Last Saturday, my family and I took our first-ever trip to Canterbury. We set out with a simple goal: to dive deep into the roots of one of the UK’s most storied and historic cities.
Walking through Canterbury feels like stepping directly into the Middle Ages. The city’s core is a labyrinth of timber-framed buildings and cobblestone streets that have stood the test of time.
We began our morning at the iconic Canterbury Cathedral. While we opted to admire it from the outside (the entry fee for a family can be a bit steep!), the Gothic facade is nothing short of breathtaking. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, it’s best known as the site of the infamous 1170 AD assassination of St. Thomas Becket, the Archbishop who clashed with King Henry II. Even from the precinct, you can feel the weight of centuries of pilgrimage.
Next, we visited the Catholic Church of St. Thomas of Canterbury. This was a hidden gem—entry was free, and the interior was deeply moving. We were fortunate enough to see the relics of St. Thomas Becket, including a piece of his bone and a fragment of his burial vestment.
Surprisingly, the church also houses a relic of St. Oscar Romero, a garment he wore during Mass. Seeing such significant artifacts in such an intimate setting was a powerful experience for all of us.
After lunch, we took to the water for a River Stour cruise. Floating down the river for an hour offered a unique perspective of the city. Our guide was wonderful, expertly balancing hard historical facts with the local "gossip" and legends that make Canterbury’s past feel alive.
We made sure not to miss Greyfriars Chapel, which holds the distinction of being the first Franciscan monastery built in England (dating back to 1267). It’s a unique structure, famously built right over a branch of the river. Inside we explored a room that had been converted into a prison cell in later years. We ended our historical tour with a peaceful stroll through the surrounding Franciscan gardens.
It was a fulfilling day for the four of us. Between the history, a bit of essential shopping, and some great local food, the trip was a perfect mix of education and entertainment. I’m certain Kayla and Keiron enjoyed the experience just as much as me and my wife did.
We’re already looking forward to our next family adventure. Where should we head next?
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