a blessing.
Free to attend; but donations gratefully received.
MONTHLY
FRIENDly Singing for Wellbeing
St Paul’s Church Hall, CT1 1NH
ALL welcome – rusty singers included!
Turn up for a cuppa and a biscuit, followed by sociable singing to put a smile on your face, led by Jamie Rogers, Assistant Director of Music, and our Choral Scholars.
Free to attend; donations welcomed.
Organised by and in support of The Friends of Canterbury Cathedral (Charity No 1210093).
Remembrance Sunday
8 November
10:15 Civic Act of Remembrance and Wreath Laying in the Buttermarket
10:45 Civic Service of Remembrance in the Cathedral Nave
The Cathedral service will be livestreamed on our YouTube channel
EXCLUSIVE STUDY DAY
Lost and Found: Hidden Histories of Canterbury’s Stained Glass
Tues 10 November, 10:30-17:00
Complementing the exhibition currently in our Viewing Gallery, this study day will combine visits to the Stained Glass Studio and the Archives reading room with talks from leading experts in their field; with a delicious lunch and refreshments included.
Don't miss this rare opportunity to discover the stories behind our stained glass.
General admission: £95; Student admission: £45
Remembrance Day Extended Bell Ceremony
Wed 11 November, 11:00
All are welcome to join us at the Compass Rose in the Cathedral Nave for this act of remembrance.
In person only
An Evening with Sarah Raven & Adam Nicolson
Thus 12 November, 18:30-20:30
Venue: The Lodge at Canterbury Cathedral, CT1 2EH
Join Sarah Raven and Adam Nicolson for a rare evening together, sharing the inside story of two remarkable gardens - Sissinghurst and Perch Hill - and the family, ideas and history that connect them.
Together, Sarah and Adam will explore these two very different places: Sissinghurst, steeped in memory and nostalgia, and Perch Hill, colourful, experimental and always looking forward. Through their personal stories, you’ll discover how each garden has evolved, the people and ideas that have shaped them, and what gardens can give us in return - beauty, solace and a tremendous sense of optimism.
£29 per person
Season of Safeguarding 2026
Fri 13 – Sun 22 November
Our annual Season of Safeguarding returns this November, with a number of events and services to reflect, listen and learn.
These will include: Eucharist and Evensong on Safeguarding Sunday (15 November); an opportunity to tie ribbons on the railings outside Cathedral House to create a LOUDfence to show support and solidarity for those affected by abuse; and more.
Operation Moonlight presents
'A Christmas Carol' at Canterbury Cathedral
Fri 13 & Sat 14 November, 19:30
A theatrical festive treat for all the family, Dickens’ beloved tale of redemption is brought to the stage at Canterbury Cathedral in an authentic and joyful adaptation from Operation Moonlight.
SELLING FAST
Canterbury Cathedral presents
Handel’s Messiah by Candlelight
Sat 21 November, 19:30
The girl choristers and Lay Clerks of Canterbury Cathedral will be joined by period instrument ensemble, The Harmonious Society of Tickle-Fiddle Gentlemen, and a stellar line up of critically-acclaimed soloists, for a candlelit performance of Handel’s Messiah.
Tickets: £25 (+ £2 booking fees)
Sparkle and Splendour: Archives & Library Tour and Meal
25 November & 4 December
Discover the stories held within Canterbury Cathedral.
Step behind the scenes of the Cathedral’s Archives and Library and explore a remarkable collection of historic documents, rare books and fascinating objects.
Enjoy an exclusive presentation of treasures rarely seen by the public and discover the stories they reveal about the Cathedral’s past. All topped off with a delicious meal as part of your ticket price.
- Wed 25 November - Tour and Dinner from 18:15
- Fri 4 December - Tour and Lunch from 11:15
£75 per person (10% discount for Friends of Canterbury Cathedral).
To book, call 01227 865350 or email [email protected]
Please advise of any allergies or dietary requirements at the time of booking.
EXCLUSIVE ONSITE PARTNERSHIP CLASS
RSN Day Class: Canterbury Robin inspired by the James I Charter
Sat 28 November, 10:00-16:00
Embroider a beautiful festive robin motif, with Royal School of Needlework tutor, Kathryn Sanders - an exclusive design and class, inspired by the original James I Charter issued in 1608, and visit the Cathedral Archives and Library to view the charter close-up.
Class cost: £185
Lumos presents
A Classical Candlelight Christmas Experience at Canterbury Cathedral
Fri 18 December, 19:30
Step into a candlelit evening of festive classics and Christmas favourites, reimagined by a live string sextet in the beautiful surroundings of Canterbury Cathedral.
Tickets: £40- £90 (+ booking fees)
Lumos presents
A Christmas Candlelight Classical Concert by opera star Camilla Kerslake
Sat 19 December, 19:30
Step into a candlelit evening of festive classics and Christmas favourites, reimagined by a live string trio in the beautiful surroundings of Canterbury Cathedral.
This performance will include a pianist, string trio, and BRIT-nominated soprano, Camilla Kerslake!
Tickets: £40- £90 (+ booking fees)
Illuminated Orchestra presents
Tribute to Hans Zimmer & Film Favourites Illuminated