Fancy a weekend break that’s a bit… different? You’re in luck! We’ve put together a cracking two-day itinerary that’ll show you the quirky, offbeat Canterbury that most tourists miss. From secret gardens to offbeat tourist attractions, we’ll take you off the beaten track and into the heart of this surprising city. So pack your bags, grab your sense of adventure, and let’s explore the unexpected side of Canterbury!

Discover Canterbury’s Hidden Gems

Secret Gardens and Tranquil Oases

Step off the beaten path and into Canterbury’s hidden green spaces. The Franciscan Gardens, tucked away behind the bustling high street, offer a peaceful retreat with their medicinal herb beds and ancient ruins. For a truly magical experience, seek out the Dane John Gardens’ secret wildflower meadow, a riot of colour in summer and a haven for butterflies.

Quirky Museums and Offbeat Attractions

Forget the cathedral for a moment and dive into Canterbury’s quirkier side. The soon to open Canterbury Tales Experience brings Chaucer’s Canterbury to life in a delightfully immersive way, while the Beaney House of Art and Knowledge houses an eclectic collection of oddities, from ancient Egyptian artefacts to stuffed animals.

Local Flavours and Foodie Finds

Venture beyond the chain restaurants and discover Canterbury’s thriving indie food scene. The Goods Shed, a former railway building, now houses a farmers’ market and food hall where you can sample Kent’s finest produce. Don’t forget to pop into Madame Oiseau’s Chocolaterie for handcrafted truffles – a sweet souvenir of your unconventional Canterbury weekend.

Unconventional Experiences in Canterbury

Ghost Hunt at The Buttermarket

Fancy a spine-tingling adventure? Join a ghost hunt at The Buttermarket, Canterbury’s 17th-century former meat and vegetable market. As night falls, explore this atmospheric area with paranormal experts. You might just encounter the spirit of a disgruntled butcher or two!

Punting with a Twist

While punting on the River Stour may lack the excitement you’re looking for, why not add a unique flavour? Perhaps a ‘Gin and Punt’ tour, where you sip locally distilled gin whilst gliding past historic buildings could be fun. Or even a ‘Nature Punt’, to spot and learn about local wildlife.

Foraging in the Kent Downs

Venture just outside the city to the Kent Downs for a foraging adventure. Join an expert guide to learn about edible plants, mushrooms, and berries growing wild in this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. End your expedition with a picnic featuring your foraged finds – a true taste of Canterbury’s countryside!

Immerse Yourself in Canterbury’s Unexpected Charm

Discover Hidden Treasures

Canterbury may be famous for its cathedral, but there’s so much more to discover off the beaten path. Wander down the narrow, winding lanes of the King’s Mile, where you’ll stumble upon quirky independent shops and cosy cafes. Pop into the Crooked House, a delightfully wonky 17th-century building that now houses a charming bookshop.

Connect with Nature in Unexpected Ways

Escape the hustle and bustle with a peaceful boat tour along the River Stour, gliding past secret gardens and historic buildings. For an even wilder adventure, venture to the nearby Blean Woods, one of the largest areas of ancient woodland in England. Keep your eyes peeled for rare butterflies and listen for the distinctive call of nightingales. End your day with a sunset picnic at Dane John Gardens, a hidden oasis in the heart of the city.

Unconventional Art and Culture

Canterbury isn’t just about medieval history. The city boasts a thriving contemporary art scene that’s often overlooked. For a truly unique experience, time your visit with the annual Canterbury Festival, a two-week extravaganza of music, theatre, and visual arts that transforms the city into a vibrant cultural hub.

Conclusion

So there you have it – a quirky weekend in Canterbury that goes beyond the usual tourist spots. From hidden underground passageways to ghost hunting and the best of the food scene, you’ve seen a side of this historic city that most visitors miss. Canterbury may be known for its cathedral, but now you know it’s got so much more up its sleeve. Hopefully you’ve found some unexpected gems to make your trip truly memorable. Next time someone suggests Canterbury, you can smile knowingly – you’ve uncovered its best-kept secrets. Cheers to offbeat adventures!