Our free* 15-minute Mini Talks offer a a bite-sized exploration of the Cathedral’s history, and guided tours are the perfect way to discover the Cathedral’s amazing history, spaces, and secrets.
We also host a range of paid talks, and run various free* themed talks, tours and open days through the year.
Please note, all talks and tours have a max. capacity; pre-booking is recommended where possible. Please arrive early, as talks/tours will start promptly; if you arrive late, you may not be able to join the talk/tour. Please read individual talk or tour information and T&Cs before booking/attending.
Only assistance dogs are permitted at services, talks, tours and special events; however 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]
*Included free with a valid Cathedral Admission Ticket, Cathedral Pass or Friends’ Card. Kids go FREE every day! (T&Cs apply); does not apply to group bookings or school visits.
FREE* Mini Talks
DAILY Between 10:00-16:00, various intervals
Listen to a bite-sized exploration of the Cathedral’s history with a free 15-minute Mini Talk, delivered by our knowledgeable team.
A great chance to discover more about the 1,400 years of history of our magnificent Cathedral - from the Black Prince and the turbulent Thomas Becket, to our Historic Graffiti and marvellous Stained Glass.
Take a pew and learn something new!
Talks subject to availability on the day. Ask at our Visitor Centre for times.
*Included free with a valid Cathedral Admission Ticket, Cathedral Pass or Friends’ Card. Kids go FREE every day! (T&Cs apply); does not apply to group bookings or school visits.
'The Inside Story' Tour
WEEKLY Monday - Saturday 10:30, 12:00 and 14:00 and Sundays 13:00
Discover the story of Canterbury Cathedral through its soaring architecture, beautiful medieval stained glass and the history that helped make and shape the Cathedral.
From the Cathedral’s origins in the 6th century, the tour will encompass 1,400 years of history - with tales of royalty, clergy and everyday craftsmen who made the Cathedral what it is today - set amid a background of wars, political struggle and tales of bravery.
£5 per person, plus Cathedral admission charge.
Book at our Visitor Centre on the day of your visit, or email [email protected] to reserve your space.
Reflective Guided Pilgrimages
WEEKLY on a Thursday (please check dates), 16:30-17:00
Join our Pilgrim Officer after visiting hours, for a short guided pilgrimage around the outside of the Cathedral, stopping at places of significance for reflection and prayer.
We will walk in silence between reflections of meaning, in an exercise of mindfulness, and in preparation for the evening service.
All are welcome to our evening service at 17:30, followed by a blessing.
Free to attend; but donations gratefully received.
SPECIAL THEMED TOUR
Queen Bertha's Walk
Friday 4 September, 11:00-12:30
A guided walk tracing Queen Bertha’s footsteps through Canterbury to the Cathedral, highlighting her pivotal role in laying the foundations of Christian worship in Kent.
Retrace the daily walk Queen Bertha of Kent took from St Martin’s Church, via St Augustine’s Abbey to Canterbury Cathedral, and learn about the re-introduction of Christianity to this part of the world by St Augustine in the 6th century as you pass other historic landmarks along the way; concluding with a short visit inside the Cathedral to complete the story.
£25 per person, with Cathedral admission included.
Book at our Visitor Centre on the day of your visit, or email [email protected] to reserve your space.
Also available for private and group bookings by enquiry to [email protected]
FREE* & FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY
'Canterbury and the early Normans' Reading Room Open Days
Tuesday 8 & Wednesday 9 September, 11:00-15:00
- Entrance through the Water Tower Corridor
Come to the Reading Room to enjoy a limited time only interactive experience relating to the Bayeux Tapestry.
We will be showcasing work by Christ Church University on reconstructing the Norman Castle in Canterbury, there will be hands-on models to explore the development of the cathedral throughout history and an opportunity to construct Norman and Gothic arches, as well as a selection of costumes for selfies!
Special objects on display will include maps produced by William Urry of early Norman Canterbury, and a replica of a section of the Bayeux Tapestry (borrowed from Canterbury Museums).
*Included free with a valid Cathedral Admission Ticket, Cathedral Pass or Friends’ Card. Kids go FREE every day! (T&Cs apply); does not apply to group bookings or school visits.
Please note, dogs are not permitted in the Archives.
Gentle Tours
Join us for our step-free tours, delivered at a gentle pace, in a smaller group; split into two parts, with a comfort break.
Hear the story of Thomas Becket, our most famous Archbishop, and see the site of his murder and feast your eyes on some of our oldest stained glass windows.
Explore the Quire and a ‘Cadaver tomb’, contrast medieval and dramatic modern windows and find out why there is a cannonball in an Archbishop’s tomb!
Dates:
- Thursdays 10 & 24 September, between 14:15-16:00
- Thursdays 15 & 29 October, between 14:15-16:00
- Thursdays 12 & 26 November, between 14:15-16:00
- Thursday 10 December, between 14:15-16:00
£5 per person, plus Cathedral admission charge.
BACK FOR 2026
'Climb the Corona' Tour
Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays in July - September*
The Corona Chapel was built in the 12th century to house the crown - ‘corona’ in Latin - of St Thomas Becket’s skull, which had been sliced off during his murder and was revered as a saintly relic.
Explore the Chapel, usually closed to the public, before climbing the 95 steps to the top of the tower itself!
£12 per person, plus Cathedral admission charge.
This is a popular tour; pre-booking suggested. Over 16s only.
Read full tour information and restrictions before booking.
*until 19 September
Canterbury Cathedral
Heritage Open Days
Between 11 - 20 September
Every September, thousands of volunteers across England organise events to celebrate the country’s fantastic history and culture. It’s your chance to see hidden places and try out new experiences – all of which are FREE to explore.
This year we are hosting three special events at Canterbury Cathedral:
- ‘Lives of the Monks’ Guided Tour
- 'Cathedral Gardens Through History' Exhibition
- 'Monastic Gardens' Guided Tour
All events have a limited capacity and spaces fill up fast - so don't miss out, and book your FREE place now!
BOOK NOW
FREE Heritage Open Days
Food for Thought - The Bayeux Tapestry Revisited
A talk by Prof Benjamin Pohl, Professor of Medieval History, University of Bristol
Thursday 17 September, 19:00-20:30 at Cathedral Lodge
Prof. Benjamin Pohl is an expert in the history of medieval Britain and Europe. Coinciding with the Bayeux Tapestry’s highly anticipated exhibition in the UK, he will present a new interpretation of how and where this world-famous artefact was intended to be viewed.
The talk is based on Prof Pohl's recent research published in Historical Research, which received global media coverage.
Attendance is free, but advanced registration is required.
This event is organised by the Centre for Medieval and Early Modern Studies (MEMS) at the University of Kent, and supported by the British Academy.
EXCLUSIVE TOUR
Cathedral Library Tours
Our Cathedral Library collection includes books from the early decades of printing onwards, including books from some of the earliest European printing presses.
Join a guided tour to learn more about the Library and to explore some of the collection close-up.
Dates:
- Wednesday 23 September, 14:00-14:45
£8 per person. Cathedral admission not included. Pre-booking required.
EXCLUSIVE TOUR
Behind the Scenes: Book and Paper Conservation in Action
Tuesday 13 October, 14:00-15:15 in the Conservation Studio
A rare chance to see behind the scenes of the Archives and Library, in our conservation and bookbinding studio.
Learn about the skills and techniques required to repair fragile paper, parchment, bindings and seals, and view some fine and rare examples of bindings from our collections.
£25 per person. Cathedral admission not included.
Pre-booking required; not suitable for under 18s.
Regrettably, due to the location, this tour is not wheelchair accessible, and is not suitable for those with limited mobility.
A FRIENDLY TALK
Eva Braun – Victim or Contriver?
Tuesday 22 September, 10:30-11:30 in the Clagett Auditorium
Hear the story of the woman who devoted her life to Hitler. A former saleswoman and photographer’s assistant, Braun lived a secluded life in Hitler’s circle and had no known children. She remained largely unknown to the German public until after the War.
The material of the talk is sensitively presented.
Popular speaker, Melanie Gibson-Barton returns to speak to Friends and reveal more about this now infamous woman.
£10 Friends of Canterbury Cathedral; £15 non-members. Includes tea and coffee on arrival.
This event is organised by and in support of The Friends of Canterbury Cathedral (Registered Charity No 1210093).
A FRIENDLY TALK
Canterbury’s Pubs – 1,000 Years of Pilgrims, Drinking, and History
Friday 25 September, 10:30-11:30 in the Clagett Auditorium
Following on from her highly-popular talk on Aphra Behn two years ago, Charlotte Cornell returns to speak about the inns, public houses, and taverns which have formed a major part of the history of Canterbury over the last millennia.
Offering refuge to weary pilgrims to the city or as social hubs for local citizens, how have these hostelries shaped and influenced local architecture and culture?
Cornell will reveal more about some of the characters who once trod the cobblestones of Canterbury in search of refreshment.
£10 Friends of Canterbury Cathedral; £15 non-members. Includes tea and coffee on arrival.
This event is organised by and in support of The Friends of Canterbury Cathedral (Registered Charity No 1210093).
A FRIENDLY TALK
King Charles III – 40 Years of Architecture
Monday 5 October, 14:30-15:30 in the Clagett Auditorium
King Charles III’s affection for architecture is well-known, but the extent of his engagement has never been fully presented to the public.
In this talk inspired by his book on the subject, Clive Aslet will draw together the many threads, from the ‘carbuncle’ speech made at Hampton Court in 1984 until his accession to the throne.
The four decades of the King's commitment to architecture have coincided with Clive Aslet's career as a journalist, during which he has followed the story and often written about it, not least during the 13 years for which he was editor of Country Life.
£10 Friends of Canterbury Cathedral; £15 non-members. Includes tea and coffee on arrival.
This event is organised by and in support of The Friends of Canterbury Cathedral (Registered Charity No 1210093).
A FRIENDLY EVENT
Quilters’ Guild Partnership Class
Wednesday 28 October, 10:00-16:00 in the Community Studio
An inaugural class run in partnership with The Quilters’ Guild.
Students will be creating a design inspired by our Cathedral’s Cosmati Pavement using the English Paper Piecing quilting method. More information and details of how to book will be released in the autumn.
£65 for Friends of Canterbury Cathedral and members of The Quilters’ Guild; £95 non-members.
Cost includes the kit, a sandwich lunch, and afternoon tea and cake.
This event is organised by and in support of The Friends of Canterbury Cathedral (Registered Charity No 1210093).
A FRIENDLY TALK
Mary Moders – The Counterfeit Lady Unveiled
Tuesday 10 November, 10:30-11:30 in the Clagett Auditorium
Dr Sara Read, Senior Lecturer at Loughborough University will reveal to attendees the story of the many lives and escapades of Mary Moders (aka the Crafty Whore of Canterbury and the Famous Cheat), born near our Cathedral in 1642 and who died by execution in 1673 when she declared to the crowds that she hoped God would forgive her as she forgave her enemies.
Sara Read will reveal the original picture of Mary. Or will she…?
£10 Friends of Canterbury Cathedral; £15 non-members. Includes tea and coffee on arrival.
This event is organised by and in support of The Friends of Canterbury Cathedral (Registered Charity No 1210093).
EXCLUSIVE TOUR
Stained Glass Studio Tour
Friday 10 December, 11:00-12:00
Our Cathedral Studios workshop is dedicated to the preservation and conservation of Stained Glass Heritage.
Visit the studio, meet one of our conservators and learn more about their work specialising in the conservation, restoration and protection of stained glass from the 12th Century to the 20th Century.
£40 per person, with Cathedral admission included.
Pre-booking required; not suitable for under 18s.
Enhance your visit
FREE* Mini Talks
DAILY Between 10:00-16:00, various intervals
Listen to a bite-sized exploration of the Cathedral’s history with a free 15-minute Mini Talk, delivered by our knowledgeable team.
A great chance to discover more about the 1,400 years of history of our magnificent Cathedral - from the Black Prince and the turbulent Thomas Becket, to our Historic Graffiti and marvellous Stained Glass.
Take a pew and learn something new!
Talks subject to availability on the day. Ask at our Visitor Centre for times.
*Included free with a valid Cathedral Admission Ticket, Cathedral Pass or Friends’ Card. Kids go FREE every day! (T&Cs apply); does not apply to group bookings or school visits.
Media Guide
With enhanced content at every step, our media guides allow each member of your group to take their tour, their way, delving deeper into what interests them and gaining insight from our experts.
£5 per person
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.
Exhibitions
Making History: Church, State and Conflict
Cathedral Crypt
Explore up-close a unique collection of artefacts that tell the complex, and often violent, story of Church-State relations.
Amazing objects on display include the battle shield of Edward The Black Prince, a charter of King Henry II issued five years after the murder of Thomas Becket, and an 11th-Century document with the wax seal of William the Conqueror.
Stories Set in Stone
Viewing Gallery
Including exhibits from the 9th Century to the present day, this exhibit tells the story of how stone is carved and explores how techniques and styles of working in stone have changed over the centuries.
Chalices, Flagons and Patens
Water Tower Corridor
Church practice through the centuries has been full of variety, and this can be seen in the objects used in worship, from simple communion cups to decorated chalices.
Monastic Life
Water Tower
In this exhibition in the Cathedral's newly-restored Water Tower, discover what day-to-day life was like for Canterbury's monks
Make a day of it
World-class heritage
Take time to explore Canterbury’s world-class heritage - wander along ancient city walls, walk cobbled streets and relax in riverside gardens as you enjoy contemporary bars, restaurants and independent, boutique shops.
St Augustine’s Abbey and St Martin’s Church
Explore all three sites that make up Canterbury’s UNESCO World Heritage Status: St Augustine’s Abbey and St Martin’s Church, in addition to Canterbury Cathedral.
Learn more about the medieval period with a visit to the Eastbridge Pilgrim’s Hospital or the peaceful Franciscan Gardens.
Stay at The Lodge
And if one day isn’t enough, you can always stay at the Canterbury Cathedral Lodge.
It’s situated within the private grounds of the Cathedral and guests enjoy free entry throughout their visit.