Shepherd's huts near Canterbury
Discover Canterbury’s UNESCO-listed monuments and literary heritage at the heart of the Kent countryside.
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- Canterbury
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Shepherd's huts near Canterbury guide
Overview
With its cobblestone lanes, half-timbered houses, and flower-lined riverbanks, Canterbury is steeped in history. A tour of the UNESCO-listed Canterbury Cathedral is a must, followed by a stroll around the ancient city walls or a scenic cruise along the River Stour, but travel outside the city walls to find plenty of camping variety, with Kent coast and countryside within easy reach of the city. Farmers’ fields, orchards, and woodlands surround the city—park your motorhome at a peaceful caravan park, check into a beachfront holiday park, or have fun glamping in a bell tent or treehouse.
Where to go
North Sea Coast
Herne Bay and Whitstable are two of Kent’s most popular beach resorts, both less than a half-hour drive from Canterbury. Swim and sunbathe on the pretty pebble beaches, hire out a traditional painted beach hut, or tuck into Whitstable oysters at a seafront restaurant. To the west, the Isle of Sheppey is a favourite among campers, and its sandy beaches fill up with holidaymakers in the summer months.
South Coast
East of Canterbury, sea-cliff walks and windswept beaches tempt adventurers to the English Channel coast. Margate, Ramsgate, or Broadstairs beaches are surf hotspots, and further south, the White Cliffs of Dover are among the UK’s most iconic natural wonders. Laid-back Folkestone makes a picturesque choice for summer campers, with its long sandy beach, while bird-watchers flock to the nearby Romney Marshes.
Kent Downs
Just south of Canterbury, the rolling hills and farmlands of the Kent Downs AONB are responsible for Kent’s nickname: the Garden of England. Hike through ancient woodlands and wildflower meadows, take in the views from the Devil's Kneading Trough, or go cycling or horseback riding through Perry Wood. Along the way, stop for lunch at rural village pubs, enjoy wine tasting at local vineyards, and pitch your tent at quiet campsites far from the crowds.
When to go
Canterbury fills up with day-trippers in July and August—plan an early start to beat the crowds at top attractions if visiting at this time. Spring and autumn are ideal for sightseeing, with fewer crowds and mild weather. Springtime is particularly beautiful in Kent, when the bluebell woods and wildflower meadows are in full bloom. There are options for winter campers too, when Canterbury pulls out all the stops for the festive season.
Know before you go
- Canterbury has several camping and outdoors stores where you can pick up everything you need for your camping trip.
- Canterbury has public transport links to many of Kent’s towns and beaches, but it is handy to have your own transport, especially if staying at rural campsites.
- Most campsites require advance booking, and many ask for full payment upfront. Check opening dates, as some campsites close in the winter months.
- Wild camping is illegal throughout Kent.