More than a Cathedral in Canterbury
Europe is so packed now that even when we travel off-season, we still make most of our arrangements in advance. These days, the convenience of not waiting in line offsets the hassle of being on a schedule.But every once in a while, we regroup on the fly and end up pleasantly surprised. On our last trip, it was an unplanned visit
to Canterbury, a perfectly charming town in eastern Kent.
Straddling the River Stour, Canterbury was conquered by the Romans in the first century AD. As was their wont, they laid the town out in a grid and encircled it with a wall, which remains largely intact.
The conversion of King Ethelbert in 597 really put Canterbury on the map. The Pope's emissary, Augustine, chose Canterbury as the Episcopal See for Kent, and a Cathedral and Abbey were built. Trade flourished, and the church grew in power.
After Thomas a Becket's murder in 1170, the church became a popular pilgrimage destination. The various and sundry passing through town inspired Chaucer to write his Canterbury Tales.
Today, Canterbury Cathedral is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the ruling base of the Anglican Communion (Church of England). Its history, soaring ceilings, ornate fan vaulting, and stained glass windows make it one of the most impressive churches in England.
You can also tour the ruins of St. Augustine's Abbey.
For a different view of Canterbury and its medieval architecture, take a 30-minute boat tour on the Stour. The boats leave from next to the Weavers House, which was built in 1500. Details are available at www.canterburyrivertours.co.uk
There are scores of restaurants and shops inside the city walls. We had a good French lunch on the terrace at Café Rouge.
The train from London takes around 90 minutes. From Dover, it's between 20 and 30 minutes. If you want t stay overnight, the ABode's High Street location is hard to beat. Visit http://www.abodehotels.co.uk/canterbury
