After a TikToker shared a video of a ‘beautiful’ city that’s ‘straight out of a fairy tale’, commenters were quick to say it’s a must-visit for anyone in the UK
You don’t have to jet off to distant locales to find paradise. With the cost-of-living crisis hitting hard, it’s no surprise that many people are trading their two-week holiday in sunny Spain for a staycation.
Despite our infamous weather and lack of duty-free, the UK is home to a treasure trove of hidden gems and tourist hotspots that drew a staggering 31 million visitors in 2022. Traditional favourites like Cornwall and Devon, with their pristine beaches and superior climate, are always popular, but they can get uncomfortably crowded and expensive during the summer months.
Luckily, there’s a wealth of alternatives for those wanting a week-long break without stepping on a plane. Jess, known online as Where Jess Travels, has gathered an impressive 45,000 followers thanks to her free travel guides and pre-planned itineraries.
In a recent TikTok video, the content creator extolled the virtues of the humble city of Canterbury. She said: “If you’re looking for somewhere beautiful to visit in the UK look no further than Canterbury.
“It’s most famous for the Canterbury Cathedral a UNESCO World Heritage site which sits at the centre of English history.”
Children aged 17 and under, as well as full-time students in Kent’s only city, can explore the magnificent Cathedral free of charge, KentLive reports.
Adult tickets are £17, and if you’re an English Heritage member, you’re in luck, as you can snap up a 20% reduction. The cathedral, a Norman masterpiece, is famous for its medieval stained glass, expansive library, and is a bustling hub for regular worship, concerts and a variety of events and exhibitions.
Jess said: “In the middle of the city, you’ll find one of the most beautiful places in England: Westgate Gardens. In summer, the flowers are in full bloom and it looks like something from a storybook.
“This scene in particular has been made pretty famous on social media, but it’s even more beautiful in real life.”
The Westgate Gardens span 4.5 hectares, offering visitors a serene spot that doubles as a majestic medieval backdrop at the heart of the gardens ideal for those Instagram-worthy picnics with family or friends.
For history buffs eager to uncover the city’s past, there’s the option to embark on a personal guided walking tour with prices starting from £120 for groups of up to ten. Alternatively, take a leisurely boat trip down the river.
You shouldn’t miss other highlights like The Parrot, Canterbury’s eldest alehouse dating back to the 1600s, the tranquillity of Blean Woods Nature Reserve or the fresh local produce at the Goods Shed farmer’s market.
Social media users have been gushing over this gem of a destination, with many marking their calendars for a visit. One thrilled user on the comment thread said: “Wow Canterbury is gorgeous! “.
Another said: “It looks like a fairy tale! ” A third said: “It looks like the set for enchanted.”
With two train stations, Canterbury is a breeze to reach from anywhere in Kent and further afield. Those journeying from London can snag tickets for £12.90 – but be aware, you’ll fork out more if you’re travelling down from the North.
By car, it’s a quick trip too, just over two hours on the A2 from the capital. How about a stay at the Holiday Inn Express?
For a weekend visit, which includes breakfast and room for two adults and two children under 14, from Friday, November 8 to Monday, November 11, you’ll need to shell out £235. Alternatively, you can secure an entire Airbnb home for £322, offering savings on dining out with a kitchen at your disposal – but the earliest this one would be available would be mid-January.
On a tighter budget? There are numerous caravan parks and glamping locations in and around Canterbury that would be perfect for a staycation.
