Tag 1: Canterbury

Tag 1 Canterbury

Our night is not very restful. It is too loud due to the traffic on the street next door, several campers arrive during the night. In addition, we have to separate David and Erik. They argue and so René sleeps upstairs and David bothers me all night long. We get up at half past 6, pack our things and are punctual at the ferry terminal of the Irish Ferries. Fortunately, the customs officers spare us and we pass through the borders without inspection. The crossing goes quickly with 1 1/2 hours in calm seas and so we reach the coast of England in bright sunshine. We are directed by a guidance system out of Dover and start our tour towards the north. After 30 minutes we reach Canterbury. The city with about 62,000 inhabitants enchants with a beautiful city center with some half-timbered houses. We secure a parking space north of the center and stroll through the Westgate, a gate that belongs to the old city wall. Behind it is a long pedestrian zone. After a short lunch snack we visit the Cathedral, the seat of the Archbishop of Canterbury. The entrance fee is 15 pounds for adults, children have free access.
The church was built in 1067 on the burnt ruins. The large and powerful Gothic building is impressive. Especially the murder of Archbishop Thomas Becket in 1170 is addressed.
After the extensive visit we briefly stop by the free museum Beaney House of Art & Knowledge. It is a small collection of various exhibits such as paintings, specimens of local or exotic animals, as well as stones and unusual objects.
Near the parking lot is Westgate Gardens, a small park on a small stream. The city and the gardens are crowded. The weather invites you to linger and the flowers bloom in the most beautiful colors.
After 3 hours of city tour we end up at the parking lot. Due to the time difference, we gain 1 hour upon arrival in Great Britain, it is now half past 2. We use the gained time and relax at the nearby campsite.