Canterbury Cathedral

About Canterbury Cathedral

Augustine, sent by Pope Gregory the Great, founded a church here in 597, and Canterbury has been the seat of the senior bishop of England ever since. In 1170 Archbishop Thomas Becket was murdered in the cathedral by knights of Henry II. His shrine drew pilgrims from all over Europe, the journey later immortalized in Chaucer's Canterbury Tales.

Henry VIII destroyed the shrine in 1538, and a single candle now marks where it stood in Trinity Chapel. The cathedral remains the spiritual home of the worldwide Anglican Communion. Its Norman crypt, Gothic nave and medieval glass reward a slow visit, and evensong is sung most days by the choir.

What to see

• The Martyrdom where Becket fell
• Trinity Chapel and the site of Becket's shrine
• Norman crypt
• Tomb of the Black Prince
• Medieval miracle windows

Visiting Canterbury Cathedral: practical guide

Best time

April to October

Hours

Generally Monday to Saturday 9:00 to 17:00, Sunday afternoons

Entry

About 18 to 20 GBP; free for worship

Dress code

Smart casual

Nearest airport

London Gatwick Airport (LGW), 100 km

Tips from experienced pilgrims

• Attend choral evensong free of charge
• The pilgrim's ticket includes the precincts
• The Via Francigena to Rome begins at the cathedral

Festivals and special days

• Feast of Thomas Becket (29 December)
• Translation of St. Thomas (7 July)

Etiquette for visitors

Guidance drawn from Christianity tradition. Always follow signs and local custodians.

• Cover shoulders and knees when entering churches, cathedrals and monasteries.
• Men usually remove hats indoors, while some Orthodox churches ask women to cover their hair.
• Avoid sightseeing in the main aisle during Mass or services.
• Check whether photography and flash are allowed before taking pictures.
• Keep your voice low and switch phones to silent.
• Only receive Communion if you understand and follow that church's rules.

Location map

Open in OpenStreetMap · Get directions

Frequently asked questions