Canterbury – Somewhere we’ve heard of and probably thought we knew about but in reality we knew nothing! It turned out to be the ideal Motorhome City break.
Why we’ve never been before lord only knows because it’s less than 3 hours from where we used to live in Hampshire. That being said, I definitely don’t think we would have appreciated it in the same way as we do now.
Seeing through new eyes
We’ve always been history and architect lovers but never really took the time to look at the finer details of these places. To make note of the subtle hints of their origins which could be as simple as the name of a road or a window frame.
Our undivided attention is now captured by a building that has multiple types of brick, highlighting the different time periods it has been through. Or a seemingly normal building with smooth masonry but the 1st story juts suspiciously out from the level below, hinting at the original building underneath.
Been there, done that
What does this have to do with Canterbury you ask? Surely this is no different to the other Towns, Villages and Cities we’ve been to with medieval or historic features?
Well, I’ll tell you. There is literally something for everyone in Canterbury. It’s the perfect blend of history, modern culture, shopping and amazing food!
Add to that the park & ride that accommodates Motorhomes (& Campervans!) and you have perfect Motorhome City break. (See bottom of article for more information on the Park & Ride)
You can feel it in the air
As you walk around, there is a certain buzz and you can’t help but smile and become immersed in your surroundings.
Walking from the bus station, you walk through the modern quarter where you’ll find familiar high street shops. Then as you stroll down to the main drag of shops, you start to see how the new has been interwoven with the old.
There are shops you will recognise the names of still, but they are in the shell of structures past. A personal highlight was Cafe Nero being on the site of Elizabeth I’s old guest chambers.
Cafe Nero 
The Old Weaver’s House 
The Old Weaver’s House is Lapped by the river 
Also, The Old Weaver’s House Restaurant halfway along the high street was stunning. It is a half timber building, dated at 1500 above the door. It’s original build, however, is suspected to be from the 14th Century.
There is an authentic ducking stool at the rear as well! It’s an old style of punishment for ‘scolds’ (women who spoke back to their husbands!) or suspected witches.
Step in to the Past
Going back a bit towards the top of the high street, we turned off and headed down the cobbled side streets. This is where you really step back in time.
You are treated to wonderful rows of slightly crooked buildings, some leaning in over the narrow walkway. They then open up in to Butter Market Square. There are vintage shops, gift shops, pet shops and plenty of places to eat.
The Square 
Where modern meets old 
I believe a couple of these roads are Roman as there is a Roman museum down one of them but sadly it wasn’t open when we visited. I thought I detected that familiar pattern of stones in the centre flanked by larger stone edging but I need to look further in to that to be sure.
Kicking off our visit the right way
As a four (because we were still with John and Mandy) we wanted to get out and do some proper sightseeing on this Motorhome City Break.
After doing some preliminary investigation when Mandy and I went shopping the day before, we decided to start our day by going to Cafe Chambers. They serve up pancakes and American style grilled cheese sandwiches amongst other tasty offerings.
Jon and I had the above, mine washed down with an Aperol Spritz and Jon’s with a Bulmers. At 10.45am. How does the saying go, When in Rome?
The sun was shining so we were able to enjoy our breakfast outside. We had to anyway because at the time, Covid restrictions were still in place but we would have easily chosen to dine out side. The Cafe sits in a little crossroad ‘hub’, amongst other local bars and cafes and has the Cathedral as a neighbour
Canterbury Cathedral – intro not necessary
The hushed hustle and bustle of the back streets made a lovely accompaniment to our breakfast and after fuelling up, it was time to get our stomp on.
First up was the Cathedral. I’m sure this beautiful structure needs no introduction, being ‘one of the oldest and most famous Christian structures in England’. It is currently undergoing some restoration work so part of the building was surrounded by scaffolding.
That didn’t take away from the grandeur of this magnificent place though. You only have to walk up and look at a small portion of the exquisite carvings in the caen stone to understand what you’re looking at. Pilgrims and visitors have been making their way to Canterbury Cathedral since the Middle Ages and it is still very much a working and living Church.
Again, the inside space wasn’t open but we had free rein of the outside areas. We enjoyed a lengthy stroll around the exterior and the open areas within the grounds. My personal favourite was the herb garden which has been sited within the ruins of the old dormitory.
I was eager to explore within the rubble but it’s not accessible. Boooo.
Westgate Towers
We ventured back to the main street and towards Westgate Towers. The impressive 60 foot high stronghold is the largest and finest surviving medieval gateway in England.
Originating from the 14th Century, it was converted in to the City Gaol once its defensive powers were no longer required.
It became a museum at the start of the 20th Century but was brought back into active service in both World Wars, playing a key role in the City’s air defences. Today, it houses exhibits covering all aspects of its past. That will definitely be one to come back and visit once its all open!
Westgate Towers 
Lunch (or Dinner if you’re northern)
All the walking had stirred up the boys’ appetites so it was decided we would hit up Chuck and Blade Burgers. This was back near Cafe Chambers where we had been earlier. We had spotted their menu on our way past and saw that they served poutine.
We’ve not had it before but John and Mandy said it was delicious and we should try it. Now, on the surface, it doesn’t sound that appealing; chips, squeaky cheese and gravy.
Poutine is delicious!! 
We had some grilled halloumi with it too
We were sceptical and assumed the Northerners were just pushing their love of gravy on to us. (The dish is actually Canadian but gravy is the staple ingredient to any norther diet. Us Southerners only tend to have gravy in two instances – with a roast dinner or with pie and mash)
Eat our words, literally
Oh my!! We stood firmly corrected, it was delicious!! They had the option to add beef brisket as well which was absolutely divine. Pure filth on a plate and we couldn’t get enough. Both of us have definitely found a new favourite meal, we just need to find places that serve it now.
The Perfect End
Needing to walk off our substantial lunch, we opted to go for a walk around some of the side and back streets. Taking our time, we were just soaking in the atmosphere and taking note of any interesting things we hadn’t spotted before.
We then looped back to the centre and past the towers to Westgate Parks. The River Stour runs through the centre and forms a link between the City and the serene landscape of the parks.
We stopped to have a sit down in the sunshine and relax, watching the world go by. For a Tuesday afternoon, there was plenty going on. Friends were meeting for picnics and catch ups, students were taking time out and people on their work breaks were stopping to enjoy the fresh air.
It was a wonderful way to end our day before getting the bus back to the Motorhomes to chill out for the evening. I have to say, being able to be back in your home relaxing and putting your feet up with 20 minutes is definitely a winner!
The Perfect Motorhome City Break
This is merely a snapshot of all there is to see and do in Canterbury. Considering the ease of parking, the proximity to the City Centre and the endless variety of things to see, do and eat, it definitely won’t be our last visit.
We have plenty more we want to explore (such St Augustine’s Abbey!) and there is definitely food that requires our taste testing! Plus I can get my hit of retail therapy whilst Jon naps back in the Motorhome with the Cats so everyone wins. It really is the perfect Motorhome City Break.
NEW DOVER ROAD PARK & RIDE DETAILS
- The park & ride costs £4 a day (chargeable form 8am)
- Maximum stay of 48 hours
- There is a grey and black waste disposal point
- There is a separate fresh water point
- Bins are provided
- Unlimited bus travel to the City Centre is included in your stay, just use your parking ticket
- It is also possible to walk to the City, it takes about 25 minutes
- There are 3 park & ride sites, we used the New Dover Road one
Another great post !👌, what a great place to visit.
Thank you!! I think you guys would love it, we’ll have to all go back together one day x