Lords of the Ring: A Self-Guided Canterbury City Walls Tour

Walking the walls that encircle Canterbury is one of the most exciting historical experiences in England. Attacked on at least seven occasions by invaders, from the Danes to the Nazis, the walls have been used to protect residents for over 1,700 years. On this self-guided walking tour, you'll follow Canterbury‘s historic city walls and dive into the city‘s story of violence, cruelty, fire, and destruction – but also extraordinary hope and progress. You‘ll discover the gruesome fate of Archbishop Simon Sudbury, who paid for the wall with his head. I‘ll show you the statues of King Ethelbert and Queen Bertha, who famously converted pagan England to Roman Christianity. You‘ll also hear about the Canterbury Blitz of 1942, when German bombers devastated the medieval city. The tour ends at the Westgate Bridge where you‘ll see the enigmatic Alluvia, the haunting underwater sculpture inspired by Millais‘ Ophelia and linked to Judge Sir James Hales‘ 1554 suicide.

1. 1

   Lady Wootton's Green

   Pass by

   You’ll pass by Lady Wootton’s Green, a peaceful public green space near Canterbury Cathedral, offering open lawns and benches beneath mature trees. Any costs related to visiting the area are not covered in this tour.

2. 2

   Stop 2

   Pass by

   You’ll pass by Abbott’s Mill Weir, a picturesque spot along the River Stour where the flowing water creates a small cascade beside the historic mill. Any costs related to visiting the area are not covered in this tour.

3. 3

   Lady Wootton's Green

   Pass by

   You’ll pass by Lady Wootton's Green, a peaceful public green space near Canterbury Cathedral, offering open lawns and shaded seating areas. Any costs related to visiting the area are not covered in this tour.

4. 4

   Stop 4

   Pass by

   You’ll pass by St Augustine's Abbey, the atmospheric ruins of a former Benedictine monastery founded in the 500s and part of Canterbury’s UNESCO World Heritage Site. Please note that admission to the abbey is not included in this tour.

5. 5

   Canterbury City Walls

   Pass by

   You’ll walk alongside the Canterbury City Wall, one of the best-preserved medieval city walls in England, with surviving towers and sections tracing the city’s historic boundary. Any costs related to visiting the area are not covered in this tour.

6. 6

   Stop 6

   Pass by

   You’ll pass by Canterbury Castle, the ruins of a Norman stone keep built shortly after the Battle of 1066. Please note that admission to the castle is not included in this tour.

• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.