Canterbury

We started our day in Canterbury with a visit to the ancient monastery complex 'St Augustine’s Abbey'.

The abbey was founded by Augustine in 597 and it remained the center of Canterbury until the 11th century.

Together with the cathedral, it forms part of the UNESCO World Heritage.

With an audio guide, we wandered through the grounds and listened to what buildings once stood here.

Most of them were only visible by their foundations.

The monastery fell into ruin after the Reformation by Henry VIII, until only a ruin remained.

Afterwards, we walked through the small city center that extends within the well-preserved medieval city walls.

There are still some particularly beautiful old houses preserved.

Right by the River Stour are the Weavers’ Houses from the 14th century.

When the Flemish and French Huguenots were seeking a new home, they came to England where they were welcomed as skilled craftspeople. In the crypt of the cathedral, we later saw a chapel where French services are still held.

We also stopped by a small French bistro where the waiter spoke English and French. Instead of “Baked Beans”, French breakfast was served.

Finally, we visited Canterbury Cathedral, the seat of the Archbishop and Primate of the Anglican Church.

The main entrance to the Cathedral Square is located at the picturesque Buttermarket, surrounded by colorful half-timbered buildings and townhouses.

The construction of the cathedral took 500 years until its completion.

Only 33 years later, its treasures were plundered or destroyed by Henry VIII, even though it retained its significance in the Anglican Church.

We explored the church, crypt, and chapter house before leaving Canterbury back towards Dover.