P

eople have been making the trip to Canterbury Cathedral for hundreds of years – Chaucer even wrote a book about the place.

To make the most of your day, it’s definitely worth spending a few quid on the audio guide – there’s a lot to take in. One of the most evocative sights has to be the Martydom, where the four knights murdered poor old Thomas à Becket.

Apparently one of them struck so hard they took off the crown of his head and broke the tip of the sword in the pavement. Yikes.

However, Becket isn’t the cathedral’s only famous inhabitant. It is also the final resting place of the Black Prince, and down in the 11th-century crypt you’ll find ancient graffiti bearing witness to a whole host of other characters.

Of course, there’s more to this city than just the cathedral. The narrow and half-timber Medieval houses are steeped in history.

How about hopping on one of Canterbury Punting Co.’s historical boat tours, where a well-versed guide will punt you along the River Stour past sights including Greyfriars (the oldest Franciscan chapel in England), the Marlow Theatre and the Dominican Priories.

A relaxing way to soak up the history – just don’t rock the boat…