During my Erasmus year in Canterbury in England, United Kingdom, I was able to wander around the city, but also discover nice little places surrounding it. Here are some one the ones I recommend you to see.
Dover
Coastal and port city in South-East England, it’s the closest from France with only 20 miles of Channel from Calais! It’s 16 miles away from Canterbury. The city is also famous for its castle which you can visit, and is one of the oldest English bastions for £20 (which I didn’t do). You will probably come across sheep, which only add more charm to this place.
What’s really worth it, is to walk to the white cliffs, from where you’ll have an amazing view (careful to people scared of heights!), and even a view on France, on the horizon. Plan half a day and trainers, because the walk is quite long and made of small paths!
This place is one of my best memories in England.
Hastings
Hastings is an old seaside city in the East Sussex county, and is about 50 miles away from Canterbury (≈1h30 drive).
By taking the funiculaire, (for about £3 the return ticket), you’ll be able to access the hills surrounding Hastings, at the top of which is a large expanse of greenery, and people walking around and observing the amazing view on the city and on the sea.
Rendez-vous at George Street, dynamic pedestrian street in the heart of the city, with little shops…
Ideal to eat the traditional English meal : fish and chips, of course!
Rye
Rye is a small city located in East Sussex, about 37 miles away from Canterbury (≈1h drive). It’s a cute place next to the sea (less than 2 miles away), especially when there’s a nice sunset!
Wander in the streets of Rye and look at the so traditional and particular architecture of England, and its paved roads is alway such a pleasure.
For the story: The Telegraph (English newspaper) crowned one street of Rye as “the most beautiful street of England”!
Scotney castle
In Kent, this castle is actually an English style countryside house. Be aware that the car park and the visit are not free.
It’s nice to walk around, especially in autumn, when the trees and leaves are of a nice colour!
There are also… French style gardens!
Littlebourne
Littlebourne is the closest to Canterbury (only 6 miles away), and is therefore also located in Kent.
Around this village, there’s the Howletts zoo!
Another zoo near Canterbury: the Wingham Wildlife Park.
Chilham
15 minutes away by car (6 miles) from Canterbury, Chilham is a small rather isolated village, where it’s calm. There’s a cute square where are nice little cafés, perfect to peacefully have an English tea, like at Shelly’s Tea Room, where we were!
Here are some places I recommend you to go and discover, in the surroundings of Canterbury. If you go in one of these cities (or even in an other one), don’t hesitate to tag us on your pictures!
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