With architectural triumphs, spectacular stained glass windows, and magnificent collections – discover all that the Cathedral and its grounds has to offer.
Enjoy a year to explore with your annual ticket - visit again and again.
There's so much to discover...
Architecture
The impressive architecture of Canterbury Cathedral has been crafted through hundreds of years of building and rebuilding.
The earliest parts of the Cathedral were built c.1070, on top of the remains of a small Saxon church. Fire damage, new techniques and changing fashions all led to numerous rebuilds over the centuries, which can be seen today.
Cathedral grounds
Discover historic ruins, momentous memorials, and scenic gardens.
Highlights include medieval ruins from the original Benedictine monastery, such as the Infirmary Ruins, which were part of the infirmary and chapel; and the medicinal Herb Garden, which is a recreation of the original garden cultivated herbal remedies, planted on the site of the dormitory ruins in 2005.
Stained glass
From miracles to murders, the 1200m2 of stained glass brings to life the rich, and sometimes gruesome, history of the Cathedral.
Over the years, many original windows have been destroyed through reformations and wars – yet the oldest glass has lasted over 840 years, continuing to tell stories even today.
Historic Graffiti
Historic graffiti across the walls of the Cathedral voices the beliefs, work, hopes and fears of those who built, lived, worshipped and visited this special place over the last 900 years.
Since 2018, a team of volunteers have been surveying, recording and sharing this historic graffiti with visitors, as part of a historic graffiti project.
Tombs & Memorials
The resting place of royalty, saints and archbishop - Canterbury Cathedral's rich history is intrinsically linked to the nation’s story.
Amongst these are the tomb of The Black Prince (Edward of Woodstock, 1330-1376); and the memorial stone commemorating the fire watchers who defended the Cathedral against enemy bombing between 1939-1945.
Learning & Collections
From remarkable historical objects to fascinating reads in the Archives and Library, Canterbury Cathedral has an abundance of collections to pique your interest.
Discover an array of painting and tapestries on your visit, view inspiring exhibitions, and join a guided tour of the Howley-Harrison Library.
Fascinating facts
8,000
The archives of the Cathedral contains around 8,000 charters, including 30 that date from before the Norman Conquest!
50,000
The Cathedral Library contains about 50,000 books, and holds 40 incunables (books or fragments of books printed before 1501).
Our Archives and Collections contain over 200,000 documents - the oldest of which dates from the late 8th century – and about 3,000 objects.
1988
The year that Canterbury Cathedral, St Augustine’s Abbey, and St Martin’s Church were made a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Your visit, your way.
From guide books and media guides, to guided tours and exploring by yourself - there's a way for everyone to experience the Cathedral.
And our knowledgeable Guides are always around and happy to answer any questions and share the history of the Cathedral.
Media Guides
With enhanced content at every step, our media guides allow you to tailor your tour, your way, delving deeper into what interests you and gaining insights from experts.
Available in English, French, German and Japanese.
We also offer children's media guides - perfect for young explorers!
£5 per person
Available to reserve and pre-pay online or from our Visitor Centre on the day of your visit
Guided Tours
Our guided tours are the perfect way to discover the Cathedral’s amazing history, spaces, and secrets.
We also offer free* 15-minute Mini Talks for a a bite-sized exploration of the Cathedral’s history, host a range of paid talks, and run various free* themed talks, tours and open days through the year.
Guided tours from £5
1,400 years of history
Often described as ‘England in stone’, Canterbury Cathedral’s rich history is intrinsically linked to the nation’s story.
St Augustine arrived in Kent and soon established the first Cathedral
Cathedral rebuilt by Archbishop Lanfranc
New Quire built over the Crypt (present Western Crypt)
Thomas Becket murdered in the Cathedral
Quire rebuilt following fire. Eastern Crypt, Trinity and Corona Chapels added (all as seen today)
Becket's body placed in new Shrine in Trinity Chapel
Lanfranc's Nave demolished and rebuilt as seen today.
Pulpitum Screen constructed
Bell Harry Tower extended and the Cathedral largely complete as seen today
Becket's Shrine destroyed by Henry VIII
Monastery dissolved by royal command
New Foundation of Dean and Chapter established
Repair and refurbishing after Puritan damage
North West tower rebuilt
Library rebuilt, repairing War damage
Altar of the Sword's Point (Martyrdom) restored
Compass Rose placed in the Nave
International Study Centre (Cathedral Lodge) opened in the Precincts
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, talks, tours and special events (unless otherwise stated).
Please note, in some locations, dogs of any kind are not permitted; please check full information and T&Cs before booking/attending.
If you have any questions, please contact our Visits Team at [email protected]
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.
Book your tickets now
Annual passes start from £17.50 £19.50 - with unlimited return visits, Mini Talks, exhibitions and activities included - plus Kids Go Free every day! (T&Cs apply)
Get free entry with a Cathedral Pass or Friends Card, plus 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.
