Our sightseeing hours have changed. Check our opening times and upcoming closures.
July - August 2025
NEW What's On Guide
Summer at the Cathedral ☀️
Discover England's First Cathedral, join us for FREE* make and do activities, musical workshops and family tours, plus storytelling, outdoor theatre performances and much more...
Pick up a printed copy of our What's On Guide from our Visitor Centre.
*Included free with a valid Cathedral Admission Ticket, Cathedral Pass or Friends’ Card. Children aged 17 and under go free (T&Cs apply); does not apply to group bookings or school visits.
FREE EXHIBITION
Eat. Sleep. Pray. Repeat.
Until autumn 2025
In the Viewing Gallery, Cathedral Visitor Centre
Free for all to view - no admission required!
Visit our fascinating new family-friendly exhibition, which delves into the lives of the medieval monks of Canterbury Cathedral.
Told through their own words, drawings and objects, discover what they did with their day, what they cared about, and why they needed sign language for “pass the soap”!
LIMITED TIME ONLY FREE* ART INSTALLATION
moon landing: an immersive music and textile collaboration
9 June - 31 August 2025
This summer, we are hosting the breathtaking installation moon landing; a duo work created by British textile artist and designer of woven textiles, Margo Selby, in collaboration with award-winning composer, Helen Caddick.
*moon landing is free-to-view by anyone with a valid form of Cathedral sightseeing admission (including Cathedral Admission Ticket, Cathedral Pass or Friends’ Card), or those attending a service in the Quire.
Images: moon landing at Canterbury Cathedral © Chapter of Canterbury Cathedral | Jon Barlow
Book your tickets
Tickets start from £19.50 or free if you have a Cathedral Pass or Friends Card.
Other concessions available, with a valid proof of eligibility.
Group visits and school visits must be booked separately; KIDS GO FREE offer does not apply to group or school visits.
Explore and discover
With architectural triumphs, spectacular stained glass windows, and magnificent collections – discover all that the Cathedral and its grounds has to offer.
Plan your visit
Everything you need to know to plan your visit - from ticket prices, to opening times, to making the most of your day.
Visiting with children
Where history happens and memories are made.
Make a day of it
Take time to explore the world-class heritage in Canterbury.
Group visits
Visiting Canterbury Cathedral is a great addition to any itinerary.
School visits
Have an inspiring day out filled with an abundance of historical and educational interests.
Fascinating facts
28
The number of years it took for the Nave to be completed, beginning in 1377. The Nave is one of the most magnificent surviving examples of English Perpendicular Gothic.
235
The height in feet of Bell Harry Tower, the tallest part of the Cathedral.
A masterpiece of medieval design and craftsmanship, it was completed approximately 30 years before Henry VIII’s Dissolution of the Monasteries.
856
The number of medieval heraldic shields on the ceiling of the Cathedral’s Great Cloisters.
These coats of arms sport a range of symbols and motifs – including a mermaid and gold rabbit! What will you spot?
The Lounge is Open!
The Lounge at Canterbury Cathedral Lodge - our on-site café - is open for food and drinks, between 10:00-16:00.
So, pop in for a cold drink, a tea or coffee, or stay awhile to enjoy lunch, light snacks and a selection of sweet treats!
Please note, only assistance dogs are permitted in the Lounge.
Other well-behaved dogs are allowed in the Refectory garden, when open to diners in the spring and summer months (weather permitting), during the café opening hours.
We're dog friendly!
Visitors can bring their well-behaved four-legged friends into the Cathedral building and grounds.
- Dogs must be on a short lead at all times.
- Owners must clean up after their dogs.
- Unfortunately, dogs aren’t able to accompany their owners on a guided tour or mini talk.
- Only assistance dogs are permitted at services.
- Dog bins are available.
Cathedral Lodge Lounge
Only assistance dogs are permitted in the Lounge - our on-site café - during the café opening hours (10am-4pm).
Other well-behaved dogs are allowed in the Refectory garden, when open to diners in the spring and summer months (weather permitting), during the café opening hours.
Keeping you safe
Did you know that Canterbury Cathedral has its own Constabulary?
Our officers are here 24/7 to protect this special site, and to ensure the safety of all who come to visit and worship at the Cathedral.
Visiting with young children?
Canterbury Cathedral is an exciting experience for both you and your little ones. Come and meet Gregory Gargoyle and remember kids go free!
Talks, tours and more
Canterbury Cathedral is a great addition to any itinerary.
From introductory talks to expert guided tours, we have a variety of options available.
What's on
Making History: Church State and Conflict
Explore the complex, and often violent, story of Church-State relations through the centuries
Stay in the loop
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