Looking to study at a uni in Canterbury but want to know what you might be able to get up to in your downtime? We've got ten top answers for you!
Updated: 09 Jul 2026
Canterbury can be found in the county of Kent – known to some as the Garden of England – and it’s a picturesque landscape that will surely inspire some excellent work on your uni course. It's a city steeped in history alongside plenty of modern amenities, which will keep you entertained throughout your time studying here. Want to know what you could get up to in Canterbury? We’ve prepared a handy list below of the top ten things to do in Canterbury!
Good for: Admiring an awe-inspiring bit of history
What is it: A world-famous cathedral dating back to the 12th century
Why you should go: The most famous cathedral in the UK, Canterbury Cathedral is a stunning building with loads of history behind it. You’re able to tour the cathedral, and we’d recommend putting aside a few hours to do so, as it’s pretty big and well worth taking your time to explore.
Good for: Getting a generous helping of culture
What is it: An international arts festival
Why you should go: Every year there are loads of excellent performances and exhibitions put on for the Canterbury Festival. From music to literature to dance and more, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Good for: Delicious food to take home or eat right then and there
What is it: A fab farmer’s market and restaurant
Why you should go: Support local traders and head down to The Goods Shed for a bite to eat or grab some locally sourced produce to make yourself something tasty at home.
Good for: Gigs, music and drinks
What is it: A rock ‘n’ roll bar in the middle of town
Why you should go: Love your music loud? Then Lady Luck Bar is the place to be in Canterbury. Hosting live gigs and an impressive sound system hooked up to a jukebox when there aren’t bands playing, this bar will be a top choice for exciting evenings.
Good for: Seeing the sights along the water
What is it: A scenic river that runs through Canterbury
Why you should go: Prefer something a little more serene? Take a walk along the River Stour, or hop on one of the boats for a punt along to see the sights by the water. Excellent sunny afternoon stuff.
Good for: Big nights out for students
What is it: A long-running student bar with DJs, live music and pizza
Why you should go: One of the largest student bars around, the Penny Theatre will be somewhere that you'll become familiar with while studying in Canterbury. Plus, even if you're not there for a night out, it has stone-baked pizza, and it's dog friendly! Both great things.
Good for: Enjoying a drink while pretending you’ve travelled back in time
What is it: The oldest pub in Canterbury
Why you should go: It’s not every day that you get to visit a pub that was founded back in the 1300s. The Parrot is a snazzy place with 14th century décor (but luckily much, much cleaner than anything in the 14th century would have been) and a top selection of ales.
Good for: Exploring the local area
What is it: Loads of scenic strolls to keep you busy
Why you should go: You've got plenty of great walking trails within walking distance (pun intended), and more just slightly further afield (again, pun intended). Just the ticket for getting out in the fresh area.
Good for: Learning about one of Canterbury’s most famous works
What is it: A tour through medieval Canterbury with costumed guides
Why you should go: It’s incredibly likely that you’ve heard of and perhaps read the Canterbury Tales, but you can also take in some of the experience in person with tours through medieval Canterbury, complete with costumed guides.
Good for: Food, films and fun
What is it: A new leisure complex with restaurants, a cinema and all sorts of activities
Why you should go: There's loads to do here, you'll be able to fill a whole day. Check out a film, grab some grub, take an escape room challenge, and head to the Boom Battle Bar for AR axe throwing, darts, crazy golf, karaoke and more.
Universities in Canterbury include Canterbury Christ Church University and the University of Kent, and the University for the Creative Arts has a campus in Canterbury too. It’s not a massive city, and it has a great community feel to it, so expect to meet and make friends with a lot of people here. London is only an hour or so away by train, making connections to the rest of the country simple.
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