29th November - 24th December | 12pm - 5pm
Savour a time-honoured tradition of delicate finger sandwiches, warm scones, and an array of festive cakes and pastries, shared among friends and family. With every sip of fine tea or freshly brewed coffee, it’s an invitation to slow down, share stories, and embrace the magic of the season.
It’s Canterbury’s time to shine! Twinkling cobbled streets, enchanting shop windows and the magical fairytale splendour of Kent’s largest Christmas Market transform the city into a welcoming winter wonderland.
There are so many ways for everyone to enjoy the festive season in Canterbury. Join the Light Switch-On, follow the LEGO® Christmas Tree Window Trail, take a snow flurry selfie in Whitefriars, catch an award-winning panto at the Marlowe Theatre, ride a carousel in the Cathedral Precincts, toast marshmallows in St George’s Street - and much more!
It’s been an exciting year for Canterbury, with a wave of new shops and restaurants opening up across the quarters. Our cherished long-standing businesses have celebrated big anniversaries too – take a trip down memory lane and read their stories here.
Our beautifully compact city offers an astonishingly rich and diverse range of big brands, small independents, boutiques, galleries and salons, as well as international cuisine, stylish bars and cosy pubs – all just a few minutes’ walk apart.
Whether you live, work, study or shop in Canterbury, this guide will help you make the most of the city. You’ll find all you need for a cracking Christmas right here.
The Canterbury BID Team.
Thank you to our friends at Girlings Solicitors for their support in producing this year's Canterbury BID Winter Guide.
04. Christmas Light Switch-on
08. Canterbury LEGO Trail
12. Christmas Markets
16. What's On
26. Christmas Theatre
30. Local Food and Drink
32. City Centre Map
34. Canterbury's Quarters
36. Christmas in Herne Bay
38. Chaucer's Canterbury Tales
40. Café St Pierre at 30
43. New Openings
44. Doodas Hair Salon at 40
46. Christmas in Whitstable
48. Global Cuisine in Canterbury
50. Lilford Galleries at 25
54. Oh Christmas Tree!
56. Bumper Christmas Prize Draw
59. Canterbury Gift Card
60. Travel & Parking
Three incredible gift hampers up for grabssee p56 for details
Friday 14 November 2025
Activities from 5-8pm
Enjoy a magical evening of music, markets, performances and light switch-on moments. There are themed locations stretching from Westgate Hall to Whitefriars, where you can see the lights twinkle from any location!
Attractions: Christmas Markets • Snow Machines • Frozen Characters
• Outdoor Cinema • LEGO® Trail • Live Music and Performances
• Santa and his Sleigh • Selfie opportunities and more!
1 Westgate Hall – Twilight Market 5-8pm, switch-on 6.30pm. Artisan stalls, delicious food and live music to kick off the evening.
2 Marlowe Theatre – Marlowe Stage 5–5.45pm, switch-on 5.30pm
Head to the Marlowe Theatre where No Limits Street Band and and the cast of Snow White will be switching on their festive lights.
3 The Beaney House of Art & Knowledge – Family Hub 5–8pm Father Christmas has arrived! The elves are busy offering free Christmas decoration making workshops, and for those that have booked – Santa will be waiting to see you. You can also enjoy a Frozen inspired trail through the library.
4 High Street – Frozen Fun 5–8pm, lights on 6.15pm Elsa, Anna and Olaf will be outside the Beaney ready to meet you all (5-7pm). Or head to Three Cities Garden (corner of Best Lane, 5–8pm) and join in with a Frozen singalong. You can enjoy live music throughout the evening thanks to Lily’s Social Kitchen.
5 Nasons Square – Jolly Christmas Huts 5–8pm, lights on 6.15pm
Keeping the party in full swing, Jolly Christmas Huts have your food and drink needs catered for.
6 St Margaret’s Street – Let It Snow 5–8pm, lights on 6.15pm
Ever wondered what it would be like to find yourself in a snow globe? Now is your chance to give it a try – a perfect selfie opportunity!
Scan here for the latest on the Light Switch On event
Light Switch-On Moments from 5pm to 6.30pm
Free Park & Ride from 2pm
7 Cathedral Christmas Market
5–8pm, lights on 6pm
Enjoy artisan makers, festive food and drink, a Christmas carousel, selfie opportunities, giant snow globe and live music from Ben Stroud.
8 Burgate – A Victorian Christmas 5–8pm, switch-on 6pm
Step back in time for a traditional Christmas in our cobbled streets. Watch an abridged version of The Christmas Carol, join Tiny Tim for the light switch-on, and savour roasted chestnuts with festive music.
9 St George’s Street –Christmas Market
5–8pm, lights on 6.15pm Toast marshmallows, take a ride on a Virtual Reality sleigh, enjoy a wide range of Christmas huts and music from Olly Smith and Owen The Only Sax!
Fenwick – LEGO®
The LEGO Christmas Window trail launches today. Visit 5 participating trail stops, collect your stamps to claim a free LEGO prize in Fenwick’s Toy Department and meet their giant Snowman!
11 Whitefriars – Christmas Market
5–8pm, lights on 6.15pm
Meet Christmas Characters, enjoy festive food and drink and start your Christmas shopping with live music from Amy Cooper and Dave Rogers.
12 Primark Balcony – Countdown Stage
5–7pm, switch-on 6.15pm, sponsored by Costa Coffee
The Red Button will be polished and ready for the Lord Mayor and cast member of Snow White to switch on the Christmas lights. Enjoy live music from YMS Steel Band and FNK Haus, hosted by Steve Watts. And don't forget to take a selfie in Santa's Sleigh with the East Kent Mind Elves.
FREE for arrivals after 2pm on Friday 14 November for the Christmas lights switch-on event.
FREE all day on Sunday 23 November.
Regular Stagecoach service buses will accept Park and Ride tickets to New Dover Road and Sturry Road after the scheduled Park and Ride buses have stopped. Please check the website for updates.
canterbury.gov.uk/park-and-ride
The Christmas Window Trail is one of Canterbury’s bestloved traditions, a fun festive activity for all the family. This year’s theme is LEGO® bricks – a Christmas list classic! From Friday 14 November to Wednesday 24 December over 40 businesses will be displaying seasonal scenes Collect 5 stamps and claim a mini
LEGO® bricks were invented in Denmark by Ole Kirk Kristiansen, a master carpenter and toymaker since 1932. The name LEGO is an abbreviation of the two Danish words ‘leg godt’, meaning ‘play well’ - did you know that ‘lego’ in Latin also means ‘I put together’?
The forerunner of today’s LEGO bricks were called ‘Automatic Binding Bricks’. During the 1950s, the bricks were renamed and patented with the famous coupling system. The name LEGO was moulded onto each and every brick.
The LEGO wheel arrived in the 1960s, introducing movement to LEGO builds, followed by mini figures and themed sets in the 1970s.
An intelligent LEGO brick integrating robot technology was launched in the 1990s, and in 1999 the LEGO brick was named ‘Toy of the Century’ by the British Association of Toy Retailers and Fortune magazine.
In the 1960s, Godtfried Kirk Christiansen, Ole’s son, announced the 10 LEGO characteristics which still hold true today:
1 Unlimited play possibilities
2 For girls and boys
3 Enthusiasm at all ages
4 Play all year round
5 Stimulating and harmonious play
6 Endless hours of play
7 Imagination, creativity, development
8 More LEGO®, greater play value
9 Easy to supplement
10 Sustained quality
ADMISSION FREE DONATIONS ENCOURAGED
Embark on a journey back in time to the enchanting world of Roman Canterbury. Explore the remains of an authentic Roman Town House, wander through the lively marketplace, and uncover hidden treasures. With each step, you’ll descend into the charming streets of Roman Canterbury, where history comes alive in a season of wonder.
Canterbury Roman Museum
Butchery Lane, Canterbury CT1 2JR
For more information visit: canterburyromanmuseum.co.uk
Museum highlights include:
One of the UK’s only remaining in situ Roman pavement mosaics
A scheduled ancient monument
Rare soldier’s helmet from the time of Julius Caesar
Original hypocaust (under floor heating system)
Exceptional examples of rare Roman glassware
Interactive children’s activities
The Christmas Market is an essential part of Canterbury’s festive season, with picture-perfect German-style wooden huts, delicious food and drink outlets, interactive characters and live music performances. It’s ideal for family days out, date nights, fun with friends or just some Yuletide You-Time!
Canterbury is proud to be the home of Kent’s largest Christmas Market! This year there will be an even bigger section in the Cathedral’s historic and stunning Precincts, along with the city’s traditional Christmas Market sections in Whitefriars and St George’s Street.
All sections of the Christmas Market are free to enter. There is free entry to the Cathedral Precincts during the market – sightseers only pay to go inside the Cathedral and Cloister during visiting hours.
Canterbury has Christmas covered
The extensive Christmas Market complements the city’s huge range of gorgeous independent shops, luxury brands and high-street favourites to make Canterbury the perfect place for Christmas shopping.
shopping
Tick off your present list with late-night shopping til 8pm on Saturday 13 December!
Canterbury Christmas Market at a glance:
Gorgeous gifts and stocking fillers
Delicious food and drink
Meet and greet characters
Live music Thursdays to Sundays
Toast marshmallows over an open fire
Christmas carousel
Snow globe
Special events
Competitions
Photo points
Fun activities
Canterbury Christmas Market opening hours
Wed 12 Nov–Wed 24 Dec
Mon-Fri 10am –6pm
Sat 9am–7pm Sun 10am –5pm
Christmas Eve 10am–4pm
Late night Sat 13 Dec 10am–8pm
Scan QR code for dates, times & booking
Santa’s Grotto with Talking Letterbox
St George’s St from £12.50
Santa’s Grotto is four times bigger for 2025! Children take a magical journey through Elf Reception, through to the Activity Hut where they write their special letter and post it into the Talking Letterbox. Then it’s into the glittering, photo-friendly Enchanted Garden and onto the cosy grotto to meet Father Christmas himself and receive a special, ageappropriate gift.
Lapland VR Experience
St George’s St from £5
Race through Santa’s Christmas Wonderland using HD VR headsets. Seats up to 6 people.
Toy Workshop
Rescue VR Ride
St George’s St from £5
This VR sleigh ride features more immersive interactions than you can shake a candy cane at!
Breakfast with Santa
The Real Eating Company, Whitefriars from £15
Christmas Market in numbers
Bring the little ones along to a meet-and-greet with Santa! Enjoy breakfast, Christmas-themed activities and a small gift in this magical session, around 75 mins.
Santa Paws
The Real Eating Company, Whitefriars
Sat 20 & Sun 21 Dec, 11–11.45am from £4
Bring your good boy or girl to meet Santa himself and get a gorgeous photo taken - plus a festive puppuccino and gift!
Canterbury Cathedral Lodge is a unique hotel situated in the city centre of Canterbury. The Lodge is renowned for its stylish and comfortable accommodation, that boasts the best views in Canterbury, overlooking the idyllic Canterbury Cathedral.
Rates start from £105 per night for a double or twin room, with breakfast and complimentary Cathedral entry included.
Visit our Lounge Bar – serving drinks every day until 10pm. Or, have a
and
Christmas in Canterbury promises to be the most glorious yet. There’s so much happening in the city, from panto to concerts, ballet to comedy, story-telling to crafting – alongside the cherished traditions of choirs, brass bands and carol singing. Wish it could be Christmas every day? It practically is in Canterbury!
Check prices and booking details directly with venues.
Spotlight Tours at The Beaney
Every Sat & Thu, 2.30pm until 20 Dec
Free bitesize tours focused on fascinating items throughout the museum. thebeaney.co.uk
Trondheim Sinfonietta
Thu 6 Nov, 7pm
Fruitworks, Jewry Lane
Contemporary music from the internationally established Norwegian chamber ensemble. fruitworks.co
Stained Glass Windows Tour
Fri 7,14 & 28 Nov, 11.15am-12.30
Canterbury Cathedral
See the oldest stained glass in England, along with 20th century work. canterbury-cathedral.org
Festive Dried Flower Wreath Workshop
Mon 10 Nov & Mon 8 Dec, 6.30pm-8.30pm
Happy & Glorious, Burgate
Create a gorgeous indoor wreath with locally grown flowers. happyglorious.co.uk
Fiddler On the Roof
Tue 11‐Sat 15 Nov
Marlowe Theatre
A classic musical of joy, revolution and community. marlowetheatre.com
Westgate Hall Twilight Market
Fri 14 Nov 5pm-8pm
A special twilight event for the Lights Switch-On at 6.30pm, with live music by Callum Sutton. westgatehall.org
Christmas Light Switch-On
Fri 14 Nov, 5pm-8pm
Twelve themed locations transform the city into a winter wonderland! canterbury.co.uk
Canterbury Cathedral Christmas Market
Fri 14 Nov-Tue 24 Dec
Kent’s largest Christmas Market sparkles into life in the Cathedral Precincts, Whitefriars and St George’s St. canterburychristmasmarket.co.uk
Whitefriars Snow Showers
Fri 14 Nov-Wed 24 Dec Outside Fenwick
Snow is guaranteed in Canterbury this Christmas - and we can even tell you when!
Weekends 11am, 1pm, 3pm & 5pm
Weekdays 5pm whitefriars.co.uk
The Salvation Army’s The Giving Tree
Fri 14 Nov-Wed 24 Dec
Marlowe Arcade
Help make Christmas special for local children who may not receive a gift. Take a tag from the Giving Tree and return it with a new gift to The Canterbury Makers shop.
Life-Size Crib
Throughout the Christmas season Cathedral Precincts
Visit the much-loved nativity scene by the Christmas Market. canterbury-cathedral.org
Westgate Hall Makers Market
Sat 15 Nov, Sat 29 Nov & Sat 20 Dec, 10.30am-4pm
Locally-made produce, crafts, jewellery, homewares and more. westgatehall.org
Terje Isungset Ice Quartet
Sun 16 Nov, 7.30pm Colyer-Fergusson Hall
Featuring instruments carved using only natural frozen ice from the lakes. thegulbenkian.co.uk
Ballet Black: Shadows
Tue 18 Nov, 7.30pm
Marlowe Theatre
Cassa Pancho’s award-winning neo-classical ballet company presents a double bill of new work. marlowetheatre.com
Bemix Pop-Up Cafe
Tue 18 Nov & Tue 16 Dec, 12pm-2pm
Westgate Hall
Enjoy tasty fare and support adults with and without learning difficulties develop catering skills. westgatehall.org
Disco for Grown-Ups
Fri 21 Nov, 6.30pm
Westgate Hall
Boogie the night away to 70s disco, 80s pop and 90s dance classics. westgatehall.org
Charity Arts Evening Fri 21 Nov, 7pm-9pm
Lilford Gallery
An evening of music, poetry, art and storytelling in aid of Rising Sun and East Kent Mind. lilfordgallery.com
Handel’s Messiah by Candlelight Sat 22 Nov, 7.30pm
Canterbury Cathedral
An intimate presentation of some of Handel’s most enduring music. canterburyfestival.co.uk
Canterbury Symphony Orchestra: This Heavenly Life Sun 23 Nov, 6pm
Colyer-Fergusson Hall
Featuring Krish Parthiban, Canterbury Young Musician of the Year. thegulbenkian.co.uk
Vintage Superstore Kilo Sale Sun 23 Nov, 10am-4pm
Westgate Hall
Planet-friendly partywear and winter wardrobe. westgatehall.org
Festive Shop & Craft Thu 27 Nov 6.30-9pm
Happy & Glorious, Burgate
10% off, fizz, nibbles, mini workshop, complimentary gift wrapping and more. happyglorious.co.uk
Royal School of Needlework:
Robin Design
Sat 29 Nov, 10am-4pm
Community Studio Cathedral Visitor Centre
Embroider a decoration inspired by the James I Charter issued to Canterbury in 1608. canterbury-cathedral.org
Leon String Quartet + Workshop Jazz Collective
Thu 27 Nov, 8pm Fruitworks
Collaboration and experimentation with some of the region’s best performer-composers fruitworks.co
Sophie McCartney: One Foot in the Rave
Fri 28 Nov, 8pm Gulbenkian Theatre
Snow White and The Seven Dwarfs
Fri 28 Nov‐Sun 11 Jan
Marlowe Theatre
2025’s fun-filled fairy-tale pantomime, with lavish sets, fantastic music, beautiful costumes, hilarity, magic and mayhem! marlowetheatre.com
Storytime with Santa
Sat 29 Nov-Sun 21 Dec, 11.30am Fenwick
Includes milk and cookies, special photo moment and a gift! fenwick.co.uk/events
Plate Decorating Workshop
Sat 29 Nov-Sun 21 Dec
Fenwick
Turn a plate into a masterpiece to keep or gift to someone special. fenwick.co.uk/events
Festive Storytelling
Sat 29 Nov and Sat 6,13 & 20 Dec
Canterbury Cathedral
Join Deborah Hart, from TinyTalk Kent Downs, for family-friendly storytelling. canterbury-cathedral.org
Gregory and Peti’s Star Trail
Sat 29 Nov-Sun 4 Jan
Canterbury Cathedral
A hilarious evening from the awardwinning comedian & bestselling author. thegulbenkian.co.uk
Candlelit Soul
Fri 28 Nov, 7.30pm Coyler-Fergusson Hall
Join East Kent Soul Choirs for a night of festive soul and pop classics by candlelight. thegulbenkian.co.uk
Find all 8 stars in the trail and claim your prize! canterbury-cathedral.org
Canterbury Cathedral
Christmas Drop-in Activities
Sat 29 Nov, 11am-3pm
(free to all in the Viewing Gallery)
Saturdays 6, 13 & 20 Dec, 11am-3pm (free with admission) canterbury-cathedral.org
Antiques, Vintage & Brocante Fair
Sun 30 Nov, 9.30am-4pm
Westgate Hall
Unique and unusual gifts: antique, vintage, memorabilia salvage and more. westgatehall.org
Advent Carol Service
Sun 30 Nov, 5.30pm-6.30pm
Canterbury Cathedral
A beautiful service with music, readings and the lighting of candles. canterbury-cathedral.org
Air Ambulance Charity
KSS Carol Concert
Mon 1 Dec, 7.30pm-8.45pm
Canterbury Cathedral
Candlelight, choral harmony, and heartfelt reflections. aakss.org.uk/candles-at-candlelight
Christmas at the Cathedral Tour
Friday 4, 11, 18 & 22 Dec, 11.15am-12.30pm
Canterbury Cathedral
Fascinating facts from Christmas throughout history. canterbury-cathedral.org
Festive Wines Tasting
Thu 4 Dec & Thu 18 Dec, 7pm-9pm
Corkk, Burgate
Wines to gift and savour, with expert pairing advice. corkk.co.uk
Festive Stained Glass Windows Tour
Fridays 5,12 & 19 Dec, 11.15am-12.30pm
Canterbury Cathedral
From medieval to modern, with a focus on windows depicting the Nativity Story. canterbury-cathedral.org
Christmas Show: Dear Santa
Sat 6-13 Dec
Gulbenkian Theatre
See P26-27
From the author of the well-loved children’s book Dear Zoo, Rod Campbell thegulbenkian.co.uk
Chorus & Orchestra Concert
Autumn
Sat 6 Dec, 7.30pm
Colyer-Fergusson Hall
Includes Vivaldi’s Gloria, Tomlinson’s Cinderella Suite and the Polar Express concert-suite. thegulbenkian.co.uk
Canterbury Record Fair
Sat 6 Dec & Sat 10 Jan, 9.30am-3.30pm
Westgate Hall
A treasure trove of vinyl and CDs. westgatehall.org
St Nicholas Family Service
Sun 7 Dec, 5.30pm-6.15pm
Canterbury Cathedral
All are welcome to this joyful celebration of the story of St Nicholas. canterbury-cathedral.org
Dickens on Respectability and Englishness
Tue 9 Dec, 6.15pm-8.30pm
St Andrew’s Church
An entertaining talk and readings from Malcolm Andrews in aid of Canterbury Food Bank. p.f.taylor-gooby kent.ac.uk to book
Christmas Swingalong
Wed 10 Dec, 5.15pm
Colyer-Fergusson Hall
The University Big Band, conducted by Ian Swatman, returns with its annual festive cracker. thegulbenkian.co.uk
RBO Cinema Season :
The Nutcracker
Wed 10 Dec, 7.15pm (live) & Sun 14 Dec, 2pm (encore)
Curzon Westgate
Watch Tchaikovsky’s classic from the comfort of the Curzon. curzon.com/venues/ canterbury-westgate
Sleeping Beauty
Wed 10 Dec-Sat 3 Jan 2025
Malthouse Theatre
A West End cast, glittering sets and costumes and side-splitting comedy. malthousetheatre.co.uk
Christmas Party Night
Thu 11 Dec, 6.30pm
Westgate Hall
Get together with other party-goers for delicious food, drinks and dancing. westgatehall.org
Hare and Tortoise
Fri 12-Wed 31 Dec
Marlowe Studio
A charming adaptation of the fable for 3yrs+ with live music and delightful characters. marlowetheatre.com
Late Night Shopping
Sat 13 Dec 10am-8pm
Christmas Market & selected shops
Get your Christmas list ticked off and make an evening of it in the city!
Salvation Army Band
Sat 13 Dec, 10am-1pm
By Fenwick and Urban Outfitters
The much-loved sound of Christmas. facebook.com/ CanterburySalvationArmy
Canterbury Postcard and Collectors Fair
Sat 13 Dec, 9am-4pm
Westgate Hall
Perfect presents for collectors: stamps, coins, toys, books, and more.
westgatehall.org
Salvation Army
Community Carol Concert
Sun 14 Dec, 4pm
Salvation Army, Whitehorse Lane
Featuring special guests including the Lord Mayor and Lady Mayoress. salvationarmy.org.uk/canterbury
Festival of Carols with Living Nativity
Sun 14 Dec, 5.30pm-6.30pm
Canterbury Cathedral
Music and readings with a nativity scene of adults and children from the congregation. canterbury-cathedral.org
Friends’ Carol Service
Mon 15 Dec, 7-8pm
The Nave, Canterbury Cathedral
The Cathedral bells ring out to greet you at this friendly traditional service. canterbury-cathedral.org
Demelza House Carol Service
‘Celebration of Christmas’ Mon 16 Dec, 7.30pm-9pm
Canterbury Cathedral
An annual carol service to raise money for Demelza House Children’s Hospice. demelza.org.uk/events
Canterbury Choral Society Family Carols Wed 17 Dec, 7pm-8.30pm
Canterbury Cathedral canterburychoral.co.uk
Scrooge Live
Thu 18 Dec, 7.30pm
Gulbenkian Theatre
The classic 1951 film with a newly orchestrated live score performed by the three-piece FB Pocket Orchestra. thegulbenkian.co.uk
See P26-27
Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol Tue 16-Wed 17 Dec, 7.30pm Gulbenkian Theatre
Vincent Franklin (The Thick of It, Happy Valley) brings the classic tale to life. thegulbenkian.co.uk
Philharmonia Orchestra: Brass at Christmas Thu 18 Dec, 7.30pm
Marlowe Theatre
An uplifting evening of seasonal music. marlowetheatre.com
Mint a Roman Coin Sat 20 Dec-Sun 4 Jan
Canterbury Roman Museum
Kids can mint their own replica coin - a great gift idea! canterburyromanmuseum.co.uk
Come and Sing Carols with Orchestra
Sat 20 Dec, 1pm, performance at 6pm
Colyer-Fergusson Hall
An event bringing together keen singers to rehearse and perform carols a cappella, with piano and with full orchestra. thegulbenkian.co.uk
Albion Christmas Band
Sat 20 Dec, 7.30pm
Gulbenkian Theatre
Their classic seasonal mixture of carols, spoken word and humorous readings. thegulbenkian.co.uk
Canterbury Cathedral Carol Services
Tue 23 & Wed 24 Dec, 5.30pm-7pm
A highlight of the Cathedral’s year, with music by their world-famous choir. canterbury-cathedral.org
Family Crib Service
Wed 24 Dec, 10am
Canterbury Cathedral
A short, joyful service for children and families with music and carols. canterbury-cathedral.org
Open Air Community Carol Singing
Wed 24 Dec, 6.15pm
Outside Marlowe Arcade
Join the fun and sing ‘Canterbury’s own carol’ with the crowds! A collection will be taken in aid of the Lord Mayor’s Christmas Gift Fund. christmasgiftfund.co.uk/ canterbury-events.php
Midnight Mass
Wed 24 Dec, 11pm-12.15am
Canterbury Cathedral
The traditional communion service marking the dawn of Christmas Day. canterbury-cathedral.org
Christmas Day Services
Thu 25 Dec
Canterbury Cathedral
9.15am: Said Morning Prayer
11am: Christmas Eucharist 3pm: Evensong with carols canterbury-cathedral.org
New Year’s Eve Gala Wed 31 Dec, 6.30pm-1am
Canterbury Cathedral Lodge
A five-course gala dinner, DJ, dancing and a Scottish Piper at midnight. canterburycathedrallodge.org
Scan QR code to see the latest event listings or visit canterbury.co.uk
Follow MyCanterbury on Instagram and Facebook for activities, offers and promotions in the city centre.
Tue 16 & Wed 17 Dec, 7.30pm
We’re spoilt for choice when it comes to live theatre in Canterbury - with awardwinning venues, West End casts and exciting new productions coming through all year-round. Take your seats for an outstanding programme of shows in the city over the Christmas season, including classic panto, fun for kids and brilliant alternative offerings for a fresh festive twist!
Marlowe Theatre
Fri 28 Nov–Sun 11 Jan
Starring an amazing cast including Sarah Hadland (Miranda, Strictly, Horrible Histories), Phil Gallagher (Mister Maker), Marlowe legend Ben Roddy (winner of Best Dame 2024), Marc Pickering and Mia Kobayashi, this magical family extravaganza promises to be packed with unforgettable thrills, stunning costumes, lavish sets, fabulous music and hilarious jokes. A note of warning though - there "may" be water guns and you "may" get wet. marlowetheatre.com
Contact the venues directly for details of dedicated performances created to enhance the experience for audience members with neurodiverse or physical requirements.
Marlowe Studio
Fri 12–Wed 31 Dec
A charming adaptation of Aesop’s fable, brought to life with fun, live music, unforgettable songs and delightful characters. It’s a joyful tale of friendship, music and one very famous race – perfect for families and children. marlowetheatre.com
Who’s the fairest of them all..
Malthouse Theatre
Wed 10 Dec–Sat 3 Jan
Canterbury is very lucky to have not one, but TWO fantastic pantos! Sleeping Beauty features a dazzling West End cast, glittering sets, and costumes and side-splitting comedy for the whole family to enjoy, all in the gorgeous surroundings of the Malthouse Theatre. Relaxed Performances on Sun 14 Dec at 4pm and Wed 17 Dec at 5pm. malthousetheatre.co.uk
Step Off the Beaten Sleigh:
Alternative Christmas
Entertainment at the Gulbenkian
A perfect first theatre trip with Santa!
Dear Santa
Gulbenkian Theatre
Sat 6-Sat 13 Dec
From the creator of the beloved Dear Zoo, Rod Campbell’s Dear Santa comes to life on stage this Christmas. Santa wants to find the perfect present for Sarah, but it takes a little trial and error (and help from his cheeky Elf!) before he gets it just right. This festive treat is a magical introduction to theatre for children aged 2+ and over, filled with laughter, surprises and plenty of Christmas sparkle. After the show, little ones can meet Santa in his grotto and receive a special gift—making it an unforgettable festive outing for the whole family.
thegulbenkian.co.uk
A new twist on a Christmas Classic
A Christmas Carol
Gulbenkian Theatre
Tue 16-Wed 17 Dec
Step into Dickens’ timeless festive tale as Vincent Franklin (The Thick of It, Happy Valley, Cucumber) brings Scrooge, Marley and the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future vividly to life. In this brand-new adaptation of Dickens’ own performance script, audiences will be chilled by ghostly encounters and warmed by the story’s redemptive heart. With Franklin performing more than twenty extraordinary characters, this is A Christmas Carol as you’ve never seen it before—funny, moving and brimming with Christmas spirit. A perfect festive treat! thegulbenkian.co.uk
Camp it up for Christmas!
Gulbenkian Theatre
Fri 19 Dec
Forget tinsel and tradition—The LipSinkers bring their chaotic cocktail of drag, comedy, pathos and politics to the stage this Christmas. Expect punk energy, lip-synced anarchy and Christmas knits in a show that’s equal parts cabaret and catastrophe. With nearly twenty years of hoofing, goofing and glorious disruption under their belts, The LipSinkers remain one of the most subversive and side-splitting acts on the cabaret circuit. Alternative festive fun at its finest—definitely not your usual Christmas show! thegulbenkian.co.uk
Based in the heart of Canterbury, Tiny Tim’s Tearoom is a characterful building with an olde-worlde feel. A popular spot where you can while away an afternoon and sample a range of delicious sweet treats, pastries and cooked meals, and a brewed-to-perfection pot of your tea of choice .
Offering a quintessentially British ambience, Tiny Tim's is great for intimate lunch gatherings with friends and family. The tearoom suits all tastes with savoury treats like a full English breakfast, fishcakes, soups and the chef’s signature quiche served alongside handmade cakes, scones and other baked goods. Tiny Tim’s highly popular afternoon tea is served all day, comprising sweet and savoury delights including finger sandwiches, as well as freshly baked scones and a choice of tea or coffee from the extensive range.
Corkk the award-winning wine shop and bar in Burgate is a passionate supporter of local wines, working closely with a wide range of highly skilled, small-scale Kentish winemakers and vineyards including Chartham, Heppington in Lower Hardres, Simpsons in Barham and Cary Wine Estate in Faversham.
The combination of chalky soil and warm climate creates the perfect terroir for still and sparkling white and rose winesTaittinger, the famed Champagne House has established its first English winery, Domaine Evremond in Chilham, for this reason and you can find their wine in Corkk’s curated selection. For events including tasting evenings, pop-up suppers and live jazz nights.
Scan the QR code or visit corkk.co.uk →
Paxton & Whitfield Canterbury’s local specialist cheese shop in Palace Street, loves to champion Kentish and south-eastern produce, such as the award-winning Cheddar-style Winterdale Shaw, handmade with milk from cows that graze the lush, chalky North Downs; and Graceburn, a marinated soft cow’s cheese using Kentish Rapeseed Oil.
The friendly staff are passionate about their produce and very happy to advise on the best way to enjoy their cheeses with wines, charcuterie and special occasion menus. Cheesemongers since 1797 and by Royal Appointment since 1850, the artisan cheese shop also offers a wide selection of delicious accompaniments as well as stylish branded homeware.
Scan the QR code or visit paxtonandwhitfield.co.uk for more information →
supporting an environmentally conscious, minimalwaste lifestyle. Their mission is to make planet-friendly shopping accessible to as many people as possible. You’ll find plenty of Canterbury and Kentish produce in their gorgeous store, carefully selected for quality and sustainable credentials, including honey, peanut butter, beer and cider, apple and pear juice, cookies, eggs, oils, jams, sauerkraut, kombucha and more.
Take a container or purchase one in-store and you can stock up on store cupboard and household essentials with minimal carbon footprint. Buy just what you need by weight and volume in relaxed, friendly surroundings with easy-to-use dispensers, scales and scanners. The team is always happy to help with refilling from the pumps and dispensers if you’re new to this innovative shopping experience.
↑Scan the QR code or visit canterburybrewers-distillers.co.uk for more information
↑Scan the QR code or visit therefillerycanterbury.co.uk
The Foundry is the home of family-run Canterbury Brewers & Distillers, a multi awardwinning champion of local produce on Stour Street. The team makes their food, spirits and beer on-site from scratch where possible. They use barley and grain from the south-east, fresh Kentish green hops, wild yeast from St.Augustine’s Abbey and even offer a limited edition gin made with herbs grown in the medieval garden of Canterbury Cathedral.
The Foundry is always pushing forward with new sustainable projects - they now use their spent whiskey grain to grow their own Blue Oyster and Black Pearl mushrooms, serving them up in delicious home-made fare on their menu. Head to their gorgeous Victorian Foundry building and treat yourself to a delicious meal, order a tasting flight or head behind the scenes for a tour of the brewing and distilling process with the team.
Did you know that Canterbury is made up of different areas and quarters? They’re all just a few minutes’ walk from each other, and each has their own character and history.
Easily spotted with its red banners, The King’s Mile is a colourful collection of streets alongside the Cathedral and King’s School. It’s abundant with handcrafted jewellery, artisan produce, arts, games, clothing, food and drink. thekingsmile.org.uk
The historic heart of Canterbury leads from the doorstep of the Cathedral and the Buttermarket up to the top of Burgate. The picturesque quarter is home to independent shops, bars and restaurants. instagram.com/ cathedralquartercanterbury
From the Norman castle ruins up to the High Street, the Castle Quarter is a rich mix of thriving creative businesses, galleries, independent makers, bars, restaurants and the city’s own brewery, The Foundry. thecastlequarter.com
The city’s bustling thoroughfare is lined with national and independent businesses in beautiful buildings, with plenty of cafés, pubs and restaurants for mid-shopping pit-stops. Halfway down is The Beaney House of Art & Knowledge, home to Bagpuss, seasonal exhibitions and the city’s Visitor Information Desk.
You’ll find major high street brands here, headed at the top of the town by Fenwick and comprising a huge range of the UK’s leading fashion and lifestyle retailers. The area hosts regular crafts and food markets and fun seasonal events for all ages. whitefriars.co.uk
and foodie quarter: from Canterbury West Station through historic St Dunstan's and the Westgate Towers, past the lovely Westgate Gardens, through to the lower High Street and up to the Marlowe Theatre and Westgate Hall. instagram.com/canterburywestend
The Riverside is all about fun with friends and family. With a five-screen cinema, escape rooms, cafés, bars, takeaway pizza, restaurants and gaming hub, it’s perfect for days and nights out. Its leafy central square is a great venue for regular pop-up events – including an outdoor cinema all summer. Below the square are 220 parking spaces. canterburyriverside.co.uk
Herne Bay is ready to shine this festive season, with sparkling lights, unique gifts, and plenty of Christmas cheer to discover by the coast. Whether you’re shopping local, meeting friends for a winter treat, or enjoying one of the Bay’s festive events, there’s something magical waiting for everyone.
Back by popular demand, Buy in the Bay’s Advent Windows trail returns from 1–24 December. Each day, a new festive window display will be revealed across town on Buy in the Bay’s Instagram grid, celebrating the creativity of local businesses. Wander through the Bay and share your favourites on Instagram using #AdventWindowsHerneBay, it’s the perfect way to explore while supporting independent businesses.
Festive events for all ages
Mark your calendar for the fabulous Herne Bay Christmas Lights Switch On and shopping event on Sunday 16th November from 1pm-6pm. This is a fun, family event designed to support the wonderful shops, eateries, local artisan and craft traders in the Bay. Kick start your Christmas shopping and meet Santa at the Seaside Museum during the event, bookable in advance: tickets - £8 per child available from the Old Sweet Shop.
Christmas wouldn’t be complete without yet another opportunity to visit Santa. Santa’s Grotto on the Pier is open on 29 & 30 November, 6, 7, 13 and 14 December, with a chance for little ones to meet the big man himself. The pier’s festive food stalls and artisan shops in the retail village are also a must-visit for Christmas treats.
Don’t miss the jolliest jog of the year, Santas on the Run is returning to Herne Bay seafront on Sunday 14
Scan to browse the shops, bars and restaurants of Herne Bay
Shop, eat, gift local Herne Bay is full of inspiration for Christmas shopping from home and lifestyle to fashion, toys and books for those special gifts, or pick up a unique one-off gift from our vintage and artisan stores, brimming with treasures. Herne Bay is known for fantastic food and drink, from cosy cafés, tearooms and restaurants –an array of places to suit all tastes and budgets allowing you to pause and soak up the festive atmosphere. So, wrap up warm, bring your shopping list, and enjoy the sparkle of the Bay. Supporting local has never felt so magical.
Canterbury’s rich history of theatre is a source of great pride among locals, as well as providing significant pulling power for visitors to the city.
For generations, the focal point of Canterbury’s dramatic arts had been the Marlowe Theatre, with its namesake, sixteenth century poet and playwright Christopher Marlowe, having attended The King’s School. But the seeds of the city’s theatrical tradition were arguably sown much earlier, with Geoffrey Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales.
For some, the first encounter with Chaucer’s work may have come as a relatively archaic and impenetrable part of a school syllabus, ranking alongside the study of Marlowe and Shakespeare. However, those who conquer these works at a young age often retain a lifelong affection for them, while others rediscover them later in life.
In Chaucer’s case, local relevance provides added incentive to revisit the Canterbury Tales, and modern translations from the original Middle English also make the text much more accessible. Perhaps surprisingly, twenty-first century readers are also likely to find that the premise, themes, and humour of the Canterbury Tales still resonate today.
In terms of premise, the Canterbury Tales depicts a group of pilgrims travelling from London to Canterbury who, as a way of passing the time, each agree to share a story. It is, in short, the kind of ‘road trip’ device that is commonly used in contemporary books and cinema, complete with a disparate group of characters who are thrown together and rub along with varying degrees of amusement, fondness, and animosity.
Many readers of the Canterbury Tales will also recognise and empathise with the stories, lives, and concerns of the individual characters. The themes that emerge, from betrayal and financial woes to relationships and love affairs, are still familiar and relatable today.
It is also true that Chaucer’s characters display a sense of humour which, in the modern translation, is easy to appreciate and enjoy. Sometimes the pilgrims’ stories are mocked by the other characters. Occasionally the humour becomes farcical and bawdy. But a sense of fun and mischief certainly pervades Chaucer’s work.
Seen as a whole, it is surely the timelessness of the Canterbury Tales, with its human drama, social commentary, and contrasting perspectives, that makes the text so striking to a contemporary reader.
The Tales provide a sharp reminder that our underlying ambitions, hopes, and preoccupations remain little changed from those of Medieval people, despite the obvious differences in material conditions.
Viewed from a legal perspective, it is noteworthy that this core human experience, punctuated by significant life events, is also reflected in our own range of services. Girlings, for example, provides help and guidance to clients at meaningful moments in their own life journeys – whether that involves writing a Will, helping with a divorce or house move, resolving an employment dispute, or supporting the development of a business project.
With this in mind, and with our deep roots in Canterbury, Kent, and across the South East, we recognise that the concerns of today’s clients are perhaps not so very different to those of Chaucer’s fabled pilgrims some 600 years ago.
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Have you sampled the delicious delights of Café St Pierre on St Peter’s Street? Known for its excellent coffee and mouth-watering pastries, generously filled baguettes and cakes, the much-loved French café celebrates its th anniversary this year. 30th Anniversary
The café’s convivial atmosphere and handy location between the Westgate Towers and Canterbury Cathedral make it a perfect pitstop for regulars and visitors alike. Café St Pierre is easy to spot –look for the billowing Tricolore flag above the fabulous window display of colourful Citroen 2CV models.
The family-owned café was opened in 1995 by Michel and Yvonne Piquet, who met and married in London while working at Notting Hill’s glamorous Monsieur Thompson restaurant. The couple went on to set up a French bistro in Hammersmith: La Plume De Ma Tante, which saw many celebrities pop in from the nearby BBC rehearsal rooms.
As their daughter grew up, Michel and Yvonne considered leaving London for greener pastures and came across an advert in Exchange & Mart for the empty St Peter’s Street building. Inspired by a friend’s ‘point chaud’ (hot food) business, Michel and Yvonne decided to make the move to Canterbury and open a French café there.
The opening day had its hiccups – not least the delivery of cups being stuck at Heathrow Airport! But the food and drink were a big hit and Café St Pierre, the first French café in Canterbury city centre, was born. The café was a family business in every sense of the word. Michel and Yvonne’s daughter and grandchildren have all worked there, growing up with the luxury of breakfast in the café before school! In 2021, the reins were handed to current manager Alan Bromyard, when Michel and Yvonne decided it was time to retire from the running of the business.
1995 - 2025
Today Café St Pierre is firmly established as a mainstay of the city. In the summer, people like to relax and revive in the lovely little suntrap garden at the back. In the winter, the café is a frequent high-scorer in the Christmas Window competition,
with its skilful and funny displays. Whatever the time of year, whether you’re shopping, sight-seeing or socialising, the cafe is a warm and welcoming place to enjoy deliciously authentic French fare, including patisserie, croque-monsieur, tarte aux fruits, quiche and plenty more.
Bienvenue et bon appétit!
Celebrating 30 years in business, this
o ers generously-filled, innovative baguettes, quiches, salads, cakes and pastries plus family-owned cafe near Westgate Towers
• To be enjoyed in a friendly atmosphere
• Try the typical French ‘Petit dejeuner’ served till noon
• Open 7 days a week - 8am - 6pm (Sun - 9am - 5.30pm)
• Outdoor seating in the wonderful garden
• Take-away service available A bientôt! Alan, Maria and the team
Since the Spring, we are delighted to welcome to the city:
AT Patisserie
Palace Street
Azucar Treats offers delicious pastries and desserts.
➜ azucartreats.com
Brook Taverner
Marlowe Arcade
British menswear brand known for classic tailoring and smart casual fashion.
➜ brooktaverner.co.uk
Café Marrakech
Rosemary Lane
Rich, soulful, vibrant Moroccan cuisine.
➜ cafemarrakech.co.uk
Chiya
St Peter’s Street
Super cool matcha café with a cosy vibe.
➜ Instagram: @chiya_uk
Franc Northgate
Classical French cooking using the best Kentish produce.
➜ franc-canterbury.com
Felons Coffeehouse & Wine Bar
St Peter’s Street
A new coffeehouse and wine bar with views of the Westgate Tower.
➜ onepoundlane.co.uk
HMV
St Margaret’s Street
Iconic music and entertainment retailer has returned to Canterbury.
➜ HMV.com
Little Blue Finch
Marlowe Arcade
Handpicked fashion, gifts, and home décor with a personal touch.
➜ littlebluefinch.co.uk
Miss Millie’s
St Peter’s Street
A legendary fried chicken brand launching its first Kent branch!
➜ missmillies.co.uk
Mowchi
St Peter’s Street
A cosy cafes are inspired by East Asia’s vibrant street food culture.
➜ www.mowchi.me/
Pelegrims
St Margaret Street
Sustainable skincare using vineyard grape extracts, from Kent’s winemakers.
➜ pelegrims.com
Phoenix Wellness
Palace Street
A local health store offering premium vitamins, minerals, and wellness products.
➜ canterburysupplements.co.uk
ProCook
Whitefriars
Cookware and kitchenware specialists offering high-quality tools for home chefs.
➜ procook.co.uk
Sona
St Margaret Street
Rooftop restaurant serving bold seasonal dishes with city views.
➜ socialitecanterbury.com
Space NK (Opening November) Whitefriars
Luxury beauty retailer with curated skincare, makeup, and fragrance collections.
➜ spacenk.com
Stellar Beauty
St Peter’s Street
Beauty salon offering styling and treatments.
Thai Orchid
Riverside
Serving a variety of fresh authentic Thai food dishes.
➜ Instagram: @ thaiorchidcanterbury
The John Burgate
A quirky underground cocktail bar in a former public toilet with classic drinks and vibrant vibes.
➜ thejohncanterbury.co.uk
The Soap Shop
Palace Street
Handmade natural cosmetics, soaps, and gifts crafted with skinfriendly ingredients.
➜ glamournatural.co.uk
The Vein Centre Whitefriars
Specialist clinic offering walk-in, minimally invasive treatments for varicose and thread veins.
➜ veincentre.com
Urban Outfitters (opening November)
Whitefriars
Lifestyle store offering streetwear, vintage styles, and home décor.
➜ urbanoutfitters.com
White Stuff
The Parade
The casual clothing, accessories, and homeware brand returns to Canterbury!
➜ whitestuff.com
Local Business Expansions!
Mountain Warehouse
Moved from The Parade to St George’s Street
Dice and Destiny
Moved from The Borough to Northgate
Om Studio
Moved from Palace Street to Burgate
Skilful, innovative and attentive hairdressing are the hallmarks of Doodas Hair Salon in St Peter’s Street – and have been since the day it opened the doors of its stunning period building in . Now celebrating its th anniversary, the salon has built up a loyal following of regular clients across all ages and backgrounds.
The salon has glamorous roots: the owners, Jez and David, met in a band in the 1980s, touring with the likes of Shalamar and Kool & The Gang. David was already an acclaimed hairdresser, having been awarded British Men’s Hairdressers Guild Champion. Jez was in the altogether different world of aeronautics engineering. Inspired by David, Jez switched industries and trained as a hairdresser, completing his apprenticeship in Maidstone.
Jez and David opened their salon there in 1982, and the Canterbury city centre salon followed just three years later. Soon afterwards, the partnership’s Midas touch saw them sweeping the first eight places of the London Southern Championships in one year.
A key element of the Doodas experience is personalised hair care beyond the salon. Their focus is on listening to the client, working closely with people to optimise their own routines at home so they look fabulous all the time - not just when they
Doodas offers specialist colour services, holding both the Weller Master Colour Award and L’Oreal Colour Expert Degrees. Whether you want subtle or sensational, they’ll take time to discuss your options over a thorough consultation. They also offer bridal hair, extensions, perming and smoothing – whether it’s special occasion hair or regular styling, they’re happy to chat with you about what you want.
Doodas is also a firm believer in supporting the development of their stylists – many former employees have gone on to start their own businesses, including one in Australia!
Check out their services at doo-das.com or scan the QR code
Christmas is not only magical but steeped in traditions, some older than others but all part of the wonderful spirit that makes Whitstable and Tankerton perfect for shopping, dining and exploring over the festive season.
Independent boutiques for partywear, toy shops for the little ones, beauty and pampering products, bespoke jewellery and artwork for lasting gifts - you can find all types of shops here. So many, in fact, that we suggest an early start to complete your Christmas list! The Christmas table is taken care of too, with kitchen and homeware stores and, of course, delicious produce from the local butchers, grocers, delis and wine shops.
Restaurants, cafes and bars in Whitstable and Tankerton cover all budgets and tastes. From coffee and a pastry or a light meal from the market huts by the quay to a hearty meal at a cosy pub or beautiful restaurant, the hardest part is choosing where! The choice is huge, whether it’s locally sourced oysters or fish and chips along the beach or one of the many specialist eateries including Caribbean, Italian, Indian, Thai and Turkish.
Christmas lights through the towns
Whitstable from the Harbour to the top of the High Street Saturday 29 November The festivities begin with live music in the harbour from 1pm on Deadmans Corner. Make your own lanterns in the South Quay Shed and sip a mulled wine. Hungry? Between the South Quay Shed, Market Stall and West Whelks there are over a dozen foodie places to choose from.
The Christmas tree countdown and switch-on is at 4.30pm, which gives you plenty of time to start or even finish your Christmas shopping in the town. The harbour’s iconic Fisherman’s Christmas tree will also be lit - a wonderful tradition constructed with fishing baskets, buoys and netting.
The lantern parade starts once the official tree is lit up, making its way up the high street and magically switching the festive lights on as it moves along, accompanied with Christmas songs. Please note: the high street and surrounding streets are closed between 4.30pm and 6pm Carry on the Christmas atmosphere into the evening - pop into one of the town pubs or book ahead to secure your seats at a restaurant. If you can’t make the big switch-on day, come another day and enjoy all that Whitstable has to offer. The market is open Friday, Saturday and Sundays and the shops will be open right up to Christmas Eve.
The castle’s official Christmas light switchon is Saturday 29 November at 4.30pm (approx) along with a Christmas shopping event - browse their festive stalls between 2pm-9pm. Father Christmas arrives at the castle on Sunday 30 November at 3pm - if you miss this visit, he usually pops back a few times before the big day.
For the bigger people, whether you fancy a Michael Buble tribute dinner, wreathmaking with mince pies and mulled wine or just fancy a festive lunch or afternoon tea in the Orangery, be sure to book yourself in. The castle will be lit and decorated for Christmas until after New Year so it’s the perfect spot for a selfie in that Christmas jumper. For details or to book call 01227 281726.
The Talk of Tankerton is a dedicated team of volunteers who arrange for Christmas trees and festive lights across Tankerton’s high street every year. You’ll find lots of lovely shops and restaurants here tooincluding The Bears Trading Company, Quite Contrary with beautiful gifts and homeware and Kaffeine with gorgeous items for the home, alongside their delicious coffee.
There will be Christmas Artisan markets on Sunday 16 November and Sunday 14 December, perfect for finding unique gifts.
To browse the Whitstable and Tankerton shopping directory scan the QR code here
Canterbury has a thriving specialist cuisine scene. Here’s just a taste of what’s on offer –and you won’t even need your passport!
• Mister Miyagi Orange St
• Tamago Northgate
• Happy Samurai Butchery Lane
• Iro Sushi High St
• Kokoro High St
• Wagamama Longmarket
• Mittsu Sushi St Peter's Street
• Chingah Habesha Northgate
• Nando’s St Peter’s St
• Cafe Marrakech Rosemary Lane Thailand
• Thai Orchid Riverside Vietnam
• Pho Burgate
To explore more of the city’s gastronomic delights, check out our Foodie Night Out blog: Scan Here
• Posillipo The Borough
• Pinocchio’s Castle Street
• Prezzo Italian High St
• ASK Pizza High St
• Pizza Express Best Lane
• Franco Manca High St
• Zizzi St Peter’s St
• Wildwood St Peter’s St
• The Fig Orange St
Cafe Du Soleil
Stour St
Olive Grove
Best Lane
Olimitzi Palace St
France
Côte Longmarket
Franc Northgate
Germany
• German Doner Kebab
St George’s St Turkey
• Mezze Bar & Grill
St Peter’s St
• A La Turka
St Dunstan’s St
• Cosy Club
St Margaret’s St
• The Ivy
The Parade
• The Old Weavers
St Peter’s St
• SONA
St Margaret's St
• Refectory Kitchen
St Dunstan’s St
• El Sol Sun St
Mexico
• Las Iguanas Longmarket
• Café des Amis
St Dunstan’s St
• Tacos Locos
• La Cabana Palace St India
• The Cook’s Tale
Beer Cart Lane
• Sekkoya High St
• Kashmir Tandoori Palace St Argentina
St Peter’s St
Plan Burrito
St Margaret’s St
Tortilla High St Romania
• Buenos Aires Nights Argentine Steakhouse
Mercery Lane USA
• Chuck and Blade Burgers Sun St
• Five Guys
St Peter’s St
• Notorious BRG Castle St
One of Canterbury’s cultural landmarks celebrates a major milestone this year. It’s the th anniversary of Lilford Gallery, the independent gallery run by David and Dawn Lilford, based across two beautiful city centre buildings in Palace Street & Castle Street.
The Lilford Gallery has built up a remarkable collection of works since its inception in 2000. A browse through their catalogue reads like a Who’s Who of art royalty, from internationally renowned artists and sculptors such as Banksy, Tracy Emin, Billy Childish, Grayson Perry, Salvador Dali and David Hockney to local artists including Anna Allworthy, James Bland and Adam De Ville
Lilford Gallery began life as Castle Arts, opened by David in Castle Street after he swapped retail management for the world of art he’d always loved. Many of the artists at the launch are now longstanding friends of the gallery. Renamed Lilford Framing & Gallery in 2010, the gallery is run by Dawn and offers a huge range of original art, as well as in-house framing and Annie Designs, a jewellery and silversmith studio and workshop.
Lilford Gallery expanded in 2012 when David opened the Palace Street gallery in the Kings Mile, the city’s creative quarter, enabling the gallery to work with a wider range of artists. Passion, expertise and a warm welcome are key to the Lilford Gallery ethos – everyone who steps inside is made to feel included and inspired, whether they’re brand new to art or a seasoned collector.
David and Dawn have brought art to Canterbury in inventive ways. ‘Play Me I’m Yours’, a joint project with Luke Jerram in 2015, saw ten pianos placed around the city for people to play. The same collaboration led to a Glass Microbiology exhibition in Canterbury Cathedral. In 2016, David hosted the Canterbury Pottery Throwdown with Cherry Tewfik.
In 2021 Lilford Gallery hosted an exhibition celebrating the art of Ian Dury, with a guest talk by his daughter Jemima.
The Lilford Galleries have exciting plans for the festive season and 2026. Hot on the heels of their ‘Travels with Bowie’ photographic exhibition by Geoff MacCormack, they are introducing brand new work from artists such as Carlie Curnow, inspired by visits to some of the world’s wildest places; and Gerry Buxton, part of a new generation of print-makers combining cutting-edge digital illustration and traditional screenprinting.
Pop in to either gallery and say hi to the friendly teams!
Local lawyers, here for life’s important chapters
Two Canterbury offices and 3,700 clients who have shared their experiences on ReviewSolicitors.
Practical advice for you, your family and your business. From moving home and planning ahead to resolving disputes and growing a business, our Canterbury lawyers are here when it matters. Castle Street 01227 8134000 St George’s Place 01227 207000 boysandmaughan.co.uk
Star of Canterbury’s Christmas Window Trail 2025 in LEGO® form, the Christmas tree is an instant icon of the season. Thought to have been brought to England in the 1790s by King George III’s wife, Charlotte, from her native Germany, it was made popular by Queen Victoria and Albert, who began the tradition of decorating the tree in exuberant style. Since then, the Christmas tree has been immortalised in songs, films, paintings, even emojis. We took a trip around the city’s shops to celebrate the ever-popular evergreen in different ways:
01 Macrame Christmas Tree Hanging
Handcrafted in Bali, this decoration adds a touch of bohemian charm.
Siesta, Sun St ➜ siestacrafts.co.uk
02 Handmade Real Wax Christmas Tree LED Candle
Create a cosy glow with this candle, available in two sizes: 19cm and 15cm (approx)
Sowley, St Peter’s St ➜ sowley-uk.co.uk
03 Gisela Graham Stoneware Mini Mug
Perfect for a Christmassy hot choc. Little Blue Finch, Marlowe Arcade
➜ littlebluefinch.co.uk
04 Little Wooden Tree
Present topper, hand-painted gift, simple decoration - a very versatile little tree!
Cowling & Wilcox, St George’s St
➜ cowlingandwilcox.com
05 10 Pre-Folded Christmas Tree-Shaped Standing Napkins
No origami skills required - just take them out and pop them on the plates! Lakeland, Longmarket
➜ lakeland.co.uk
06 Polar Bowler Advent Calendar
A fresh take on the traditional idea - build a beautiful decoration throughout December. Whirligig Toys, Sun St
➜ whirligigtoys.co.uk
07 ‘The Christmas Pine’ by Julia Donaldson
A magical story to cuddle up and read together. over a Christmassy hot choc. Waterstones, Rose Lane
➜ waterstones.co.uk
08 Traditional Christmas Tree Garland
A beautiful cut-out garland to stand on a surface or decorate a wall - stylishly simple.
Violet Elizabeth, Burgate
➜ violetelizabeth.com
WIN one of three amazing hampers in time for Christmas! Each hamper is packed with gifts, vouchers, treats and experiences from Canterbury’s fantastic businesses.
925 Silver: Sterling Silver Neckalace
Alberrys: Bottle of Wine or Prosecco & Combo Platter
Café des Amis: Meal for Two Voucher
Canoe Wild: Voucher worth £24
Canterbury Gift Card worth £50
Fitzgerald Jewellers: Pair of Bloom Botanica Tealight Candleholders
Genealogy 1-2-1 Consultation from The Institute of Heraldic & Genealogical Studies
Steven James Hairdressing Voucher
The Foundry BrewPub: Tour & Tasting Experience worth £50
The Sandwich Shop: Meal Voucher
Tiny Tims: Afternoon Tea for Two Voucher
Cafe du Soleil: Meal for Two Voucher
Canterbury Pottery: Christmas Pudding Plate
Canterbury Punting Co: Voucher for a Punting Tour
Chatterbox Café: Lunch & Drink for Two
Happy & Glorious: Mulled Pear & Spices Fragranced Reed Diffuser
Lilford Gallery & Framing: Hand
Embellished Giclée Print worth £250
Owen Hearing: Micro Suction Voucher
Rock Paper Scissors: £60 Art Class Voucher for Adults or Children
Stag Coffee: Bottomless Brunch Voucher
Teastones: Tea Selection
Vinylstore Jr: £30 Voucher
Three lucky winners will be drawn on Friday 12 December to get their goodies in time for Christmas – enter at canterbury.co.uk!
See Terms & Conditions. You must be 18 or over to enter. Hampers will be selected at random.
André Rose: A Piece of Jewellery
Café No 35: £30 Voucher
Camomile Rooms: Voucher for Full Body Hot Stone Treatment
Gulbenkian Theatre: 2 Tickets for ‘A
Christmas Carol’ and 4 Tickets for ‘Dear Santa’
Lost Sheep Coffee: Crate of Iced Coffee
Paxton & Whitfield: Selection of Cheese
Plan Burrito: Meal Deal for Two (2 Drinks, 2 Burritos, 1 Sharing Nacho, 1 Churros)
Quiz Trail: Trail Books for Canterbury, Whitstable & Herne Bay
Siesta: Large Painted Djembe from Bali
SONA: £100 Voucher
The Jolly Christmas Canterbury: Jolly Sailor Gift Pack of Local Beers & Ciders
The Canterbury Gift Card is a brilliant way to treat someone and support local businesses at the same time. You load it with the amount of your choice and they choose where to spend it, from a huge range of over 130 shops , restaurants, cafes and salons across the city.
The Canterbury Gift Card is now available as a digital card, which means it’s easier than ever to gift it to someone special. The e-card is a great choice for people who prefer to pay with their phone. If you like to give a physical card though, don’t worry - these are always available to collect in town and load at home, or order online to send direct.
Buy an e-card: canterburygiftcard.co.uk
Order a physical card to send direct: canterburygiftcard.co.uk
Collect a physical card in town to load at home from:
The Beaney, High St | Wrapped!, Burgate Hampton by Hilton, St Margaret’s St Dice & Destiny, The Borough
Canterbury district is served by Stagecoach South East buses, based at Canterbury City Centre in St George’s Lane CT1 2SY.
Check times, fares and more at stagecoachbus.com or download the Stagecoach Bus App.
Park all day for just £4 per car with up to six passengers, then hop on one of our frequent, low emission buses direct to Canterbury city centre. Plus, by registering online, Canterbury district residents can save 20% across our Park & Ride services and enjoy all day parking for only £3.20. Our three Park & Ride sites are:
• New Dover Rd CT1 3EL
• Wincheap, Ten Perch Rd, CT1 3TQ
• Sturry Rd, CT1 1AD
For more details visit canterbury.gov.uk/parkandride
With Canterbury’s colour-coded car park bands, you can easily plan your journey to avoid congestion and pay less. Plus residents can save 10% in all ANPR car parks in bands 2 and 3 with a parking permit account.
Here are a few insider tips to help you find cheaper parking spots:
If you plan to visit Canterbury through its original medieval gateway in the St Dunstan’s area, park at Station Road West for £1.90 per hour (band 3) and walk through the Westgate Towers like visitors have done for centuries.
For those wishing to start their visit with a trip to the Creative Quarter, or The King’s Mile, you will find parking at £2.70 per hour at Northgate Car Park (band 2) and a lovely walk past some of our finest independent retailers.
And finally, why not park right next to Canterbury Castle (due to re-open in 2026) and enjoy a walk through the Castle Quarter with plenty of shops to visit and quick access to some of our premium retailers – Castle Street multi-storey charges £1.90 per hour (band 3).
For further details visit canterbury.gov.uk/parking
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