IN ASSOCIATION WITH
KENTSTAYCATION
48 Hours in CANTERBURY CONT .
© Visit Kent
CANTERBURY RIVER BOAT TOURS
AFTERNOON You do not have to be a keen historian to feel intrigued by the rich tapestry of Canterbury ’ s past . Discover its history by taking a unique tour to remember guided by an expert at Canterbury River Boat Tours ( www . canterburyrivertours . co . uk ) and delve deep into the stories and events that led the city to be what it is today . As you glide upon the waters of the River Stour sit back and relax as your tour guide takes you under the King ’ s Bridge , one of the oldest working road bridges in Britain and up towards the hidden serenity of the Greyfriars Island , once the home to the Franciscans , one of Canterbury ’ s many religious orders . Pass by ancient buildings such as the sixteenth century Old Weavers ’ House as well as the replica ‘ ducking stool ’, an infamous part of England ’ s long and turbulent history . Glimpse Canterbury ’ s theatrical background as you sail past the Marlowe Theatre and appreciate more of its history steeped in religion , when you spot old Blackfriars ’ Monastery , now a proud extension to the prestigious King ’ s School , which connects onto the scenic and quiet Solly ’ s Orchard .
DINNER Cafe Des Amis ( www . cafedez . com ) is a family run restaurant that opened in 1988 and has been a hit ever since . Sitting right on the banks of the river and serving Mexican cuisine with a Mediterranean perspective , Cafe des Amis has created a menu that draws not only on the exotic and earthy flavours of ancient Mexico , but also the fresh and healthy ingredients from rich Mediterranean heritage , inspired by an innovative Californian approach . Sit back and enjoy the lively and vibrant atmosphere that is bound to be brimming with an infectious cheerful energy and the sound of laughter and flicker of candlelight , as you wait for a meal that is sure to tickle your tastebuds .
DRINKS Canterbury is also known for having a buzzing nightlife and is home to an abundance of bars and nightclubs . With the popularity of cocktails growing ever stronger , the rivalry to serve the best concoction has resulted in some fabulous cocktail menus and bar experiences all over the city . Houdini ’ s Magic Bar ( www . houdinis . co . uk ) will provide you with a spectacular evening to remember hosting over 20 ‘ resident magicians ’ to keep guests entertained as they sip on cocktails that are equally as enchanting . For those looking for a more intimate night-time experience , Pegasus Tap Room ( www . facebook . com / PegasusTapRoom ) serves over 100 different types of gin , as well as having 12 craft beers on tap .
Where to stay
BUDGET Cathedral Gate Hotel ( www . cathgate . co . uk ) From £ 85 per night .
Dating back to 1438 , the historic Cathedral Gate Hotel is located in the heart of the city . The front of the hotel overlooks the ‘ Burgate ’ and the rear has spectacular views of Canterbury Cathedral . Guests who are looking for something truly original will enjoy the hotel ’ s beamed ceilings , sloping floors and crooked doors . Whilst retaining its historic features , the Cathedral Gate Hotel offers all the modern facilities the discerning modern traveller expects . The hotel also has a small library , a lounge and a bar where guests can relax after a day ’ s sightseeing .
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