Canterbury: Private 2hr Walking Tour With a Blue Badge Guide

Exploring the rich history of Canterbury has never been easier. This private two-hour walking tour, led by an expert Blue Badge Guide, offers a personalized journey through the city’s ancient landmarks and significant events. From its Celtic roots to the notorious murder of Thomas Becket, the guide’s engaging narratives bring the past to life in a comfortable and accessible setting. Whether you’re a history buff or simply curious about Canterbury’s heritage, this customizable tour promises an enlightening experience.

Key Points

• Explore Canterbury’s ancient history and landmarks with a private, two-hour walking tour led by an expert Blue Badge Guide.
• Enjoy a customizable itinerary covering significant events, from Celtic roots to the murder of Thomas Becket.
• Benefit from flexible booking options, including a "reserve now & pay later" policy and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Suitable for groups of up to 16 people, providing a personalized experience tailored to guest interests.
• Tour primarily traverses flat terrain, with some uneven cobbled areas, making it mostly accessible for individuals with mobility needs.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Canterbury Walking Tour offers a private, two-hour exploration of the historic city with an expert Blue Badge Guide. Priced from $292.58 per group (up to 15 people), the tour caters to a maximum of 16 guests.

Available in English and French, it typically begins at The Buttermarket within the Canterbury city walls. The tour highlights ancient landmarks and key historical events, with a customizable itinerary to suit your interests.

Please note the tour doesn’t include entry to the Cathedral or St Augustine’s Abbey, and comfortable shoes and rain gear are recommended.

Booking Information

How does one go about booking the Canterbury Walking Tour?

Booking is easy and flexible. There’s a "reserve now & pay later" option available. Plus, visitors enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

To check availability and select a starting time, simply visit the tour’s website. The tour accommodates groups of up to 16 people, so it’s great for families or small parties.

Tour Highlights

Visitors on the Canterbury Walking Tour can expect an in-depth exploration of the city’s ancient history.

The tour focuses on significant landmarks and their historical context, providing detailed explanations of major events. Guests can customize the itinerary based on their interests, whether it’s learning about the city’s Celtic roots, the Roman invasion, or the murder of Thomas Becket.

The knowledgeable Blue Badge Guide brings these stories to life, offering a unique and immersive experience.

With a maximum group size of 16 people, the tour ensures a personalized and engaging exploration of Canterbury’s rich heritage.

Historical Significance

Canterbury traces its roots back to the Celtic Tribe known as the Cantiaci, who inhabited the area prior to the Roman invasion in the 1st Century AD. The Romans established the city as Durovernum Cantiacorum, a key settlement. Later, in 597AD, the arrival of papal emissary Augustine marked a significant event. In 1170, the murder of Thomas Becket further shaped the city’s history. The Dissolution of the Monasteries by King Henry VIII and the bombings during World War II were also pivotal moments.

| Key Historical Events | Year |

| — | — |

| Arrival of Papal emissary Augustine | 597AD |

| Murder of Thomas Becket | 1170 |

| Dissolution of Monasteries by King Henry VIII | – |

| Bombings during World War II | – |

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Accessibility and Additional Information

The Canterbury walking tour primarily traverses flat terrain, though it includes some uneven cobbled areas.

The tour is mostly accessible for those with mobility needs. Comfortable shoes are recommended, as is bringing rain gear in case of inclement weather.

While the tour doesn’t include entry to the Cathedral or St. Augustine’s Abbey, visitors can purchase separate tickets to explore these historic sites.

Please note that the itinerary is subject to change based on the interests and needs of the group.

City Tracing Back to Celtic Tribe

Though dating back to the Celtic Tribe known as the Cantiaci, Canterbury’s origins can be traced to the Roman invasion of the 1st century AD.

The Romans established the city as Durovernum Cantiacorum, a strategic settlement along the Watling Street.

Over the centuries, Canterbury has witnessed many pivotal historical events, from the arrival of Papal emissary Augustine in 597AD to the dissolution of monasteries by King Henry VIII.

Despite the ravages of wars and invasions, the city remains a testament to its rich cultural heritage, inviting visitors to explore its ancient wonders.

Roman Invasion and Establishment of Durovernum Cantiacorum

When the Romans invaded in the 1st century AD, they established the city as Durovernum Cantiacorum, a strategic settlement along the Watling Street.

The Romans erected defensive walls, built roads, and constructed public baths and temples. Durovernum Cantiacorum became an important commercial hub, thriving on trade and manufacturing.

The city’s prosperity attracted settlers from across the Roman Empire. Over time, Durovernum Cantiacorum grew into a bustling urban center, playing a significant role in the region’s administration and commerce.

This Roman legacy can still be seen in Canterbury’s historic architecture and infrastructure.

Significant Historical Events

Over the centuries, Canterbury has witnessed many significant historical events that have shaped its rich cultural heritage. These include:

• The arrival of Papal emissary Augustine in 597AD, who established Canterbury as the seat of the Archbishop of Canterbury and the spiritual capital of England.

• The brutal murder of Thomas Becket, the Archbishop of Canterbury, in 1170 by knights loyal to King Henry II, which sparked international outrage and pilgrimages to the city.

• The Dissolution of the Monasteries by King Henry VIII in the 16th century, leading to the destruction of several historic religious sites.

• The bombings during World War II, which devastated parts of the city but also uncovered important archaeological findings.

• The city’s roots tracing back to the Celtic Cantiaci tribe, showcasing its ancient origins.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Book Private Tours for Groups Larger Than 16 People?

Private tours can generally accommodate groups larger than 16 people, though the maximum group size for this specific tour is 16. Interested parties should check with the tour provider for availability and pricing for larger groups.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?

The tour does not offer any discounts for seniors or students. The price is a flat rate of $292.58 per group, up to 15 people, regardless of age or student status.

Can the Tour Be Extended Beyond the 2-Hour Duration?

The tour can be extended beyond the 2-hour duration, but this would incur an additional fee. Guests should inquire about extended tour options and pricing when booking to ensure their desired length is accommodated.

Are There Any Opportunities to Interact With Local Canterbury Residents?

There may be opportunities to interact with local Canterbury residents, depending on the guide and tour itinerary. Some tours may include visits to local shops, pubs, or community centers where visitors can engage with the locals.

What Types of Transportation Are Available to Reach the Starting Point?

Visitors can reach the tour’s starting point within Canterbury’s city walls via various transportation options, including walking, taxi, bus, or train. The tour guide typically meets guests at The Buttermarket, a convenient central location.

The Sum Up

Canterbury’s rich history comes alive on this private walking tour led by an expert Blue Badge Guide. Enjoy the city’s ancient landmarks and significant events, from its Celtic roots to the infamous murder of Thomas Becket. Enjoy a personalized exploration that brings the past to life in a comfortable and accessible setting, perfect for groups of up to 16 people.

You can check availability for your dates here: