Things to Do in Canterbury with Kids

Canterbury offers a wonderful blend of history and charm, making it an ideal destination for families looking to create lasting memories. We’ve explored the city extensively, and we've identified several ways to make your trip particularly enjoyable with children. Let’s delve into what Canterbury has to offer and how you can tailor your experience to suit everyone in the family.

The most straightforward choice for a family outing is undoubtedly a walking tour. There are three different walking tours available, ranging in price from £13 to £130 – a fantastic range that allows you to choose an option that fits your budget and interests. Walking tours provide a wonderful introduction to the city’s key landmarks, including Canterbury Cathedral, the historic walls, and various points of interest. The sheer act of exploring on foot is often engaging for children, allowing them to burn off energy and discover hidden corners. These tours are generally well-paced, suitable for most ages, and offer an informative way to learn about the city’s fascinating past. Considering the top-rated option, “Canterbury Murder and Miracles Evening City Tour,” at 4.8/5, you could easily create a memorable experience.

Now, let's consider the other tour categories available in Canterbury. Boat tours aren't typically ideal for families with younger children; they tend to be more geared towards adult travellers seeking a relaxing experience on the River Stour. However, if your children enjoy water activities and you’re looking for something different, it could still be an option depending on their ages and interests.

Similarly, we don’t see tours that focus heavily on wildlife as being particularly well-suited to families. These types of excursions often involve specialist knowledge or equipment that may not capture a child's attention – though the overall experience might be appreciated by older children who are interested in nature.

When it comes to evening city tours, such as the “Canterbury Murder and Miracles Evening City Tour,” these tend to focus on adult themes and historical narratives. While they’re consistently highly rated, the content isn't always engaging for younger audiences, and the evening setting may not be conducive to keeping children entertained.

Experiences centred around pubs or breweries aren’t generally recommended for family outings, particularly with younger children. These environments are usually geared towards adults seeking a social atmosphere and often involve loud music and potentially crowded spaces – elements that can quickly become overwhelming for little ones.

However, there's plenty of opportunity to engage the whole family in Canterbury itself. The city walls offer fantastic opportunities for exploration, allowing you to walk along sections of the historic perimeter and enjoy panoramic views. The Cathedral is a must-see; its scale and grandeur are awe-inspiring, and many children will be fascinated by its architecture and history. There’s also plenty of space in and around the Precinct – the area immediately surrounding the Cathedral – for running around and playing games.

Furthermore, Canterbury boasts a variety of museums and attractions that cater to different interests. Exploring these can provide educational and entertaining experiences for the whole family.

Planning a family day out in Canterbury requires a little forethought. Start by prioritizing your children’s interests; what will genuinely capture their attention? A walking tour is a solid foundation, followed perhaps by some time exploring the Cathedral grounds or visiting one of the local museums. Packing snacks and drinks is always advisable – particularly if you're planning on spending a full day out. Allow for downtime too; finding a park or green space where children can run around and release energy will be invaluable. Remember to check opening times for any attractions beforehand, and consider booking walking tours in advance, especially during peak season. With a little preparation, you’re sure to have a fantastic family adventure in Canterbury.

To maximize your time, we recommend dedicating at least six to eight hours to exploring the city centre and its immediate surroundings. This allows sufficient time for a thorough walking tour, visiting key attractions like the Cathedral and Precinct, and perhaps incorporating a brief visit to one of the museums or shops. Don't be afraid to adjust your itinerary based on your children’s energy levels and interests – flexibility is key to a successful family trip.