Best attractions and places to see around Thanington, a locale near Canterbury, offers a blend of historical sites and natural landscapes. Situated close to the historic city of Canterbury, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Thanington serves as a base for exploring significant cultural landmarks and scenic routes in Kent. The area features ancient structures, medieval architecture, and accessible trails.
Last updated: May 4, 2026
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
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Highlight • Religious Site
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Canterbury city centre is a historic, compact medieval city with its famous cathedral, surrounded by ancient city walls, offering many pedestrian zones and historic landmarks such as the Westgate Towers; it is a vibrant mix of well-known shopping brands, independent boutiques, pubs, restaurants and historic sites such as St. Augustine's Abbey and the oldest church in the world, St. Martin's Church.
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The crypt of Canterbury Cathedral is the oldest part of the structure, with roots in the 11th century, and today houses an impressive collection of columns, arches, and tombs, including the remains of Archbishop Thomas Becket, making it an important pilgrimage site. It also bears witness to the destruction during the Reformation, but today it is a quiet, venerable place of prayer and reflection beneath the choir and the Trinity Chapel. It is also a testament to the destruction during the Reformation, but today it is a quiet, venerable place of prayer and reflection.
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Those who wish to experience the Pilgrim's Way to Canterbury Cathedral not just as a leisurely long-distance hike (whether on foot or the faster option by bicycle), but who consciously wish to travel in the medieval tradition as pilgrims, may find some inspiration on this website =>> https://www.pilgrimways.org.uk/the-pilgrims-way-winchester-southwark-to-canterbury
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Some nice historic buildings and heritage, but the level of traffic, means you constantly have to be alert.
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Fab way to head out of Canterbury. Direct link between the City and Patrixbourne
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Nice gravely path, look out for dog walkers and runners.
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Narrow, quiet road along which the Via Francigena runs.
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Thanington is a great base for exploring significant historical sites. You can visit the iconic Canterbury Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of England's oldest Christian structures. Also, explore the medieval Westgate Towers, the largest surviving city gate in England, or delve into the history of St Augustine's Abbey and St Martin's Church, both part of Canterbury's UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Yes, the area offers several natural features and scenic routes. The Crab and Winkle Way is a popular traffic-free route for cyclists, runners, and walkers, tracing a former railway line through 7 miles of countryside. You can also enjoy the tranquil Westgate Gardens in Canterbury or explore the expansive Kent Downs National Landscape for breathtaking natural scenery.
Beyond walking and cycling, you can find various outdoor activities. For cycling enthusiasts, there are numerous routes like the 'Pilgrims Cycle Trail' or routes leading to 'Whitstable Bay'. Mountain biking trails are also available, including challenging routes through the North Downs Way and King's Wood. For more details on routes, check out the Cycling around Thanington or MTB Trails around Thanington guides.
The nearby city of Canterbury, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is rich in cultural experiences. Beyond the Cathedral, you can visit the Canterbury Roman Museum, explore The Beaney House of Art and Knowledge, or catch a performance at The Marlowe Theatre. The Canterbury City Centre itself is a vibrant hub with historic buildings, shops, and restaurants.
Absolutely. Many attractions in the area are suitable for families. The Crab and Winkle Way is a family-friendly cycle and walking path. In Canterbury, you can enjoy river tours along the Stour or visit Howletts Wild Animal Park, located close to the city, for a wildlife experience.
Visitors particularly appreciate the blend of historical significance and natural beauty. The Canterbury Cathedral is praised for its historical depth and architectural grandeur. The Crab and Winkle Way is loved for its traffic-free, scenic journey through the countryside, suitable for all ages and activity levels.
Yes, the area is rich in ancient and medieval history. Besides Westgate Towers, which is a prominent medieval gate, you can also explore the ruins of Canterbury Castle. St Augustine's Abbey, a UNESCO site, offers insights into Anglo-Saxon history and features virtual reality tours to visualize its past glory.
Definitely. The most prominent is Canterbury Cathedral, a major pilgrimage site and the seat of the Archbishop. Additionally, St. Nicholas' Church in Thanington itself is a Grade II listed building with origins from the 12th century, and St Martin's Church in Canterbury is considered the oldest church in Britain still in continuous use.
For a pleasant outing, consider the Crab and Winkle Way, which offers a scenic, traffic-free path. Another option is the 'Pilgrims Way from Patrixbourne to Canterbury', a quiet road and gravel path that provides a lovely connection between the city and Patrixbourne. You can also find various road cycling routes around Thanington, including those with views of Bourne Park or leading to the Kent Vineyards.
Beyond the major landmarks, you can discover unique spots like Thanington Court Farmhouse, a Grade II listed building showcasing historical architecture. In Canterbury, explore the charming Old Weavers House or take a boat tour along the River Stour to see the city from a different perspective.
Yes, for animal lovers, Howletts Wild Animal Park is located near Canterbury and offers a chance to see a variety of wildlife. Further afield in Kent, you can also visit Port Lympne Safari Park for a larger wildlife experience.
Thanington is very close to Canterbury, making it easy to explore. You can walk or cycle into the city via routes like the Crab and Winkle Way. Once in Canterbury City Centre, you can explore on foot, take a river tour, or utilize local public transport to reach various sites like the Cathedral, St Augustine's Abbey, and Westgate Towers.


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